Best 5 Solar Companies in Lawrence, KS

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Lawrence

The more thorough your provider search is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately perform. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Your solar panels' model will influence how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.

If you want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you'll usually pay extra for add-ons. These upgrades extend your system’s efficiency while adding more conveniences to your home. Not all solar contractors include these extras, so look for a company that has them if it's essential for you.

Licensing and Training

In Kansas, the state government doesn't hasn't implemented centralized solar contracting licenses, though some cities issue and require their own licenses for projects within their borders. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most respected are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, backed by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Financing Options

Solar providers offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, leases, and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. We suggest working with a provider that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each representative about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your budget.