subject: What You Should Know About Solar Companies [print this page] What You Should Know About Solar Companies
Texas is a state with tremendous solar resources. The potential for solar energy technology there is immense. To ensure that you protect yourself as a consumer, it is prudent to research local companies to determine which will be best for your specific needs. Search the web for local companies and take note of what they offer. One great place to find contractors is the Texas Renewable Energy Industry Association website (treia.org).
While at these sites you will find a list of the various Texas solar contractors who install PV systems in your area. There are some things to consider whenever you are looking at these Texas solar power companies. Make sure that any companies you work with have been in business for a minimum of 2 years. With all of the changes that have recently occurred within this industry, it is important to know that you are doing business with competent professionals.
Be sure that the Texas solar installers you interview carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance. This will protect both parties if a worker gets hurt while at your home, or should something go wrong with the system. Insist on seeing the contractors permit. A permit to install a solar system will protect both you and your system, is usually free and very easy to obtain.
The solar companies that you work with also needs to have experience installing the type of system that you want to purchase. There should be at least one Master Electrician working for the company. The most important certifications include NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) and the state's Solar Energy Industry Association. Any Texas solar companies with these certifications will be highly experienced, ethical and qualified businesses.
Once you have found a selection of Texas solar power companies that meet these requirements, set up an appointment with each of them. This is your opportunity to specify what equipment you want them to use, or to tell them how you want the work to be carried out. Be careful if you specify the equipment you want used, as you will need to know with certainty what you are talking about. Otherwise you would be better off simply telling them what percentage of your power consumption you are comfortable. Either way, make sure that you know what you want so that you are prepared to talk to the contractors when they are there to give you an estimate.
When you decide which company you wish to retain, read over the contract carefully before signing it. Any quality Texas solar installers will be high in demand, and have a few months wait list. Do not let this upset you, instead rest assured that you have chosen a good company to do your work for you.
