Getting solar panels installed on your home is a big financial decision. Ideally, you should work with a local company. They can help you with the entire process, from design to quoting and inspections.
Solar Companies Utah have a strong team of experts. These professionals include installers, maintenance engineers and salespeople.
The promise of solar power is that it will save you money on your energy bill, but the initial investment can feel steep. Finding a company that offers competitive pricing and explains the math in plain language can be a challenge. To find the best solar companies, you must consider your family’s electricity usage and other factors that impact the overall cost of going solar. Fortunately, there are many tools available to help you evaluate the potential savings of each solution.
To compare the costs of different solar companies, it is important to look at multiple quotes. This will give you a good idea of how much the system will cost with and without the federal tax credit. Be sure to take into account all fees and interest rates, as these can vary from one provider to the next. It is also wise to check the reputation of the solar company on sites like ConsumerAffairs, Better Business Bureau and solar-specific forums to see what other customers are saying.
Another factor that can influence solar installation costs is the quality of the panels, inverters and other components. In general, the higher-quality equipment will have a greater upfront price tag but will last longer than cheaper options. In addition, other hidden expenses include home insurance, HOA fees, permitting and zoning requirements and monitoring services.
Small, local solar companies often have more efficient operations and closer control over their finances. This allows them to expand at a slower pace while avoiding the financial risks that can derail larger companies. For example, leveraging equity from large investors can lead to excessive debt levels that can eventually cause a bankruptcy.
It is crucial to hire a qualified solar installer with the proper certifications and licensing in your state. In most cases, this will involve setting up an LLC, obtaining contractor’s general liability insurance and acquiring any sales permits required by your state. Additionally, you should ask for references and proof of accreditation from previous clients. You should also ask for a copy of the company’s articles of organization and operating agreements, as well as its EIN (employer identification number). This will allow you to verify the company’s legal status and financial stability.
Tax Credit
If you want to save on solar installation costs, it’s important to look for companies that offer tax credits. The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is available to homeowners who purchase and install qualifying renewable energy systems on their property. The ITC can offset up to 30% of the cost of your system, depending on your tax bracket and installation date. This credit is not refundable, but it can be carried over for up to three years in case you don’t have enough of a tax liability to cash in the credit the year it’s claimed.
The ITC applies to the cost of equipment like solar panels, inverters, and batteries. It also covers installation costs and other labor-related expenses. However, it’s important to note that you can only claim the ITC if you’ve “commenced construction” of your solar power system by the end of the year in which you plan to begin operating it. This means that you must have at least a 10% deposit down by the end of the year to meet this requirement. Fortunately, most installers recommend starting the process by putting down a 10% deposit.
This credit has been extended several times, most recently with the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022. In addition to the ITC, businesses can also take advantage of a Production Tax Credit (PTC), which is a per-kilowatt-hour tax credit on electricity produced by qualifying solar systems.
Aside from the federal tax credits, many states and utilities provide additional rebates and incentives to help lower the cost of going solar. These could include property tax exemptions, sales taxes, net metering, or SREC markets. Be sure to consult with a tax professional before determining which financing option will be the best for your situation.
Homeowners can also consider a zero-down loan or solar power purchase agreement (PPA) instead of paying for their solar system outright. While these alternatives may introduce some risks, they can make solar a more affordable financial option for many homeowners. Moreover, PPAs and loans can still qualify for the federal tax credit, provided they’re purchased and installed by qualified contractors.
Customer Service
Customer service is an important factor to consider when choosing a solar company. Look for companies that have positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients. It’s also a good idea to find out what services each company offers and whether they provide the specific options you are looking for. For example, if you’re interested in a battery system, find out which solar power companies offer them. Also, it’s a good idea to choose a company that has relevant certifications and accreditations.
SolarReviews is an excellent resource for evaluating solar companies based on consumer feedback. This site uses a verification process to ensure that all reviews are legitimate. It is also a good idea to read customer ratings and reviews from other sources, such as Google and Yelp. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some companies may incentivize their customers to leave positive reviews.
Another way to evaluate solar companies is to check their BBB rating and professional certifications. A high BBB rating and professional certifications are a sign of a quality company. These credentials also help ensure that the solar company will be around for a long time and will honor their warranty agreements.
It is also important to choose a company that has a wide range of financing options. Having multiple financing options makes it easier for customers to get the solar power they need. Look for a company that offers cash payments, solar loans, and solar leases.
When comparing solar companies, look at their customer satisfaction rates, warranty coverage, and state-level availability. These factors can help you make the best decision for your home or business. Also, be sure to check out the company’s credentials, including NABCEP certification for installers and the number of years they have been in the industry.
Lastly, be sure to compare prices between solar companies. Many of these companies will compete with each other to offer the lowest prices. This competition is beneficial for consumers because it drives down costs and helps homeowners save money on their electricity bills. Be sure to take into account the total cost of ownership, including the price of the panels and installation.
Environmental Impact
As the solar industry grows, there are concerns about how the technology will impact the environment. Solar power helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. It also helps decrease air pollution from traditional energy sources such as fossil fuels. Additionally, solar power is non-invasive and doesn’t require the use of hazardous chemicals.
Despite its environmental benefits, the solar industry does have some negative effects on the environment. For example, the production of solar panels produces greenhouse gases and waste products. It also uses large amounts of water, which can be a problem in dry regions. Additionally, it can affect the surrounding ecosystems and cause land degradation.
However, the good news is that many solar companies are making strides towards a more sustainable future. Some companies have instituted a carbon offset program, while others have created recycling programs for their products. These efforts are a crucial step in reducing the solar industry’s impact on the planet.
Another important consideration is the energy cost of a solar system. While going solar will help reduce your energy costs, you’ll still need to pay for electricity from the grid. This means that you should compare the total energy cost of your solar system to the electricity prices in your area. Make sure to take into account your local solar incentives, as these can greatly lower the overall price of your system.
In addition, you should read reviews and complaints about a company before making your decision. Online reviews and complaints can give you an idea of a company’s reputation and customer satisfaction. You can also contact the Office of the Attorney General to file a complaint against a solar company.
The solar scorecard is a new ranking of 37 solar manufacturers that was created by the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition (SVTC). This scorecard evaluates manufacturers on their transparency and reporting on chemical toxicity, environmental toxics, and energy efficiency. It’s a great tool for consumers who want to find the best solar company for their needs. The top-rated solar companies in the scorecard are Yingli and SunPower.