What to look for in a solar installer

Solar energy is a clean, renewable, and affordable source of power that can help you reduce your electricity bills and your carbon footprint.

However, installing a solar system in your home or business is not a simple task. You need to find a reliable, professional, and experienced solar installer who can provide you with the best service and products. Here are some tips on how to choose the right solar installer.

Reputation

One of the first things to consider when looking for a solar installer is their reputation. You want to hire a company that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality solar installations and satisfied customers. You can check their reputation by:

Searching for online reviews on Google, Facebook, Hellopeter, and other platforms. Read what previous customers have to say about their experience, service, and products.
Asking for references and testimonials from past clients. Contact them and ask about their satisfaction, performance, and savings.
Checking their background and history. How long have they been in business? How many installations have they completed? What certifications and accreditations do they have?

Certification and accreditation

Ensure that the solar power installer you choose is properly certified and accredited. In South Africa, the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) and the South African Renewable Energy Council (SAREC) provide certifications and accreditations to reputable solar installers. These certifications indicate that the installer meets industry standards and has the necessary expertise to handle solar installations.

Make sure your installer is certified to issue a PV GreenCard after your installation. Only installers who have received certification from SAPVIA have the authority to issue the PV GreenCard for your new solar power installation.

A PV GreenCard serves as a comprehensive report that installation professionals complete upon finalizing the setup process and transferring the finished product to you – the home or business owner. It provides an in-depth breakdown of the system, including the specific panels and inverters utilized, the system’s capacity, the installation process, and testing details, along with additional valuable information.

Suppliers

Another important factor to consider is the suppliers and products that the solar installer uses. You want to ensure that the solar system you install is of high-quality, durable, and efficient. You can check the suppliers and products by:

Researching the brands and models of the solar panels, inverters, batteries, and other components that the installer offers. Compare their specifications, warranties, and guarantees with other options in the market.
Asking for proof of origin and authenticity of the products. Beware of counterfeit or substandard products that may not perform as expected or may pose safety risks.
Requesting a simulation or feasibility study of the solar system for your home or business. The installer should be able to provide you with an estimate of the electricity production, savings, and payback period based on your location, consumption, and system size.

Customer experience

The last thing to consider is the customer experience that the solar installer provides. You want to hire a company that is responsive, helpful, and transparent throughout the installation process and beyond. You can check the customer experience by:

Evaluating their communication and service skills. How quickly and professionally do they respond to your queries and requests? How well do they explain the installation process, costs, and benefits?
Assessing their technical expertise and know-how. How knowledgeable and skilled are they in designing, installing, and maintaining solar systems? How do they handle any issues or challenges that may arise?
Reviewing their post-installation service and support. Do they offer any after-sales service or maintenance contracts? How do they deal with any repairs, replacements, or warranty claims?

Choosing the right solar installer is a crucial step in your solar journey. By following these tips, you can find a reputable, qualified, and experienced solar installer who can provide you with the best solar system for your needs and budget.

The information contained in this article is of a general nature and intended for information purposes only.