Tips For Choosing The Right Solar Company For Your Installation

Australia has quickly emerged as a leader in rooftop solar PV installation. By the end of 2018, there were close to 2 million rooftop solar installations in the country and this number is expected to rise to more than 3 million by the end of 2021. Consistent positive changes in the policy mechanisms have given a huge boost to this immense increase in the rate of installations. However, these numbers don’t tell the whole story. Choosing a trustworthy and reliable solar company isn’t as easy as it seems.

Since 2011, more than 750 solar installation companies have shut down. It is estimated that around 450,000 to 600,000 solar installations in Australia are orphans. An orphan system simply means that it is unsupported and there is no support from the installer as well as the manufacturer. 

One of the main reasons for the failure of so many solar installers is the poor quality of solar panels, inverters and other accessories leading to consumer complaints. The companies that installed and/or imported these solar panels decided to liquidate instead of bearing the cost of replacing thousands of failed solar inverters and/or panels. This is why it is important to research important parameters when choosing a solar power installation company. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

CEC Accreditation And Approval

Every single solar installer in Australia is required to carry CEC accreditation. The Clean Energy Council (CEC) is the leading body that represents the clean energy sector of Australia. It is made up of more than 600 member companies in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy. It maintains a list of accredited and approved solar retailers and installers. 

Accreditation means that the individual has undergone the required training to safely design and install solar energy systems. Similarly, CEC approved solar retailers are required to comply with a specific code of conduct that has been designed to ensure a better standard of service in the solar and renewable energy industry. CEC maintains a list of accredited and approved solar PV installers and retailers on its website. GCR Electrical Systems is fully accredited with the CEC. Also, all the electrical contractors in our team are fully licensed and well trained.

Customised Installation

There are many solar installers who provide a cookie-cutter quote on the phone without visiting the location where the solar panels are to be installed. Always choose an installer that provides a customised estimate after visiting your location as every location is different and a one-size-fits-all approach does not work when it comes to solar PV installation. 

GCR Electrical Systems promises a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We will provide a customised design and installation service to ensure maximum return on your investment in solar power.

Warranty Terms

All the solar panels sold in Australia are required to have a standard 10-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty. However, the whole system warranty provided by an installer is completely different. Always choose an installer that provides multiple years of system warranty to ensure peace of mind.

Complete Transparency

When you are comparing estimates provided by various solar installation companies, make sure they provide a written estimate with their licence number and CEC accreditation details. Make sure the estimate includes itemised prices for labour and parts, including GST. The estimate should also specify various components along with their brand, quantity and model number. 

The quote should also include STCs and a proper timetable for supply and installation of the system along with payment method, deposit requirements and other such things. When you call for estimates, always ask the installer to specify whether you will need to spend extra money on upgrading the meter or switchboard, or other systems.

Years Of Experience In The Industry

It is recommended to choose a company that has been in this business for several years. It allows you to check their customer reviews and general feedback from existing customers. It is a highly competitive industry and it’s not easy to remain afloat for so many years without meeting the expectations of customers. GCR Electrical Systems has been serving the customers for several years.

Don’t Choose On The Basis Of Price

One of the most common mistakes made by buyers is that they choose the cheapest solar panel retailer and installer without paying attention to the quality of product, CEC approval, CEC accreditation, years in business and licensing details. Some installers in the industry are known for baiting customers with low-priced components and swapping them at a later date with cheaper ones. This is why it is recommended to establish a base price for good quality components by calling a few installers and choosing one with multiple years of experience and a good reputation.

Summary

There are thousands of solar panel installation companies in Australia. Unfortunately, not all the companies are CEC accredited or properly licensed. Many buyers have burnt their fingers by falling into the trap of cheap solar panels. Don’t make the mistake of choosing a solar panel installer because they are the cheapest. Make sure they are CEC accredited, have been in business for several years, are properly licensed and provide an excellent warranty for the whole system in order to get the best value for your money when choosing a solar power installation company.

Please contact us today at GCR Electrical Systems on (07) 4120 7004 if you have any questions about solar installation in Hervey Bay, or leave an enquiry if you would like more information about our solar installation services.