If you’re considering installing solar panels, you’ll find there are lots of options. As you’re reviewing your choices, it helps to ask these questions. You’ll be able to answer some yourself, and use the resources at right to answer the rest.
Location
- How well will my location work?
- Does my roof face the south/southwest?
- Is there minimal shade (now and in the future)?
- Will I own this property long enough to realize financial payback?
- What size system will my location support?
- What size system do I need?
Own or Lease
- Should I own the system or lease it?
- Verify financial analyses
- Get second opinions and/or multiple bids
- What are the terms of the lease or contract?
- How long will it last?
- What is covered?
- Are there penalties?
- What happens if I move?
- How are disputes resolved?
- How do I verify claims and information?
Choosing a Contractor
- How do I choose a contractor?
- Examples of past work
- Verified by third parties
- Online reviews
- At least three bids
Pricing
- Do I understand the total price of installing solar on my property?
- Do I fully understand my contract?
- What incentives and tax credits will I qualify for?
- Energy Trust incentives
- State tax credits
- Federal tax credits
- Can I install solar myself to save money?
- What codes and operation requirements do need to comply with?
- Will I still qualify for incentives and tax credits?
- How do I compare my current energy costs with what they will be if I install solar?
- How many bills will I have?
- What is Net Metering and how does it impact my costs?
- How much of my electricity use can I offset with Net Metering?
After Installation
- How do I maintain a solar energy system?
- Are there maintenance costs?
- How long will my system last?
- Panels
- Inverters