Question 1

How long does it take to get solar installed?

Accepted Answer

Generally, from contract signing to install complete is 4-5 weeks. Some of this will depend on the city/county permit.

Question 2

How long does the actual install take place?

Accepted Answer

Most jobs are installed in 1-2 days, depending on the size. Even if it is a small job (<6.0kW), we like to plan on 2 days just to be safe. Bigger jobs (> 15kW) can take 3 or more days.

Question 3

How much for city permits and plans and all that municipal stuff?

Accepted Answer

It varies by city and county. However, all permits, plan sets, and structural assessments (if required) are included in our price. So you don't need to worry about the cost. We take care of it.

Question 4

Do you offer financing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer financing with competitive rates.

Question 5

Do you install backup batteries?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we install backup batteries. We are certified with most battery manufacturers including Tesla and EnPhase.

Question 6

Do you install generators?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are Generac dealers.

Question 7

Do you do commercial jobs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do commercial jobs of any size.

Question 8

Isn't there a lot of paperwork that needs to be done?

Accepted Answer

We handle all of the paperwork with the city/county and with the power company. At various points between contract signing and installation, you will have to read and sign various documents, and other documents you will need to review and approve.

Question 9

Do I really need to get 3 bids?

Accepted Answer

No, however . . . we always recommend customers get 3 bids. We even tell our friends and family members who are going solar to get 3 bids. There are a number of reasons to get multiple bids, including:
(1) Price.
(2) Knowledge and Experience.
(3) Design.
 
You may want to use the following bid comparison 
document
 from PG&E to help you keep track of the different bids.
 
You will get a feel for the different salespersons, and whether they have your best interests at heart, and whether they are knowledgable and experienced enough to convey your solar needs to the person designing your system. At Solar Solutions Company, the salesperson is the same person that designs your system, and oversees your installation.
 
You may also decide you prefer a specific contractor, but like a different design and/or price better. This can be a discussion with your preferred contractor to see if they can do the different design or match the other price.

Question 10

Are there rebates and tax incentives for going solar?

Accepted Answer

The laws are constantly changing, and not everyone is eligible, so you need to consult your tax professional.

Question 11

Are there rebates and tax incentives for businesses installing solar?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tax credit and tax deductions. The laws are constantly changing and not all businesses may be eligible, so you need to talk to your business tax professional.

Question 12

Are there rebates and tax incentives for installing a battery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are tax credit and some rebates available. The laws are constantly changing, so you need to consult with your tax professional about tax credits. For rebates, these are in constant flux due to money on some programs running out, so while some rebates are available, we don't make any guarantees and we won't have a good estimate until near contract signing. Not all homeowners/business are eligible for rebates, while other homeowners who have medical requirements or well water pumps may be eligible for bigger than normal rebates.

Question 13

Once the install is complete, can I turn the system on right away?

Accepted Answer

No. Once the install is complete, we get the permit signed off by the city, generally the next day. After we have the final permit signed, we send that to the power company. You will receive a PTO (permission to operate) at which point you can turn the system on. Duration of time required to receive a PTO varies by utility, and can take a couple weeks. We've also had an SCE PTO in hand less than 24 hours after the permit was signed off by the city.

Question 14

Do you offer PACE/HERO financing?

Accepted Answer

Yes.

Question 15

Do you offer solar leasing?

Accepted Answer