Not all Solar Sales are Created Equal

Whether they tell you they represent your utility provider or "authorized government program".  Sometime's they even pitch programs that are already closed.  Creating scarcity and urgency when there is none saying only a few more solar applications will be accepted for your area. 

Often times their cost per watt is more.   And almost every re-quote we've done has had the 0% interest financing built in to the cost....you aren't skipping the interest for 5 years....it's built into the price that you are paying.   And often interest costs go WAY UP at the end of those 5 years. If the financing is vague or you are pushed into signing up before you are ready it's a sign to run away.  

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Their pushy sales sign ups can have a lasting effect on your credit and ability to get financing in the future, even if you cancel the contract.  And financing is not transferable to another solar company once you've signed. 

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Door to door people are free to mark up the system as much as they can, and often incentivized to do so. 

A classic overpromise under deliver.  The idea is to offset your annual utility costs.   Third party software is often a great way to double check claims like this PV Watts Calculator. If the company won't leave you a copy of the quote or worse yet wants you to pay a fee to see the assessment its a huge red flag!

No one likes to deal with high pressure door to door aggresive sales people. You should NEVER (one more time...never) have to pay to see your quote. The people shoving the contract at you before you have a chance to think, or saying things like "Utilities are shutting down solar in your area", "we can only guarantee this price for 2 days", "this is your last opportunity"....are the ones to stay clear of.

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Per Solar Alberta's Code of Conduct a minimum of 24 hours should elapse between first contact and signing/taking deposits.  

In addition to all of the above....

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Taking credit for installs they didn't do!  Talk to your neighbors, most people love their solar and the savings; they are happy to chat for a minute. 

There's a lot to consider with solar, making sure all the components are properly sized and will work together is huge; like pairing the proper inverter with panels for maximum efficiency. Is the inverter battery ready? Do you want batteries (now or in the future)?  What are travel costs? What about costs and delays to come back for warranty work? Is rodent protection included? Ask questions! Get a second opinion!