The solar systems you choose is only as good as the company that supplies and install it so there is a lot of ground to cover before you can ultimately begin to enjoy all the benefits of clean energy.
A few well placed questions should help you confirm that you have the right solar company and that your expectations are met over the long term. Below are a few crucial areas you should discuss with your solar provider before work can begin on your property.
Projected Long-Term Savings
Solar energy is clean and therefore good for the environment. Even noble citizens want to see some form of ROI other than feeling good about reducing one's carbon footprint.
Ask the solar company how much you can expect to save on utilities in the coming 20 years. This value amount helps you quantify how much your investment is worth whether you are financing your project with a solar loan or paying cash.
Make sure that the solar company's projections are realistic. Some overzealous installers may over-estimate how much electricity rates are projected to rise in the coming years.
How Much Up-Front?
Once you have determined that you are making a sensible or even great investment, it's time to discuss money.
There are many ways to pay for your solar system including paying for everything upfront or financing with a lease/PPA agreement or a loan. Whatever you decide to do, make sure that you know exactly how much you are paying upfront.
If you are uncomfortable with the idea or paying for everything upfront to purchase the system outright, companies such as Blue-Raven Solar take care of all the upfront charges including design, sizing, installation, customization and permits and paperwork so you literally pay nothing upfront. You would of course need to have a good credit score to qualify for this kind of arrangement.
How the System Affects Property Value
Generally speaking, a home with a solar system installed is easier to sell and sees significant increase in property value. This is of course assuming that you own the system outright and have paid for everything.
If you are thinking about selling your home in the near future, you may want to consider what a solar lease or PPA agreement may mean for your property value.
Licenses and Insurance
It is your responsibility to make sure that anyone working on your property is properly licensed and insured. Ask if they have all the insurance policies and business licenses relevant in your sate and locality.
Also make sure that the solar company designs and install the system itself rather than hiring subcontractors for part of the job. It is extremely difficult to guarantee accountability and consistency when dealing with separate entities on the same project.
Warranties, Repairs and Replacements
Finally, ask about a warranty. About 25 years is what you should expect from a good solar system company. The panel system should also be insured against all kinds of common damages so you don’t find yourself stuck with a repair or replacement bill while still paying off your system.
Finally, ask about performance guarantees or what happens if the system doesn’t perform as promised once it is installed.
These are the few key areas to cover with your solar power company to ensure that you enjoy all the benefits that come with clean energy. Solar systems are now much cheaper and easer to install making this a viable energy source worth considering seriously.
