Finding an Installer

Learn About Solar Electricity

As you move forward with a solar electric project, you'll want to find an installer you are comfortable working with. Use the tips below to find the right installer for your project.

The GW Solar Institute video Choosing a Solar Installer offers advice for customers in selecting a solar contractor, questions that customers should ask, and information that should be included in a solar contractor’s bid. 

Quick Tips

  • Get bids from multiple installers
  • Discuss different financing options to find the one right for you
  • Ask lots of questions, such as the ones below
  • Get references from others who have worked with your installer
  • Check out MassCEC's solar pricing information to make sure you're getting a competitive price
  • Verify that installers are properly licensed by checking the Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractor Registry and eLicensing Portal

Potential Questions for Solar Installers

Asking these questions can help determine if a contractor has the appropriate experience to install a solar system:

  • Can you provide references from previous customers with similar systems?
  • How many similar systems have you installed?
  • When would you be able to perform the work?
  • How long will the project take?
  • What warranties are provided (including workmanship warranty and specific equipment warranties)?
  • Have you worked with local building officials and utility representatives when installing similar systems in the past?
  • Do you have a Massachusetts-licensed electrician as part of the project team?
  • Will you hire subcontractors to complete portions of the project? What firms will you hire and what work will they do?
  • What kind of training will you provide me with so that I can operate and maintain my system?
  • Do you offer any financing, or third-party ownership options?
  • Do you have any financial arrangements with any of the financing option providers you work with and do these include extra charges or fees? 
  • Will you or a partner company be able to assist me in selling the solar energy credits generated by my system?

Installer Listing Resources

Installers with previous installations in Massachusetts can be found utilizing MassCEC’s cost and performance data, with the ability to filter for location, type of project and timeframe.

The additional links below also include directories and contact information for installers that work in the Commonwealth.

Disclaimer: The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) has not investigated, and expressly disclaims any duty to investigate, any company, product, service, process, procedure, design, or the like, which may be presented on the aforementioned websites. The presentation of these website links does not constitute endorsement, warranty, or guaranty, by MassCEC of any company, product, service, process, procedure, design, or the like. The entire risk of any information presented is assumed by the user.

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