In this guide, you’ll learn how to find a good solar installer and what questions you should ask them before installing PV. We also reveal what qualifications a reputable PV installer should have.
What is a Solar Engineer?
A solar engineer is an electrician with additional qualifications in photovoltaic and solar thermal design, installation and maintenance. He oversees the entire process from planning to procurement to completion of a solar energy system. He assesses site conditions, forecasts system output, advises on module selection and plans the project.
However, not everyone can become a solar technician. The career requires technical knowledge and completed training.
What training do solar technicians receive?
The training to become a solar technician is open to masters and skilled workers in the relevant professions. It requires specialized training as a system mechanic, plumbing, heating and air conditioning technician or energy and building technician. The craft association approves further training to become a solar technician.
What qualifications and certifications are important for solar technicians?
The craft association requires a master’s degree or proof of two years of professional experience as a skilled worker in solar technology. At the end of the course, participants must take a practical and theoretical exam. In the practical exam, you have to solve tasks in the fields of photovoltaics and solar thermal energy. The theoretical exam covers the planning and dimensioning of solar energy systems as well as general tasks related to customer advice, UPS regulations and occupational safety.
How can I find a good solar installer near me?
The following tips will help you find a good solar installer:
Get references: Ask your friends for recommendations. Always share positive experiences;
Choose local suppliers: Solar engineers in your area can respond faster to your PV system questions. This saves both time and travel expenses. In addition, local suppliers are usually smaller companies with efficient processes and faster decision-making. This means shorter and more direct lines of communication. Finally, domestic suppliers often rely on regional subcontractors, which increases costs. The more businesses involved, the higher the final cost;
Check solar technicians: Before hiring a professional company, you should check the partner you choose. Find out if the company exists. This shows how long the company has been around. An important factor to consider – old companies have more experience, which is important for craft businesses;
On-site appointments This is mandatory: Good solar installers will provide free on-site appointments before you get a quote. After the inspection, create a wiring diagram, select suitable components and calculate economics and yield. As is customary in the industry, this appointment is free of charge.
What questions should I ask my solar installer?
1. Request references
Ask for references first. If the company denies this, you should be careful. The internet is also a valuable source. Search for customer reviews on Google. Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter also provide information. Do you notice recurring patterns in reviews?
2. Ask about warranties and product and performance guarantees.
Solar systems generally require little maintenance and can run without problems for at least 25 years. However, it is important to know what to do if damage occurs.
Ask your solar company about repair and replacement services as well as product and performance warranties. Ask about warranty periods for PV panels, inverters, and battery storage systems. Also clarify who is responsible for ensuring warranty service. Note whether the product warranty covers shipping and labor for replacement products.
If you have questions about the components of your solar system, can you contact your solar installer or do you have to contact the manufacturer?
How can I contact a solar technician in an emergency?
Does the company offer a performance guarantee if the solar system does not produce the expected electricity?
Pay attention to the performance guarantee of solar panels
Over time, the performance of PV modules may degrade. A performance guarantee is a guaranteed performance that the module must still provide after a certain period of time. Typically, a performance guarantee lasts longer than the product guarantee.
However, performance guarantees are not relevant to private consumers because:
It does not prevent failure
You must send the module to a lab to claim warranty. Safety values usually apply only under certain conditions.
So do not let claims about long-term performance guarantees fool you. The warranty on the product is more important.
3. Ask subcontractors
Ask the solar installer whether he will be doing the installation himself or using subcontractors. If he is using subcontractors, ask these questions in advance:
Which tasks require the use of a subcontractor? What is the rationale for using one?
Who is the subcontractor? Where is he located?
How long has the solar installer been working with the subcontractor?
Who is responsible for protecting the installed PV system?
Is the solar company responsible for ensuring that the subcontractor complies with health and safety standards?
Does the subcontractor comply with occupational safety regulations and is it adequately insured?
4. Ask health, safety and insurance questions
Before you start work, find out if scaffolding or special ladders are required to install your solar system. Find out if work on the roof and electrical systems follows health and safety measures. Make sure the solar company is insured in case your property is damaged.
How Much Do Photovoltaic Solar Technicians Cost?
The solar installer’s costs account for 20% of the total cost of a PV system. This equates to approximately 200 to 350 EUR per installed kWp. The size of the PV system directly affects the installation costs per square meter. The larger the system, the lower the installation costs.
Can I install a photovoltaic system myself?
You can install a PV system yourself. However, a solar engineer is required for the complete installation of a PV system. Only this person is allowed to connect to the network. In addition, the law requires that a PV system must be commissioned by a solar technician.
However, there are many risks associated with self-installation:
Improper design and incorrect installation will result in performance loss. As a result, you will not get the income and returns you want;
warranty and insurance claims will expire. If damage occurs, you will be responsible for the cost;
installing a photovoltaic system without professional assistance involves significant risks, including the possibility of electric shock or fire;
the higher the requirements for roof shape, angle and roof covering, the more difficult it is to install a photovoltaic system. If you install it yourself, it may endanger your health and damage your home.
3 thoughts on “How do I find a good solar installer near me?”