By Paul Cutting July 2, 2025

Get at least two Bids
Start local, but get at least two, possibly more, bids for your project so you can compare quotes, recommendations, and ask for clarifications. Contractors are busy and may not be competing on price, so it’s to your advantage to shop around. View our Local Contractor Directory.
What questions you might ask your solar contractor
System Design – How do you size and design the system? Will you review my past energy usage and future needs to account for things like future EV or heat pump purchases?
Equipment Selection – Which brands of panels, inverters, and batteries do you install, and why? What is the functionality of the accompanying online monitoring system, and will you guide me through its use?
Interconnection and Code – How do you handle utility interconnection, net metering, and local electrical code compliance? Can you assure me my new solar array will be sized to be within any net metering caps set by my utility?
Performance Estimates – Can you provide energy production and savings estimates in writing as part of your project proposal, with assumptions explained?
Longevity – What’s the warranty on panels and inverters, and what is your company’s track record of supporting customers long-term?
Future Readiness – Can the system be expanded later if I add an EV or heat pump?
Reach out with questions
Still have questions? Contact Energy Planner Paul Cutting: paul@energydistrict.org. Your energy district is a neutral third party who is committed to helping you increase locally-owned, renewable energy.
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