How do I choose a solar installer?

When choosing a solar installer, evaluate the company’s credentials and specific offerings for your home. The best solar companies typically have at least five years of experience, strong manufacturer partnerships, and proper certifications, including North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification for installers.

Where are solar panels made?

Four of the biggest manufacturers are headquartered in China and primarily manufacture equipment there (though one of them, Jinko Solar, does have an American manufacturing facility in Florida). The fifth largest manufacturer is a Canadian company, Canadian Solar, which also has a manufacturing facility in Texas.

How do I meet with a solar installer?

When you meet with a solar installer, a representative should walk you through the company’s specific design and installation process, but below, we’ll give you a high-level overview of how solar installation typically works.

How many companies make solar panels?

Looking at the broader supply chain for solar components, there are 52 companies that manufacture those products in the U.S., according to the DOE. These components include inverters, controllers, racking systems, and more. Another 12 U.S. outfits can recycle old solar equipment.

How do I choose a solar company?

Pick a solar installer and finalize your design: A good solar company should help you create a custom design within your budget. They’ll help set your expectations on how much electricity your home needs, what your panels can produce and what you can save as well as how long installation might cost.

Who makes first solar panels?

Ohio-based First Solar is the largest manufacturer of solar panels in the U.S., producing about 50% more panels than the next-biggest American-made brand.