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Selecting Solar Professionals
Selecting Solar Professionals
Choosing a solar professional is an important decision. In recent years it has become increasingly easy to locate and contact those in the field. Tools available to help identify local professionals include the Oregon Solar Energy Industry Association, and the national Solar Energy Industry Association (which you can search for members by state).
For community-scale projects, it is common to issue a request for proposals (RFP). The RFP can be fairly broad, allowing professionals to pitch their recommended system design and specifications; or fairly specific, in order to compare bids on pre-determined project specifications.
After identifying solar professionals, or receiving proposals in response to an RFP, it is important to evaluate them as you would evaluate other types of dealers and contractors. Consider not only the system cost, but the equipment proposed, the energy production estimates, and long-term services included (service agreements, performance guarantees, and product warranties).
Professional credentials are one indication of a PV dealer’s knowledge and qualifications. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers a well-respected voluntary certification program for PV installers.
OREGON: If you are eligible to participate in incentive programs through the Energy Trust, your solar energy system will need to be installed by a company that is listed as an Energy Trust “Trade Ally.” For more information on the Energy Trust's Solar Trade Ally program click here.
