Solar energy is booming, and the future is brighter than ever. Through rooftop solar panels, many homeowners can harness the sun’s natural rays to produce environmentally friendly and cost-effective electricity.

But with the increasing popularity of solar, some businesses are taking advantage of consumers interested in generating their own energy through rooftop panels.

While many solar companies are genuine and genuinely want to help consumers with a successful solar installation, there are the occasional bad apples.

JOEMC has had multiple reports of a solar vendor visiting members in our service area to talk about solar installation. These vendors claim to be working in partnership with the co-op (or, in some instances, claim to be co-op employees) to install solar on individual homes. JOEMC members have also informed us that these sales representatives use high-pressure sales techniques to make a sale by pushing members to decide on the spot. Contractors typically do not require fast decisions to purchase. JOEMC doesn’t endorse or partner with any specific solar vendor on residential installations, as we work with many different vendors based on the member’s choice of vendor.

You’ve likely heard a story or two about solar vendors that promised rooftop panels that would generate enough electricity to power the entire home. Then, after the homeowner has paid thousands of dollars for the installation, the solar panels need to be fixed, and the vendor is nowhere to be found. Sadly, this story has been the reality for many consumers.

If you’re interested in solar panels for your home, consider these tips before the installation:

• Talk to an energy advisor at JOEMC first. We want you to feel confident about any decisions you make about your home energy use, especially decisions about generating energy at home.
• Collect at least three quotes from different solar companies to ensure you’re getting a competitive deal. As with any major purchase, research is vital, so thoroughly read customer reviews for each of the three solar vendors.
• If you speak to a solar vendor and they use high-pressure tactics, like an offer that’s only good for 24 hours, run! Any reputable solar company will recognize that you need time to review a proposal and thoroughly weigh your decision.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So, if a solar company is making promises that sound unachievable and outlandish, they probably are. Remember, if you have any questions, you can always count on your electric co-op for advice. If you have questions about installing solar at your home or business, please get in touch with the co-op by calling 910-353-1940.
• Finally, when it’s time to review and sign a solar contract, ensure the language is clear and easy to understand. Ensure any prior verbal (or emailed) promises are also included in the contract.

Going solar is a major decision, so you’ll want to conduct some research first. If you’re looking for a general starting point, check out the Department of Energy’s Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.