Now that you've decided to invest in a solar system so you can save some serious money on energy costs throughout the year, it's time to find a reliable contractor to work with who can sell you a quality system and make sure that it gets properly installed for you. Here are a few important things to think about when choosing which solar contractor you want to ultimately hire for the job:

Solar Panel Options

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a contractor to install your new solar system is the types of solar panels that they offer and work with. You shouldn't be limited to just one option because your contractor isn't experienced with others or doesn't sell them. Make sure that the contractor you hire offers the opportunity to invest in at least the following three options:

• Crystalline Silicon—Developed in the 1950s, this is the most common solar option today.
• Monocrystalline Silicon—Designed with silicon ingots, this system provides optimal performance and a longer lifespan than other options.
• Polycrystalline Cells—An inexpensive option, these types of cells minimize waste during production but aren't as efficient as others.

Ask the contractors you consider hiring to provide you with a written report about the performance, longevity, cost, and maintenance requirements for each solar panel option they offer so you can compare them side-by-side before making any financial commitments.

Incentive Opportunities

There are a variety of incentives that you may be able to take advantage of depending on the kind of solar system you invest in and the contractor you decide to work with. The first thing to think about is whether any of the potential contractors you consider hiring requires you to lease any of the equipment you'll be utilizing within your solar system. If any part of your system will be leased, the contractor may reap the benefits of any incentives that are associated with it. When it comes to incentives for your solar panel purchase, make sure the contractor you end up hiring can help you take advantage of:

• State Tax Credits—Claim a portion of your solar investment come tax time for credits toward your balance.
• Renewable Energy Certificates—Earn certificates for the energy you produce that can be purchased by utility companies.
• Performance Incentives—Be paid a specific amount of money for each kilowatt of power your solar system produces.

Your contractor should be able to provide you with a complete list of incentives you may be eligible for and what requirements you'll need to meet to take advantage of those incentives. This information should help you determine what type of equipment to install and whether it's in your best interest to lease it or purchase it outright.

Timeline Quotes

It's also a good idea to make sure that your contractor can provide you with an accurate working timeline quote so you know exactly what to expect throughout the installation process and you can confidently make plans for seamlessly switching your household over from the utility company's power to your own solar system. Consider questions like the following:

• How long will it take to prep the worksite on your roof and install each component of your newly bought solar system?
• What does the timeline look like for the cleanup process?
• What will be done if the work doesn't go a quickly as planned?
• Can a guarantee be offered for when you'll be able to start using your fully functioning solar system?

Make a list of questions about the installation process that will help you understand what to expect in terms of timelines and make sure that the contractor you hire can answer every one of them.

These considerations should be made during the consultation process to help determine which prospective contractor you consider working with is most likely to meet all of your expectations and needs when all is said and done. If you're ready to start asking these questions, call a company like Bombard Renewable Energy.