Wondering how to choose a solar company in Iowa to make the switch to solar with?
Iowa’s the #1 state in the US for renewable energy, and solar is becoming increasingly popular across the Hawkeye state. For a good reason: homeowners care wiping out their current power bill and becoming their own energy provider!
With the demand for solar continuing and gaining speed, the total number of domestic solar power systems is expected to break the four million mark by the end of 2023.
As the solar energy market becomes saturated with many companies, you might be concerned about disreputable companies.
While many trustworthy solar companies in Iowa work hard to provide programs to help make solar affordable for every homeowner, other companies lie to get customers.
We have some helpful hints and tips on what to be aware of, how to prepare for a conversation with a solar installer, and what you can do to make the best decision when choosing a solar installer to work with.
Tactics Fraudulent Solar Companies in Iowa Use
Pushing Long-Term Power Purchase Agreement contracts
A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is where a third party developer installs, owns, and operates a solar energy system on the customer’s property. PPA contracts are infamously and extremely hard to get out of without paying a large lump sum of money.
Plus, unlike when you finance a system you’re paying to own, you also don’t get any of the tax benefits or savings that come with owning solar. Make sure you’re signing a contract to finance to own your system if you’re not paying for it all upfront.
Tax Credit Promises
The switch to solar is enticing in part due to savings and current tax incentives that help bring down the cost. Untrustworthy solar companies that show up promising outrageous tax credits if the consumer agrees to purchase or lease a solar system are taking advantage of confusion around what the federal solar tax incentive actually is.
The federal solar tax incentive can be claimed on federal income taxes for up to 26%of the cost of a solar system. You have to own the system whether it’s through cash or a financing agreement. You can’t lease the system or be in an agreement where you would be purchasing electricity from a system you don’t even own and claim this credit.
Installers That Want to Start Without a Contract
If any company ever won’t provide you with a contract at all, or tries to force a contract signature too quickly on day one, take that as a big red flag. Without a contract you don’t have a guarantee that the job itself will get done. Signing a contract too soon means you don’t have time to look it over, and can’t make sure it’s sound and includes everything you want.
Salespeople Pretending to Be From the Government or Utility Company
With solar becoming so prominent, there are a lot of companies and people wanting to take advantage of the money involved. Some of them may be phony.
Be on the lookout if you ever get a knock on your door from someone who claims to be a ‘state representative’ or a supposed utility company employee wanting to talk about possibly adding solar to your property. Neither the state government nor your utility company are likely to send someone to your door to sell you on the idea of home solar. If this does happen, do not sign anything and take the time to do your own research.
How to Choose a Trustworthy Solar Company in Iowa
Watch Out For High Pressure Sales Tactics
If you feel like you’re being rushed to sign up for anything, or feel pressured to do something, it’s a good idea to ask for some time to do your own research. That can be as simple as telling the solar representative that you need some time to think about it, and make the best decision for your home.
Look at Online Reviews
When deciding who to choose for your solar, it’s always a good idea to research every installer you’re considering. Looking at reviews from other customers from review sites like Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau is a great place to start. See what other consumers are saying about their experience with a given installer, including customer service, and the overall experience.
Get Competitive Bids
Making the best decision possible when you’re making a big purchase might include comparing prices. You should also check for what each company offers as a standard level of customer support, and product warranties and guarantees.
The cheapest option is not always the best, as it may come with cut corners, less customer support, and shorter warranties that don’t protect your investment. Knowing what companies offer as a standard, and what a reasonable cost is, can help you make the best possible decision for your switch to clean, renewable solar energy at home.
Feel Confident With Your Switch to Solar
With these tips and hints, you can find the best possible solution for solar at home. Want to break through the noise of the crowded solar industry, and partner with a company with thousands of satisfied customers? It’s time to think about going with Purelight Power.
At Purelight, we strive to deliver world-class customer service, and a lasting partnership with every homeowner. We’ll walk you through everything, and answer any questions you may have to make sure you feel comfortable with your choice. No pressure, no pushiness.
With just a quick 30 second quiz you can see if your roof qualifies for $0 out of pocket solar!
