Entering into a commercial solar contract is a major step. Whatever the scope of your Idaho project, achieving the best value for the money you invest will be your goal. As such, before you sign a contract with a professional photovoltaic contractor, you’ll need to think the matter over quite carefully.
Commercial solar power projects tend to have long-term financial consequences. However, they also offer impressive energy savings and solid returns – or they can, anyway. In order for that to happen, you need to choose the right contractor.
To ensure that you get the most out of your investment, while also meeting your business needs, consider these tips before you sign a commercial solar contract.
Search for Reputable Idaho Solar Installers
Your choice of professional photovoltaic contractor can make the difference between a cost-effective commercial solar power system that functions for decades and one that is plagued with problems. So, you’ll want to find a solar company you can trust to handle your project with the proper attention and care.
How do you accomplish that?
To start, ask friends and neighbors if they know of a reputable commercial solar installer. You can also look around your local area for companies that have photovoltaic arrays, then stop by and ask who completed their project. And, of course, you can always do an online search. In any case, once you gather several names, check each contractor’s credentials. Look for the following:
- Certification by NABCEP, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners
- A license to install commercial solar power systems in the state of Idaho
- The necessary insurances to complete commercial solar projects
- Extensive experience in the design and installation of commercial PV systems
- Knowledge of PV components and a commitment to using top-quality equipment
- Warranties on commercial solar panels, inverters, racking and workmanship
- A reputation for doing exceptional work and providing stellar customer service
Get More Than One Solar Project Estimate
When you determine which professional photovoltaic contractors have what it take to complete your commercial solar project, it’s time to schedule consultations. Industry experts recommend talking to at least a few local companies before choosing one to hire, as comparing estimates helps ensure you pay a fair price.
Most solar installers in Idaho – including the team here at Nationwide Solar – offer free, no-obligation consultations. So, you have nothing to lose by meeting with more than one professional contractor.
Consultations give you the opportunity to get project estimates, of course, but they also give you the opportunity to ask questions. Some we suggest asking include:
- Is the building suited for rooftop solar installation, or would you recommend another option?
- Which solar panels and PV components do you use for commercial installations – and why?
- How much in savings and what sort of return on interest do you foresee for this solar project?
- Can you provide the names of a few clients who might be willing to discuss their experience?
- Do you have the capacity to deliver this solar project without delay? What timeframe do you anticipate?
Make Sure the Contract Covers the Scope of Work
As you consider the estimates and the answers you receive, the decision on which professional photovoltaic contractor to hire should become clear. However, that doesn’t mean you’ll be ready to sign a commercial solar contract.
Before you make that move, you’ll want to carefully review the contract the solar installer provides. Look the documents over, making sure that all of the following are accounted for within the contract:
- The general responsibilities of the contractor in completing the project
- The specific equipment for the project and the plan for PV system design
- The procedures for site control, equipment installation and grid connection
In addition, you’ll want to make sure that the commercial solar contract contains a very clear definition of what practical completion entails. In other words, when is the work considered to be finished? That might be when these tasks have been achieved:
- The commercial solar power system has been tested and is fully operational.
- Any defects or issues with the components have been identified and rectified.
- The photovoltaic array has been successfully connected to the local utility grid.
- Instruction has been provided on monitoring and maintaining the PV system.
- Warranties and documents needed to claim solar incentives have been supplied.
As you review the commercial solar contract, you’ll also need to ensure that the inclusions and exclusions are crystal clear, as this helps prevent potential misunderstandings down the line. For instance, you may need to consider whether or not the photovoltaic contractor is assuming responsibility for the following:
- Pedestrian and traffic management during solar installation
- Trimming or removal of any trees shading the installation area
- Any required upgrades or modifications to the building or property
- Lightning protection and bird proofing for the solar power system
- Installation of a permanent rooftop safety system for maintenance
Schedule a Free Consultation with Nationwide Solar Today
When it comes to PV installation in Idaho, Nationwide Solar is the company to trust. If you want an award-winning photovoltaic contractor with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau to complete your project – and you want to pay a fair price for a top-quality commercial solar power system – contact us and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.
