Looking for the best “solar companies near me?” When it comes to your home’s energy consumption, you want to know that everything you’re paying for is saving you money. If your utility bills are making you feel like you’re working for the electric companies, I’ve found the solution: switching to solar electricity and finding the best “solar companies near me.”
How to Find the Best Solar Companies Near Me
In the past 10 years, solar energy has seen a huge growth in popularity and technological advancements. Solar panels are becoming more popular due to their eco-friendly features. Solar systems are becoming more popular in cities all over the world due to their lower installation costs and rising value thanks to government incentives.
There are many options available to families who want to install solar power now. It can be difficult to distinguish between different providers. Calling the best local solar companies like ESD Solar will often help you make the right decision for your home.
You may find many service providers within your locality, some with a solid reputation. It’s up to you to ask questions about the energy consumption, the design of your roof or garden, as well as the long-term and short-term costs. You can find the best solar panel provider close to you by following these easy steps.
1. Learn About the Credits and Costs
The Center for Sustainable Energy states that the cost of a solar electric panel is determined in dollars per watt. A residential system costs $3-$5 per watt. This means that a 5-kW residential system would cost $15,000-$25,000 before tax credits or incentives.
The federal solar tax credits and any other incentives are of great value. The Homeowner’s Guide to Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics states that a tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in income tax due. A $1,000 federal tax credit will reduce your federal income taxes by $1,000. The federal residential solar energy credit is a percentage of the price of a solar PV system. The system must be in operation during the tax year, and it must generate electricity for a residence in the United States.
ESD Solar has all the information on solar financing and net metering. These tips and tricks are great to share with a solar installer, but it’s best to be educated before asking a vendor for this information. These incentives can impact how you finance your installation.
The solar panels can be paid in cash or in installments. You may also take out a loan, lease, or pay off the loan. Each option requires a different level of financial investment and can have different tax consequences. You will need to decide which option is right for you. The solar installer will need to know your preferences in order to agree to your terms. Some solar installers do not accept all payment methods. Once you are familiar with the costs and credits it is time for you to look for solar companies with competitive rates and top-notch services.
2. Check Out Online Reviews
Online review sites, like Yelp!, BBB, and Google reviews can help you locate providers in your area. After narrowing down your choices, make sure you use the same websites to read customer reviews. Get insight into the customer service quality and credibility of each solar company. These stories are crucial as they provide social proof and highlight red flags.
Don’t pay attention to star ratings that don’t include narratives. Read the text instead to assess the ease of solar installation, financing experiences, and refund policies. Do not ignore customer complaints. Instead, look for the solar company’s reply. Buyers should not be surprised if the company replies rudely or worse, never at all.
3. Verify Licenses and Certifications
Ask solar contractors to present a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certificate when deciding between vendors. The NABCEP certification program is the most respected national standard. Any contractor with this accreditation is an expert in their field. Beware of many unlicensed installers out there, offering poor service and fleece customers.
You should also confirm that the installers are licensed to do any electrical or roofing work that your home requires.
4. Check their Track Record and Experience
The growing field of solar power attracts many professionals from different backgrounds. It can be difficult to find a reliable solar panel installer who has a good track record and a lot of experience. However, this is a huge advantage. It is important to ensure that your solar company doesn’t abandon your project. And, most importantly, one that will continue to help you even after your project is completed. The solar panel installation is not the most important thing. The post-solar panel installation service is also important. A solar provider should also be able to show their previous solar installations.
5. Get Multiple Quotes from Solar Companies
Different solar energy contractors have different pricing for installing solar panels. Some are more affordable than others. Every billing system is possible, but cost-per-watt is the most common and straightforward. The size of your solar system will determine how much you pay. Your solar installer should be able to set a flat rate. You can compare the best solar companies by getting multiple quotes.
Many solar companies will arrange an appointment to visit your home in order to accurately calculate the price. You can ask any remaining questions during this appointment, which includes the following:
- Are you able to get the permits my state and city require?
- Are you a solar installer near me?
- How many panels will I need based on my energy consumption?
- Is there a warranty? If so, what is it?
To ensure a competitive rate, you should get multiple quotes from as many solar installers and contact them all. It will surprise you at how different their solar quotes are. This could help you save a few thousand dollars on solar panel installation.
Going solar is an important investment in your home. You should build a strong, positive relationship with your solar contractor. After the panels have been installed, there is often a lot of work involved. It is crucial to find a reliable solar company that will provide a positive experience after the installation. It is crucial to choose a reliable solar company to provide you with accurate and complete information. The best installers will help you understand the role of solar in your home or business’s solar energy system.
Your Preferred Solar Installer, at a Competitive Price
If you are living in Florida, Texas, Ohio, Colorado, and Oklahoma, then ESD Solar is the best solar company near you! We provide solar installation services to residential and commercial clients who would like to generate their own electricity with a solar photovoltaic system. ESD Solar is a full-service solar company that provides all aspects of solar installation for your home or business including securing permits, designing the solar panel layout, and installing the system on your property.
For a FREE solar estimate, get in touch with our solar experts today!
