When you search online for solar energy, one of your first search results will probably be from the online solar referral site, EnergySage. When it comes to internet search results, this site is king. But should you use EnergySage to do for you what they’re in business to do: find and recommend your solar company? Let’s break down for you why you might decide to do so, and the reasons that you might decide not to use their recommendations.
How Does EnergySage Work?
Just like many other online recommendation services (think Angie’s List, Home Advisor, Thumbtack), home and business owners who are looking for a particular service are referred to professional installers. But stop and think – what criteria is used to determine how a referral is made?
These types of sites offer free referrals to the customer, but they aren’t in it to be benefactors; they charge the professional for the referral. From the customer perspective, this may sound great: you get a list of pros, some basic info about them, as well as customer reviews, and often, their pricing information upfront.
EnergySage Can Be a Great Resource
If you’re gathering general information and you want a place to start, there’s nothing wrong with pinging EnergySage and seeing what some basic options are. Many customers enjoy the process and like the simplicity of a computer handing them referrals.
Some solar shoppers are thinking about one thing when they choose a solar provider: Who can do the job for the cheapest price? If that’s your only priority, EnergySage might be right for you.
Also, a word of caution: there is no across-the-board criteria for quotes on EnergySage, so a contractor’s price may not include things like permits, taxes, and sometimes even installation. Make sure you completely understand what is and is not included in the quote.
EnergySage: Seeing the Full Picture
Other solar seekers have additional criteria: they want to have a good experience. This includes having friendly salespersons and installers, great communication with the company, and a long warranty on both the panels that are installed and the installation itself.
Though EnergySage does require its professionals to be licensed, they do not do in-depth investigations of their pros before they refer them to homeowners. So choosing a pro from EnergySage without any personal investigation is a fairly ‘sight-unseen’ decision.
Finding a Qualified Solar Company
Besides EnergySage, how can you find a qualified solar company? One of the best ways is to ask around and get a referral from a satisfied customer. You can also search online for installers in your geographic area, and take note of online reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and others. It also helps to make a short list of prospects and do a little personal investigation.
Personal Research is Worth Your Time
Think about what you can learn about a company by calling personally. Who picks up the phone, a call center employee or a knowledgeable team member? Is this person a pushy salesman or a helpful assistant? Are they willing to answer your questions and address your concerns patiently? Or do you feel like the person is pushing you through the sales process?
Making a personal investigation can help you understand what it will be like to work with the solar company. In a way, it can help you understand the company culture. You’re about to make a large investment in solar energy. Naturally, you want to have excellent service that goes along with the product.
Synergy Power is Proud to Be Your Solar Partner
Of course, we aren’t writing this article for no reason! Synergy Power is proud to be a solar provider based in Livermore, California. We would love to be your solar energy partner. We have a proven track record with over 16 years of experience installing solar energy for both businesses and homeowners in the Bay Area.
When you receive a quote from us, there aren’t any surprises. Our quotes include all charges: including taxes, permit fees, installation, and are put together by a local NABCEP certified designer.
Our staff is friendly, our technicians are highly experienced, and we have one of the best warranties you’ll ever find! It would be our pleasure to talk to you about your solar project; we’ll answer any questions you have, talk you through the process, and provide you with a competitive quote for installation.
Thinking of going solar in the Bay area? Give us a call or fill out the contact form, and we’ll be in touch.