Maine Solar Solutions takes a consultative approach when working with our customers. Our goal is to provide you with the information that you need to make an informed decision.
Step 1: An Introductory Phone Call
The first step is a brief phone call where we gather some information and schedule both a free onsite solar site evaluation and a virtual presentation of your custom solar proposal. During this intro call, we will confirm your address, collect some information about your home or business, and determine your annual electricity usage. We will ask about any predicted usage increases or decreases, ask for some photos of your electrical service panel, and ask you to let us know if any generator equipment is present.
Step 2: A Free Solar Site Assessment
For a rooftop solar array, we will conduct an onsite assessment of your roof to determine its pitch and orientation and perform a thorough shade reading and roof measurement. We assess your outside electrical service and look at the potential panel layout and location of wire runs.
If a ground mount is desired or determined to be the best option, we will suggest array locations and educate you about fixed versus tracking solar arrays.
Step 3: Presentation of a Preliminary Solar Proposal
Virtually, your solar consultant will present you with a customized preliminary solar proposal. We typically present a few different system options as system size and solar panel choices will impact the final system cost. We show how system size affects the installed price as well as financing options, an explanation of how net metering works in Maine, and review the federal solar tax credit.
Throughout this process, we encourage your questions and feedback. Our goal is to get you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Step 4: Explore Options
We will also review optional solutions such as battery storage systems.
Advances in battery technology allow solar customers to consider the installation of batteries with their solar system to provide backup power during outages. Sophisticated storage systems allow for greater self-consumption of solar electricity, thus reducing reliance on the grid but are not required for grid-tied solar electric systems.
Step 5: Revised Solar Proposal
Based on the information gathered during the site evaluation, as well as your feedback on the preliminary proposals, we will prepare a fixed-cost, revised proposal. We are happy to revise your proposal so that we can present a solution that meets your budget and renewable energy goals.
Step 6: Solar Installation
If you choose to have Maine Solar install your solar electric system, we will prepare an installation contract. We manage all aspects of the system installation, including permitting, utility paperwork, and registering your system. This can all be done online.
Our qualified and experienced installation team will get the job done efficiently and professionally, ensuring a safe and code-compliant installation. After installation, we will activate your system and set up your monitoring software. We warranty our installations for ten years and will be there to assist you with any questions you may have during the installation and beyond.
