It’s a fact of life that many contractors will present potential clients with unrealistic bid proposals when they’re trying to win a new job. The incentive to lie or mislead customers is too great for many Bay Area solar installers to resist, even if it has the potential to blow back in the form of a complaint with the Better Business Bureau or worse, a lawsuit. This is why it is imperative for customers who are considering having a photovoltaic (PV) system installed on their roof to become as knowledgeable about solar energy technology and financing as possible, so as not to be misled.

When you’re requesting bids on solar for your home, here are some things to keep in mind so as to avoid misleading proposals from bad contractors:

• It’s not necessary to get a solar PV installation that is bigger than you need. Unless you’re planning to have more kids or start operating a business from your home, overproducing electricity doesn’t provide any benefits.

• The California Solar Initiative is largely expired. You should be wary of contractors promising CSI credits. However, the Federal Renewable Energy Credit is still available, as are many local programs.

• You should not pay for the work entirely upfront. Fronting the cash for an installation before it has even been started is a recipe for a delayed construction process.

If you’re looking for an honest, professional California residential solar contractor, look no further than West Coast Solar. We can design and install a PV system that meets your energy needs and budget without any shady, deceptive sales pitches.