Frequently Asked Questions

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A solar installation company designs, permits, and installs solar photovoltaic systems, handles utility interconnection, and typically provides ongoing warranty support. Many also offer battery storage and EV charger installation.

Ask for their state contractor license number (verify with your state licensing board), NABCEP certification number (verify at nabcep.org), proof of $1M+ insurance, and references from recent installs in your area.

A typical 6kW-10kW residential solar system costs $15,000-$30,000 before incentives. The federal residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025, so homeowners can no longer claim it on direct purchases. State rebates and utility incentives still apply.

Most reputable installers offer cash purchase, solar loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Cash purchases yield the highest lifetime savings but require upfront capital. Leases and PPAs (third-party owned systems) may still benefit from the commercial 48E credit passed to lessors.

The federal residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025 under the OBBB Act. Homeowners can no longer claim the 30% ITC on residential installations. However, solar leases and PPAs may still offer savings through the commercial 48E credit passed to lessors. Check your state for available rebates and incentives.

Physical installation usually takes 1-3 days for residential. From contract to utility permission-to-operate, expect 4-12 weeks depending on your utility.

Yes. Your installer should handle all local building, electrical, and utility permits as part of the installation.

Look for 25-year panel warranties, 10-25 year inverter warranties, and 10+ year workmanship warranties. Always confirm in writing.

Installation companies design and mount new systems. Removal companies temporarily take down existing panels — typically for roof replacement or home sales — and often reinstall them.

Most residential systems benefit from cleaning once or twice per year. Arid or dusty regions may require quarterly cleaning for peak production.

Not required. Batteries increase upfront cost but provide backup power during outages and can improve savings in markets without net metering.

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