How Do I Compare Solar Estimates? 

Congratulations! You’ve decided to consider the financial and environmental benefits of solar and you have begun the first steps in selecting a solar energy partner. Like many consumers, you begin by completing some preliminary online research, discussing solar with friends and neighbors, and perhaps submitting an online form for a free estimate. Once you have selected a handful of companies you want to work with, the process of determining your goals for solar and learning more about your current energy consumption begins. Once the solar companies you are working with have collected all their necessary information, you’ll have received the estimates to compare and begin your process of making an informed decision. The question which then arises is, “How to review these estimates correctly so you are comparing apples to apples?” The list below is an outline of areas to compare and should help guide you in your selection process.

Installers

Every company has a story to tell and the most important part of comparing solar estimates is knowing the companies you are working with. Solar companies range in size, scope, experience, and locality. It is important to select a company with a great reputation who stands behind their work. Consult with a solar owner in your neighborhood, read online reviews, check out their social media channels, and online portfolio, or ask for additional references. As with any major purchase, cheaper is not always better. Doing some research on the company may yield additional information which may help make your selection process easier. For more information on selecting the right solar partner, check out our other solar energy blog articles below. If you still have questions, connect with us via online chat or give us a call at (877) 357.2555.

Solar Equipment Selection

One major difference between solar estimates is often the equipment being used in your project. First, confirm the solar modules (aka solar panels) are rated as Tier 1 modules. Tier 1 solar modules have the best industry warranties, maintain high energy production ratings, and are manufactured with quality parts.

Second, ensure the inverter(s) (and optimizers if used) are comparable in both type, capabilities, and brand. There are string inverters and microinverters manufactured by dozens of companies with varying functionality, manufacturing quality, and warranties. Completing some additional research on the brand (i.e SolarEdge, Enphase, Homiles, Fronius, etc.) and their equipment warranty is key to accurately comparing differences in equipment across estimates.

Third, compare the type of mounting (aka racking) necessary for the proper installation of your solar array. A solar array installed on your roof or ground will have racking which is used as the framework for mounting the panels on top of. If your array will be installed on your roof, consider the quality of the flashing being used to prevent water intrusion. The flashing is used as the foundation on which the racking is mounted.

If you are having a solar array installed on the ground, it is important to consider the type of posts being used for mounting the racking framework. Eagle Point Solar uses galvanized steel I-beams in 14 ½’ lengths. This provides increased strength and durability designed to last for generations. Eagle Point Solar chooses not to estimate or install cheaper, flimsy aluminum or steel poles for the foundation of a ground array.

Lastly, if you are unsure of which equipment is best, don’t be afraid to ask the solar company for additional details on the type of equipment being estimated or do some further online research. Each solar provider should have a spec sheet available on each type of equipment along with manufacturer warranty details.

Solar Energy System Design & Metrics

Behind a quality solar estimate, there should be extensive calculations used to determine your system size, understanding of your utility policy, and a myriad of other factors. Review your estimates to be certain the sizing of your array is comparable. Not all solar companies use the same data or metrics in determining the size, placement, production projections, or design of your solar array. Offsetting your existing energy consumption, calculating shading, reviewing local historical weather data, and determining azimuth are just a few important design metrics needed to be taken into account.

Be wary of solar estimates which do not provide a clear picture of how your solar array was sized or do not provide adequate answers on the design, production capabilities, or in-depth understanding of your local utility solar policy when prompted by you for additional information. Too often, a solar energy system can be oversized, causing the owner to pay for a larger array than they need or a utility rejects connecting it to the grid because it doesn’t meet their solar policy sizing requirements. A system can also be undersized which often leads to installing additional panels at a later date to further offset purchasing additional power from your utility.

Financing

Solar financing has come a long way in recent years and consumers now have more financing options than ever before. Comparing solar estimate prices, financing terms, and loan rates can be the easiest part. An all-cash purchase will often provide a greater return on your investment versus financing. However, new lending programs with flexible terms typically will have a lower monthly payment than your existing electric bill, saving you money on day one. Be sure to compare payment criteria, loan rates and term lengths to help you choose the best financing option for your solar array purchase.

In Conclusion

Doing some research on the company, equipment, design, engineering and financing may yield additional information which may help make your selection process easier. For more information on selecting the right solar partner, check out our other solar energy blog articles below. If you still have questions, connect with us via online chat or give us a call at (877) 357.2555.

• National Solar Installers vs. Local Solar Installers

• What is NABCEP? Why is it Important?

• A Reputable Solar Company: How Do You Find Yours?