What to collect before you ask for quotes
Gathering a few facts first makes quotes easier to compare. Pull 12 months of electric bills so installers can size a system to your actual use. Note your roof age, material, pitch and any shading from trees or nearby buildings. Decide whether you want a battery or just solar panels. Think about how you want to pay — cash, loan, or a contract — and whether you prefer local installers or national companies like Sunrun, Freedom Forever or Palmetto Solar. Having this information up front speeds quoting and reduces guesswork.
How to compare quotes like a homeowner
Ask for written proposals that use the same assumptions: system size in kilowatts, estimated annual production, and any incentives or tax credits they included. Look beyond price per watt — compare the total project cost, what equipment is included (panel and inverter brands), and how production was modeled. Check whether the quote includes permits, interconnection paperwork, roof work, and inspections. Note financing details and what fees or escalators apply. Finally, compare timelines and who will handle installation and follow‑up service. Clear, comparable line items help you see real differences between bids.
Key questions to ask each installer
Treat every quote like an interview. Ask: How did you estimate annual energy production, and can you show the assumptions? Which panel and inverter models will you use, and why? Who performs the actual installation — your crews or subcontractors — and can you share local references? Who handles permits, inspections and paperwork for incentives? What are the project milestones and expected completion date? Ask where responsibilities lie if there’s a roof leak or a production shortfall. These questions reveal how detailed the proposal is and how reliable the installer might be.
How to organize quotes and decide what matters
Create a simple comparison table with columns for total cost, system size, estimated annual kWh, equipment brands, warranty coverage, financing type, and installation timeline. Flag items that differ across bids, such as whether batteries are included or whether the installer will perform roof repairs. Watch for three common tradeoffs: lower upfront price may come with lower-grade equipment or less experienced crews; shorter timelines can mean higher cost; and leases or power‑purchase agreements handle maintenance differently than purchasing. Use the table to prioritize what matters most to you — reliability, long-term performance, or short-term price — then follow up with the installer for clarification on anything unclear.