Solar questions, answered honestly

Yes. There's no cost to you to request help. Solar installers in our network pay for referrals. You only pay the company you hire, you're never obligated to hire anyone, and we encourage you to get other quotes too.

No. We're an independent referral service. We don't sell, install, finance, or lease solar equipment. We pass your request to an independent, licensed and insured solar installer serving your area, and they contact you directly. Any contract is between you and that company.

For systems that have stopped working or been damaged, the goal is a call back as soon as possible during business hours. For new installations and quotes, expect contact within a business day or so. A good installer won't rush you to decide.

Georgia Power's arrangements for crediting the solar power you send to the grid have been limited and have changed over time, and exported energy has often been credited at less than the retail rate. EMCs and city utilities set their own rules. Check your utility's current terms and Georgia Public Service Commission decisions before relying on any savings estimate.

According to IRS guidance, the federal residential clean energy credit is not available for property placed in service after December 31, 2025. Incentives can change, so don't rely on a salesperson's claims. Check current IRS guidance and talk to a tax professional before counting on any credit.

Electrical contracting in Georgia is licensed through the State Construction Industry Licensing Board, and the electrical work on a solar system generally needs a licensed electrical contractor. Other licenses may apply depending on the job. Ask for license numbers and proof of insurance, and verify licenses on the Georgia Secretary of State's lookup site.

Buying with cash usually has the lowest total cost. A loan lets you own the system but can include dealer fees that inflate the price. A lease or PPA needs little money down, but locks you into long payments, often with escalators, and can complicate selling your home. Compare written offers side by side.

It can, but it depends on your roof, shade, electricity use, utility, and contract. Atlanta gets plenty of sun, but heavy tree cover and limited credit for exported power can reduce savings. A careful quote based on your actual bills will tell you more than any general rule.

Usually not, unless you have a battery or a specially designed system. Standard grid-tied systems shut off during outages to protect utility workers. A battery with the right controls lets solar keep powering selected circuits.

If your roof is well into its expected life, often yes. Replacing it first avoids paying to remove and reinstall the panels later. Have the roof assessed before signing a solar contract.

Common causes include a tripped breaker, an inverter fault, a wiring or connector problem, or damage from animals or storms. Sometimes only the monitoring stopped reporting. A qualified technician can diagnose it safely.

It's a fee some lenders charge the installer to offer a lower advertised interest rate, which is often built into your system's price. It can make the financed amount much higher than the cash price. Always ask for both prices in writing.

Not always. If you drive modest daily distances and can plug in for long periods, Level 1 from a standard outlet may be enough. Most drivers who want faster, more flexible charging choose Level 2.

Sometimes, but not reliably on its own, because a cloudy moment can coincide with your peak demand. Batteries and load management can help. Ask installers to model your actual demand history.