<\/u>If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.<\/strong> There are a lot of shady<\/em> actors in the solar market \u2013 from the sales company, to the panel installer, and then the finance company. \u00a0Consumers should be wary of scams in the solar industry and use caution while considering a solar power contract. \u00a0Remember to consider the following:<\/p>\n Take time to evaluate whether a change to solar power is a good decision for you by taking the following steps.<\/p>\n Conduct an audit. \u00a0<\/strong>Consumers should conduct an audit to determine if a solar unit will help save them money on energy bills. They should determine how many sunny days they see on an annual basis and evaluate whether shade from trees or structures would block the sun from the location of installed panels.\u00a0 Also, it is important to check the roof to make sure the home is equipped to sustain the weight of a solar panel system.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Make a budget.<\/strong>\u00a0Solar energy systems are a major expense. Make sure to get bids from several different companies and remember that the lowest bid isn\u2019t always the best. If you pay with a loan, make sure to factor in various charges associated with the loan.<\/p>\n Inquire about tax credits.<\/strong> If you buy a system, you may be eligible for various local, state, and federal tax credits. The federal renewable energy tax credit for homeowners is equal to 26% of the system\u2019s cost. That credit is scheduled to expire at the end of 2021. The Department of Energy keeps a\u00a0database\u00a0of state-specific credits.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Read the contract.<\/strong> Make sure the contract mirrors everything a salesperson told you. Know the length of the contract and how much you will pay per month (if you are leasing the equipment) or per kilowatt-hour (with a power purchase agreement). Make sure any fees are detailed as well as who pays for any repair, to the panels or to the roof, that is needed during the duration of the contract.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n (Thanks to this article for the above handy list: Do Your Homework Before Going Solar<\/a>.)<\/em><\/p>\n Flitter Milz is a nationally recognized consumer protection law firm that evaluates solar panel sales matters for potential violations of consumer\u2019s rights involving fraud, such as forged contracts, identity theft, and credit reporting privacy violations.\u00a0 If you believe you may be a victim of solar panel sales fraud, Contact Us<\/span><\/strong><\/a> for a no cost review.\u00a0 We may be able to help.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Solar power can be an exciting and environmentally-friendly way to \u201cgo green\u201d while potentially saving money on your electric bills.\u00a0 Often consumers view the change to solar power for their home as an investment in the future with benefits for generations to come.\u00a0 But before you or your family chooses solar, you should determine if … <\/p>\n
\nAcross the nation, there are many companies that offer solar power systems. But consumers must investigate the advantages promised by the solar company and evaluate whether solar panels would provide benefits to their lifestyle and their pocketbook.<\/p>\nConsumers Must Use Caution<\/u><\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Do Your Homework<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Seek Legal Help\u00a0
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