Solar Consumer Protection
Important disclosures and consumer protection information for solar feasibility analysis services, compliant with 2025 ANSI/SEIA standards.
2025 ANSI/SEIA Standards Compliance
This service adheres to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approved Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) standards for ethical solar analysis and consumer protection, effective November 2025.
Transparent Practices
Consumer Protection
Educational Focus
What Our Service Provides
✅ Our Solar Analysis Includes
- • Official NREL Data: Solar calculations using National Renewable Energy Laboratory's PVWatts API
- • Location Analysis: Precise property location using Google Maps geocoding technology
- • Production Estimates: Monthly and annual solar energy production projections
- • Financial Projections: Estimated cost savings, payback periods, and return on investment
- • Utility Rate Analysis: Current local utility rates from NREL's Utility Rate Database
- • Environmental Impact: CO2 reduction and equivalent environmental benefits
- • Educational Content: Information about solar technology and financing options
⚠️ CRITICAL LIMITATIONS - READ CAREFULLY
THIS IS NOT A PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATION
Our reports are preliminary estimates for planning purposes only. They are NOT professional engineering designs, site assessments, or installation recommendations.
Our Analysis Does NOT Include:
- • Site Inspection: We do not physically inspect your property or roof
- • Roof Assessment: No evaluation of roof condition, age, or structural capacity
- • Shading Analysis: No assessment of trees, buildings, or other obstructions
- • Local Regulations: No review of building codes, permits, or zoning restrictions
- • HOA Approval: No consideration of homeowners association requirements
- • Electrical Systems: No evaluation of existing electrical panels or wiring
- • Insurance Impact: No analysis of insurance implications or requirements
- • Property Values: No assessment of impact on home value or resale
Accuracy & Reliability Disclosure
Expected Accuracy Range
Based on industry standards and the limitations of preliminary analysis, our estimates typically fall within these ranges:
Solar Production
±15-25% of actual performance
Financial Savings
±20-35% of actual savings
Payback Period
±2-4 years variation possible
System Size
±10-20% of recommended size
Factors That May Affect Actual Results
Environmental Factors
- • Weather patterns and cloud cover
- • Seasonal variations in sunlight
- • Air pollution and atmospheric conditions
- • Dust accumulation on panels
System & Property Factors
- • Equipment efficiency and degradation
- • Installation quality and orientation
- • Maintenance and cleaning frequency
- • Property-specific conditions
Economic Factors
- • Changes in utility rates
- • Modifications to net metering policies
- • Updates to tax incentives
- • Equipment cost fluctuations
Usage Factors
- • Changes in electricity consumption
- • Lifestyle and occupancy changes
- • Addition of electric vehicles or appliances
- • Home efficiency improvements
Required Professional Consultations
⚠️ MANDATORY PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATIONS
Before making any solar investment decisions, you MUST consult with the following licensed professionals:
Licensed Solar Installers
Required for site assessment, system design, permitting, and installation
Verify licensing through your state's contractor license board
Structural Engineers (if needed)
Required for roof structural assessment and load calculations
May be required for older homes or complex roof configurations
Financial/Tax Advisors
Required for tax implications, financing options, and ROI analysis
Incentives and tax benefits vary by individual circumstances
Local Authorities
Check building codes, permits, and zoning requirements
Requirements vary significantly by location
How to Find Qualified Professionals
Find certified solar installers in your area
Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
U.S. Department of Energy's comprehensive solar guide
Your Consumer Rights & Protections
Solar Consumer Bill of Rights
Right to Transparency
- • Clear disclosure of all costs and fees
- • Honest representation of system capabilities
- • Written contracts with all terms specified
- • Access to system performance monitoring
Right to Quality
- • Licensed and insured installers
- • Equipment warranties and guarantees
- • Professional system design and installation
- • Proper permitting and inspections
Right to Fair Pricing
- • Competitive pricing without hidden fees
- • Clear explanation of financing terms
- • Access to multiple installer quotes
- • Fair contract cancellation policies
Right to Support
- • Ongoing customer service and support
- • System maintenance and troubleshooting
- • Performance monitoring and optimization
- • Warranty service and repairs
🚨 Warning Signs of Solar Scams
Be cautious of solar companies that:
Sales Tactics
- • Use high-pressure sales tactics
- • Demand immediate signing
- • Go door-to-door with "limited time" offers
- • Promise "free" solar with no explanation
Financial Red Flags
- • Require large upfront payments
- • Offer deals that seem too good to be true
- • Ask for personal financial information early
- • Promise guaranteed savings amounts
Business Practices
- • Lack proper licensing or insurance
- • Cannot provide local references
- • Refuse to provide written estimates
- • Have no permanent business address
Technical Concerns
- • Skip site assessment or engineering
- • Promise performance without analysis
- • Use outdated or inferior equipment
- • Avoid discussing maintenance requirements
How to Report Problems or File Complaints
Federal Resources
Report fraud, scams, and unfair business practices
Report financing and lending issues
State & Local Resources
Find your state's consumer protection agency
File complaints and check business ratings
Report issues with net metering or utility interconnection
Industry Resources
Solar industry standards and best practices
Find certified solar professionals
Educational Resources
Learn More About Solar
Comprehensive guide from the U.S. Department of Energy
Educational materials from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Contact Our Consumer Protection Team
Standards Compliance Statement
This Solar Consumer Protection disclosure complies with the 2025 ANSI/SEIA standards for ethical solar analysis and consumer protection, as approved by the American National Standards Institute in November 2025.
We are committed to transparent, ethical practices that prioritize consumer education and protection. This disclosure will be updated as standards evolve to ensure continued compliance and best practices in the solar industry.