Solar energy is one of the most cost-effective and eco-friendly ways to fulfil the rising demand for sustainable energy solutions. Installing solar panels is a long-term investment. So, before installation, you should be more selective with choosing the right installer. The installation process of a solar panel is a bit complex. That’s why you will need a professional and experienced installer. Here, you will get some major tips on how to choose a solar installer having sufficient knowledge.

Top 6 Tips to Choose a Solar Panel Company

To install a rooftop solar system, you will need to shortlist the right solar company that will take care of your total installation process and lifetime maintenance of the panels. Here are some major tips which will help you on how to pick a solar panel company.

Thorough Research and Recognise your Requirement

Each consumer has his/her own solar energy requirements and needs to recognise one's consumption patterns. So, the first step to picking a registered solar company is to do thorough research and understand your required system size and the best-needed technology for the particular system. You can take reference of the registered vendors under the corresponding state’s DISCOMs from the empanelled vendors’ list present on the portal of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. By installing a solar system with DISCOM registered vendors, you will be eligible to apply for the solar panel installation subsidy.

Check Certifications and Expertise

After finding the right solar installer, one should check the company's holding certifications and licence provided by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). An experienced solar company should have proper knowledge of the best technology and obstacles that may come during solar panel installation.

Compare Cost and Financing Options

You must compare the overall cost and financing options provided by the installer. The overall costs include the charge of equipment, installations and any other additional fees. Always ask your installer about the fee structure to get a solar quotation and compare it with other trustworthy vendors. But don’t go with a lower price every time. Think about the quality and services which are being provided because solar panel installation is a long-run investment.

Look for Recommendations and Reviews

There are numerous registered solar companies that provide rooftop solar installations. It is difficult to pick the most reliable one according to your requirements. So, always gather information about the companies from trusted sources. This information can give you a thorough understanding of the company. You can read reviews and testimonials too.

Seek Transparency

Make sure that there is a transparent relationship between you and your solar installer. Your installer must clear your every confusion regarding installation. He/she should inform you about the modules and technologies which will be used in the installation process. Make sure the modules are listed in the ALMM list (Approved List of Models and Manufacturers). Ask about the latest technology which may be the TOPCon bifacial or Mono-PERC half-cut bifacial (M10). You can ask your provider whether they provide AMCs or not which will be beneficial for you.

Ask for the Details of the Subsidy Option

If in your residence, the average electricity consumption ranges between 0-150, 150-300 and above 300 units, then the capacity of the solar plant will be between 1 kW, 2 kW and 3 kW. For a 1 KW solar system, you will get a subsidy of Rs 30,000, for a 2 KW system, you will get a subsidy of Rs 60,000 and for 3 KW or above 3 KW system, you will get Rs 78,000 as a subsidy from the Govt of India. If your solar installer is providing all the above-mentioned details, then you can opt for that particular solar installer. This subsidy structure is the same for any state of India. For example, solar subsidy in West Bengal will follow the above-mentioned rules.

Conclusion

Choosing the best solar installer is a difficult task. Besides the above-mentioned tips, you should visit the previous installation places of the installer to get more confirmation, check the environmental commitment of the provider and many more. For moving forward to a greener and more sustainable future, don't forget to check the above-mentioned tips on how to choose a solar installer which will give you long-term benefits.