Installers of installers of solar panels with customers to design, sell, finance and install a residential or commercial solar energy system. They often must be able to explain complex topics in a way that is easy for laypeople to understand. This is especially true when assisting business owners looking to save on their electricity bills and qualify for tax breaks.

Many solar companies are vertically integrated, which means that they are able to provide customers with a full suite of products and services, from manufacturing to installation. This can help simplify the process for homeowners, who can get quotes from multiple installers on one platform and select a package that fits their needs.

Bringing Sunshine Home: The Role of Installers in the Solar Panel Journey

It is important for solar professionals to be able to assess each home’s roof and surrounding area before recommending the type of system that will best fit the customer’s energy goals. They must also be able to determine whether the existing roof will support the chosen system or if it will require replacement prior to installation. Solar installers are also responsible for helping the homeowner obtain any necessary permits and arranging post-installation inspections with local building departments. Depending on state regulations, they may also be required to educate customers about solar renewable energy credits (SRECs), which are tradable certificates that solar owners can keep or sell to their utility through an SREC broker.

When selecting a solar installer, it is recommended to choose one who has been in the industry for a long time and can offer references from previous customers. It is also helpful to find out whether they are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).