Choosing Solar Companies in Melbourne: 6 Things To Consider

Making the transition to solar is a huge choice, and it comes with a big question: which company should I choose to install my solar system and how? With so many solar businesses to choose from, the job of selecting a solar retailer and installer might be difficult. Therefore, if you're unsure where to start or feel overwhelmed by your options, refer to this below guide to find the right solar provider for you. Let’s start with the basics. 

Compile a List of Solar Providers

Comparing the solar providers is easy. You can prepare a list of solar installers around you with good customer and industry reviews. Be sure to include both local and national businesses that provide services in your state.

To begin, run a Google search for "Solar Panels Installation Victoria.” Depending on where you live, you may also want to include a few of the top five solar panel companies on your list. With a firm list of companies in hand, you can begin compiling other information from other places that you collect over the next few steps.

Consider Local vs. National Installers

A local business and a national company have different advantages. Knowing these differences will help you evaluate your provider options. As a rule of thumb, larger companies tend to be more established and can provide more comprehensive warranties. You may also be provided with more payment options and maintenance services such as panel cleaning.

On the other hand, local companies often have a better understanding of your state's rebates and county permitting requirements. As fewer customers and locations are serviced, the process can move more quickly, possibly allowing you to make an appointment for a price quote and installation sooner.

In this step, there's no right or wrong answer – just determine whether a larger or smaller company makes a difference for your needs. Make a list of which companies fit into each category in your document.

Do a Background Check of Company

Experience is typically more valuable than company size. Discover how long each company has been in business by looking at its website. Take a look at how many solar panels each company has installed, and find out what types of roofing they have successfully installed in the past.

You should also include the credentials of each company in your comparison report. Certifications are usually listed on the company's website, but if you can't find anything there, you can call the company and enquire about it. 

Check Out Reviews

All the credentials and expertise in the world won't help a firm if it doesn't treat its customers well. Going solar can be a complex lengthy process, from obtaining the necessary permissions to determining the size of your solar to filing for federal and state tax incentives. You want to work with a firm that is kind and accommodating.

Google is a good place to find reviews of products. You may find no references, or only a few, so contact the company and ask for references. The majority of companies will provide two to three references upon request.

As you look through reviews, you should take note of what kind of impression you get — this will help you remember which concerns you wish to address with the company.

Review Financing Options

Finance options for solar panels Melbourne, includes:

• Cash Payment
• Loan
• Leasing
• Power purchase agreement (PPA)

You should ask each company on your list what options they have and make a note of them. If you already know the way you would like to finance your panels, make sure any company you consider does so. In the event that you don't know which choice is best for you, look for companies that provide multiple financing options, so you can discuss your options with them. If a company on your list does not provide your preferred financing option, cross it off.

Request a Quote

Once you have compiled information for each company, put your top five choices on the list. These are the companies you need to contact if you would like a customised quote.

For accurate quotes, many companies schedule a visit to your property. During such visits, you can ask any questions still unanswered, including those listed below.

• Does your company handle city and state permits?
• How many panels will I need based on my monthly energy usage?
• Do you offer a warranty, and if so, what does it cover?
• If I wanted to continue working with you, how would I do so?

Did any of the companies stand out as a clear winner after talking to them? If so, congratulations, you have found your solar provider! If not, you may want to take into account the factors that are most important to you, such as price, customer ratings, or the level of service they offer. 

You can also contact us if you have questions or need personal guidance. Sunburn Solar is one of the solar companies in Melbourne that works tirelessly to provide the best solutions for our customers, which are cost-effective and innovative. If you found this guide helpful, please let us know your top solar providers and get in touch if you want to schedule a free consultation.