What Should a Solar Quote Include?
A good solar quote should give you a full picture of what you’re getting, how much it costs, and how it will perform. Make sure it includes:
- System design and size
- Equipment specifications
- Cost breakdown
- Warranties and guarantees
- Energy production estimates
- Financing options
- Installer credentials
- Incentives and rebates
- Installation timeline and project scope
Let’s explore what each of these means and why they matter.
System Design and Size
No two roofs are exactly the same. Each installer may suggest a different layout, system size, or orientation based on shading, roof tilt, and available space.
Check that the proposed system size matches your energy usage. A 7 to 10 kilowatt (kW) system is typical for California homes. Bigger isn’t always better — what matters is how efficiently it meets your electricity needs.
Ask if the design allows for future upgrades, like adding a solar battery or more panels. For more guidance, visit our resource on how many watts it takes to run a house.
Equipment Specifications
Every component in your solar system affects performance and reliability. Look closely at:
- The solar panel brand, model, and efficiency rating
- The inverter type (string inverter, microinverter, or hybrid)
- Mounting hardware and cabling
- Optional battery storage (type, size, and warranty)
Ask for data sheets or product spec sheets. If a quote lists generic descriptions like “Tier 1 panel,” that’s not enough. Get the brand and model.
Cost Breakdown
The total price is important, but the details behind that price matter even more. Your quote should clearly list:
- Equipment cost
- Installation labor
- Permitting and inspection fees
- Monitoring equipment or software
- Any maintenance plans or service agreements
One helpful metric is cost per watt. Divide the total system price by the system size in watts. For example, a $25,000 system that is 7,000 watts (7 kW) costs about $3.57 per watt.
Compare multiple quotes using this metric to spot outliers. For more insights, visit our California solar cost guide.
Warranties and Guarantees
Warranties protect your investment over time. A complete solar quote should explain:
- Panel warranty, typically 25 years
- Inverter warranty, often 10 to 12 years
- Installation or workmanship warranty, ideally 10 years or more
- Performance guarantee, if the installer guarantees system output
For full details, read our solar warranty breakdown.
Energy Production Estimates
You should receive a projection of how much electricity your system will generate each year. These estimates should account for:
- Your location and local solar irradiance
- Roof angle and shading
- Panel degradation over time
Ask for a 25-year forecast, and don’t be afraid to question overly optimistic numbers. Reliable installers use software like Aurora or PVsyst to calculate these projections.
Financing Options
Every homeowner’s financial situation is different. A good quote should outline your financing options and compare them clearly.
- Cash purchase has the highest return but requires upfront payment
- Solar loans offer ownership with monthly payments
- Leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) offer little or no upfront cost but may save less over time
Look for transparent loan terms, interest rates, and repayment plans. Avoid quotes that push one option without explaining others. For more, see our solar financing guide for California homeowners.
Installer Credentials
Not all installers are created equal. Before signing anything, make sure the company is:
- Licensed and insured
- NABCEP certified (a gold standard in the industry)
- Highly rated by past customers
Check online reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau. You can also ask for local references.
Incentives and Rebates
The federal solar tax credit covers 30 percent of your system cost through 2032, but there are also state and utility rebates depending on where you live.
A fair quote will list these incentives and subtract them from your final out-of-pocket cost. Some installers also offer help with paperwork. Learn more about available rebates and incentives in your area through our learning center.
Project Scope and Timeline
Finally, your solar quote should explain what happens next:
- How long will permitting take?
- When will installation start?
- Are there additional steps like a roof inspection or electric panel upgrade?
- Will the installer handle city inspections and utility approvals?
Make sure everything is spelled out clearly so you can compare timelines between providers.
How to Know if Your Solar Quote Is Fair?
Now let’s get to the heart of the matter. With quotes varying so widely, how do you know if what you’ve received is actually a good deal?
Compare the Cost Per Watt
In 2025, most California homeowners are seeing prices between $2.85 and $3.50 per watt before incentives. If your quote is much higher than that, ask why. Higher-end panels and batteries may raise the price, but vague explanations should raise a red flag.
Evaluate the Equipment Quality
If your quote includes premium brands like REC, Qcells, or Enphase, that can justify a higher price. But if it includes entry-level components with the same markup, that’s not fair.
Always ask for the exact product model. If it’s not included in the quote, request it.
Assess the System Size and Energy Offset
Does the proposed system offset 90 to 110 percent of your annual electricity usage? If it’s too small, you’ll still rely heavily on the grid. If it’s too large, you might be overpaying for capacity you won’t use — especially if your utility limits net metering credits.
Look for Transparent Terms
A fair solar quote should include:
- Fixed interest rates for solar loans
- No surprise balloon payments
- Clear payment schedule and total cost over time
- All taxes and permit fees listed upfront
Avoid quotes that seem too good to be true without details to back them up.
Consider Warranties and Service
Do they offer full performance monitoring? Is service handled in-house or outsourced? Are you dealing with a local team that can support you long term?
The cheapest quote might not be the best if it comes with poor service or limited support.
Watch for High-Pressure Sales Tactics
You should never feel rushed or pressured to sign the same day. A good installer gives you time to think, compare, and ask questions.
One of the best ways to know if your quote is fair is by getting multiple offers. At NRG Clean Power, we always recommend collecting at least three quotes — and we’re happy to review them with you.
You can request a free custom solar quote from our team anytime through our quick quote form.
Final Thoughts
Comparing solar panel quotes is a crucial step in making a smart investment for your home. Look beyond the final price to evaluate equipment, warranties, energy projections, and service quality.
If you want expert help reviewing your solar quote or exploring your options, NRG Clean Power is here to help. Our team of experienced consultants can walk you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you’re getting the best possible value.
For more resources, visit our solar learning center and start your journey to lower energy bills with confidence.
