Choosing The Right Companies to Give a Quote on Solar Panels

The government’s subsidy for solar panels and solar PV systems has brought the cowboys out of the woodwork again. The same operators who went into overdrive to sell thermal windows 15 years ago have come out in force to profit from the sudden market for solar panels. They’re cluttering your Inbox with offers of free consultations to determine if your home is a good fit for solar panels and knocking up and down your street asking to speak with the man of the house. How do you decide which companies you ask to give you a quote on a solar PV system? These suggestions and tips can help you make a decision about which companies you can trust to give you a real quote on solar panels and installation.

Ignore the door-knockers.  Legitimate installers of solar PV systems don’t need to drum up business by knocking on doors up and down the street. They have plenty of customers ringing them up and making appointments without resorting to these shady business tactics. If you let one of these shady characters into your home, you could be opening yourself to anything from high-pressure sales tactics to a home burglary.

Choose companies that are accredited through the Microgeneration Certification Scheme. MCS is an internationally recognized quality assurance scheme that regulates installers and products that generate electricity. When you choose a company that is MCS certified, you can be sure that both the company and the solar panels they install have committed to reaching the high standards required for accreditation. In addition, you’ll only be eligible to participate in the feed-in tariff scheme – which pays you for the electricity your solar PV system generates – if your system was installed by an MCS-certified installer.

Find a solar panels Installer through the MCS Website.  MCS has an installer search page on its website where you can search for solar PV installers in your area. There are thousands listed, so you’ll still have to narrow your search down through other means, but it’s a good starting point.

Check the company website.  The company website is a starting point to learning about the solar installer. It should provide you with the basic information you need to book an appointment as well as background information on what to expect from a solar installation consultation and appointment. Some will also post testimonials from satisfied customers, which may be nice to read but should be taken with a grain of salt, especially if they’re posted by the company rather than via a feedback tool that allows customers to post their own reviews.

Ask for references.  Ring up the company, prepared with a list of questions to which you want answers. A legitimate company will take all the time you need to answer your questions and make sure you understand the responses. If you’re happy with the conversation, ask for references from former customers – most companies have at least a few people who will discuss their experience with the company with prospective customers.

At the end of all that, you’ll have come down to two or three installers who sound legitimate, friendly and knowledgeable. Make appointments with them for a consultation to determine which can offer you the best quote on installing solar panels on your property.