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With the new rollout of massive federal tax credits, state
subsidiary programs and net metering, going solar makes sense.
So, how do you pick an installer for your system?
Install My System
As with any major part of your home, installation of a solar
platform should be done by a professional. Many of the tax
credit and rebate programs require professional installation and
failure to do so can lead to the loss of the benefits. In short,
there are practical and economic reasons to get it done right.
While a solar platform is necessarily a form of electrical
generation, you shouldn't assume every electrician knows how to
install one. In truth, most do not. Instead, you can visit a
site like solarcompanies.com to find businesses in your state,
search on the web or simply pull out the phone book. In states
such as California, installers are plentiful while other
locations may require a bit of hunting.
Once you've located potential installers, make sure to ask some
questions. Do not pick the lowest price or first one you find.
Use your common sense and ask the same questions you would to
any contractor installing something on your home.
The first question to ask is whether the installer has, in fact,
installed systems before, how often and for how many years? You
do not want a neophyte handling your installation. Installation
experience is vital because certain elements of solar systems
are very unique, particularly if you are tying into a grid
system for a utility company. If you are tying in, make sure the
installer has experience doing such installations, not just
putting up solar panels.
The second question to ask is whether the installing company is
licensed. Most solar installers will be required to have an
electrician's license. Contacting the state electrical board to
ask about the installer is a wise move. For some state rebates,
you may also have to use an installer that has a solar
contractor specialty license. Again, the state electrical board
should be able to help you out with this.
This may all sound a bit confusing, so let's turn to the easiest
method for finding installers. When in doubt, contact the
manufacturer of your system. Many manufacturers have a list of
approved installers. If not, they typically can make
recommendations regarding various entities that handle the job
for you.
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