Blogs from May, 2025

A Helpful Guide for New Solar Buyers: Navigating the Solar Market with Confidence

Source: This blog is inspired by an article from Solar Power World, a trusted solar trade publication. You can read the original article here for more in-depth insights.

As the solar industry continues to grow, so does the need for transparency, education, and ethical business practices. At Alternative Energy Southeast, we understand that transitioning to solar energy can feel overwhelming for new buyers. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence. This blog is packed with valuable insights, tips, and resources to ensure you make informed decisions when investing in solar energy.

The Solar Industry: Growth, Challenges, and Consumer Protection

The solar industry is booming, with more homeowners than ever exploring the benefits of renewable energy. However, rapid growth has also brought challenges, including reports of misleading sales tactics and predatory practices. According to Becca Jones-Albertus, Director of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO), “It’s not uncommon in a rapidly growing industry for bad actors to move in.”

To address these issues, federal agencies like SETO, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and the Federal Trade Commission are collaborating on a solar consumer protection and education plan. Their goal? To empower consumers with the knowledge they need to avoid scams and make smart decisions.

Key Tips for New Solar Buyers

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind as you explore solar options:

1. Beware of High-Pressure Sales Tactics
   As Jones-Albertus advises, “You want to be on the lookout for very pushy sales tactics.” If a salesperson is rushing you to sign a contract or making unrealistic promises, it’s a red flag. Take your time to research and ask questions.

2. Understand Who You’re Working With
   “Are they part of the company that’s going to be doing the installation, and who do you call if you have an issue?” These are critical questions to ask. At Alternative Energy Southeast, we pride ourselves on being a small, locally-focused business with in-house teams that handle every aspect of your solar journey.

3. Research State-Specific Protections
   States like Washington and Utah have recently passed solar consumer protection laws. For example, Washington’s Solar Consumer Protection Act requires clear disclosure of costs and system performance expectations. Utah’s Home Solar Energy Amendments mandate a 7-day waiting period before installation begins and a 10-day refund grace period. There are currently no solar specific protections in Georgia, but we are advocating for them.

4. Leverage Online Resources
   Check the company’s online reviews and Better Business Bureau rating. Google is widely used by consumers to rate and review solar businesses. SolarReviews is a good platform for researching local installers and understanding policies, rebates, and incentives.

5. Verify Salespeople Credentials
   New tools like Recheck, an online registry for solar salespeople, are increasing transparency in the industry. Recheck verifies identities, licenses, and certifications, ensuring you’re working with trustworthy professionals.

6. Understand Purchase Options
   There are many types of purchase options for solar. Some options include cash purchase, traditional loan, home equity loan, capital lease, operating lease, and power purchase agreement (which in Georgia is legally called a solar energy purchase agreement - SEPA).
    

Why Choose a Local, Small Solar Business?

As Ben Zientara, a solar policy analyst at SolarReviews, points out, “The companies that we’ve seen failing are big, giant companies who grew too fast and spread out all across the country.” In contrast, smaller, locally-focused installers like Alternative Energy Southeast deeply understand the needs of their communities and the specific requirements of their regions.

We operate with integrity, ensuring every step of your solar journey is seamless and transparent. From navigating interconnection requirements to helping you maximize incentives, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Free Consultation and Solar Estimates

At Alternative Energy Southeast, we offer free consultations to help you understand your solar options and provide accurate estimates tailored to your energy needs. Whether you’re exploring solar panels, financing options, or incentives, our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Reach out to us today to schedule your free consultation!

Final Thoughts: Be a Smart Solar Consumer

The solar industry is full of opportunities, but it’s essential to approach your purchase with caution and knowledge. By following the tips above and leveraging resources like SolarReviews and Recheck, you can avoid common pitfalls and make a confident investment in renewable energy.

At Alternative Energy Southeast, we’re committed to providing you with the highest level of service and expertise. As a small business, we take pride in building trust and delivering results for our customers. Ready to take the next step toward solar energy? Reach out to us today—we’re here to help you shine brighter with solar!

“The vast majority of the people in this industry are in it for the right reason,” says Tim Trefren, CEO of Recheck. Together, we can ensure that solar energy continues to grow as a trusted and sustainable solution for homeowners everywhere.