What should I look for in a solar quote?
There are numerous variables to look at in a solar quote but they all boil down to a couple key factors but the little variations can make all the difference in a long-term investment such as solar. Let’s take a look at these factors and break down what to look for in each one.
The Fundamentals of a Solar Quote
- Company – It’s always important to take an in-depth look at the company you will be dealing with such as their reputation, track record, availability, and even reviews.
- Electricity Offset – The percentage of electricity that the solar panels will cover your yearly electricity needs. This should be based on your previous 12 months of usage and ideally be as close to (or over) 100% for the maximum amount of savings.
- Savings – The quote should contain a detailed breakdown of the expected savings that you will retain usually on a monthly, yearly, and 20-year basis. This is calculated based on several factors and focuses on avoided cost in which you will avoid paying the unpredictable/rising electricity rates of your current utility company.
- Aesthetics and Placement – The type and look of the panels can vary from different racking to differing colors. More importantly, the placement of the panels should ideally be on the southern facing roof plane with a secondary placement of east and west (in the northern hemisphere).
- Options – You should be presented with several financing options so that you can choose what is right for your situation whether that’s cash, loan, or PPA/Lease. Also any other solar integrated systems such as energy storage or electric vehicle charging.
- Efficiency – The efficiency of panels can vary, with higher efficiency panels costing more but using less roof space or lower efficiency panels costing less but using more roof space. The amount of roof space will usually dictate this. The quote should also pay close attention to any shading from nearby trees, obstructions, etc.
- Warranties and Insurance – Any reputable company will provide an overview of manufacturer warranties and installer warranties on any systems installed but will vary between companies. It’s important to look for installers to be licensed, bonded and insured. Performance guarantees are also a popular warranty to make sure that systems are producing the amount of electricity they are supposed to.
All The Options You Want Baked In
Can SolarCake design me a customized solar plan?
SolarCake partnered with numerous top companies, manufacturers, and installers to offer you a quote that has the options you want, the savings you expect, and the expertise you deserve
Custom Options:
- Economical panel system (best price)
- Standard panel system (best value)
- Premium panel system (best performance/quality)
- Energy storage back up battery
- Electric vehicle charging
- Source hydro panels (produce daily drinking water)
- Solatube (solar attic fan or light)
- Smart home install (thermostat, doorbell cam, voice assistant)
- Home improvement projects (new additions, bathroom/kitchen remodel, etc)
- Other requests
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