How to Find the Best Solar Contractor for Your Home
Residential solar power is an increasingly affordable way to slim
your energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the same
time.
The key to a successful installation, of course, is choosing the
right solar contractor.
A good installer will provide turnkey service, and help you take a
whole-house approach to improving your energy efficiency.
To get pricing information from a solar contractor near you,
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Remember that the best contractors facilitate the entire
installation process for you, from determining how many solar panels
you need, to getting you all the credits and rebates available on
the federal, state and local levels.
Professional and Experienced
The solar industry is constantly changing with advances in solar
technology, solar financing and solar service. Homeowners should
make sure that their contractor is up to date on all the latest
technology and financing options. There are several trade
associations and solar advocate non-profits that provide
industry-related news, information and education to solar
contractors.
A professional solar provider may be associated with organizations
such as the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), a respected
national trade association with 1,000 member companies. SEIA
partners with The Solar Foundation, a non-profit, in research and
education outreach programs. Ensuring that a solar contractor is
associated with organizations within the industry is one way to
ensure a contractor is professional and experienced. In addition, a
professional solar contractor will be happy to supply references
from other customers.
Solar Accreditation
While some states do not require certification for residential
installations, most rebate and credit incentive programs require
that a solar contractor be certified through the North American
Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) for photovoltaic
(PV) and solar thermal certification. Homeowners who wish to take
advantage of the federal incentives, in particular, should inquire
about NABCEP certification.
Clear and Thorough
A professional solar contractor will facilitate the solar
installation process from beginning to end. The service may start
with an evaluation of a homeowner’s solar power needs, including
analysis of current usage and site inspection. The contractor should
help you examine your utility bills over the past 12 months,
identify sources of inefficiency within your home, and provide an
accurate picture of just how much you can save with solar.
Flexible Services
A good solar contractor will be able to work with you to ensure that
the system is affordable through a variety of financing options, and
by determining which solar system will provide the most economic
benefit. In addition, your solar contractor should know what other
inspections may be needed by cities and utilities, as well as
paperwork required by local permit offices. Solar contractors
typically assist you in qualifying for and receiving governmental
solar rebates and tax incentives, and may even credit you with any
rebates upfront.
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