December 7, 2023 Choosing the Right Solar Consultant: 5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring
Whether you’re a business owner aiming to reduce operational costs, a commercial developer interested in improving your project’s environmental footprint, or a homeowner just looking to harness the power of the sun — selecting the right solar consultant is paramount to getting the job done right.
Installation volumes for solar projects have soared in recent years, with the commercial solar segment in particular growing 27% in 2023 compared to 2022.
Working with an experienced solar consulting firm can significantly impact the success and efficiency of any solar energy project. But with so many options available and more firms now operating as commercial solar consultants, it’s important to ask the right questions to find a solar engineering firm with the right knowledge and expertise.
In this article, we’ll dig into five crucial questions clients should be asking potential solar consultants before making a hiring decision. From understanding their grasp of solar energy production to evaluating track records and client references, these questions will guide you towards making a strategic choice that aligns with your environmental goals and energy needs.
5 Essential Questions to Ask a Solar Consultant
1. How well do you understand solar energy production and facility usage?
Not all solar power consultants have the same level of expertise, and some firms have only recently begun to offer solar energy consulting. One way to determine whether a firm can handle your project’s complexities, and meet your design and deployment goals, is by asking about the firm’s experience with solar energy production and facility usage.
Consultants should be well-versed in solar technology, including the latest advancements in solar panels, inverters, and energy storage solutions. Ask about your consultant’s experience with different types of solar installations, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial.
At KMB Design Group, we’re able to conduct a thorough site analysis to determine your facility’s solar potential. This includes assessing the available sunlight, shading issues, and the orientation of your property. By understanding your facility’s energy consumption patterns and solar potential, we can tailor a solar solution that maximizes energy production and aligns with your specific needs.
2. Do you offer conceptualization or full-design work?
Solar projects involve intricate design processes, ranging from initial conceptualization to detailed engineering plans. Before hiring a solar power consultant, ask about their experience in both conceptual and full-design work.
The conceptual phase involves creating a preliminary design and outlining the project’s scope, objectives, and potential challenges.
During the full-design phase, the consultant should provide detailed engineering plans, ensuring the solar system integrates seamlessly with your existing infrastructure. This includes considerations for electrical systems, structural integrity, and compliance with local building codes.
Understanding a consultant’s capabilities in both conceptualization and detailed design is crucial for a successful solar project that meets your expectations and complies with regulatory requirements.
3. Will you assist in coordinating with local utility providers?
The successful integration of a solar energy system into a facility sometimes requires coordination with local utility providers. Before making a decision on which consultant to hire, ask about their experience in utility coordination. This involves obtaining the necessary permits, approvals, and ensuring compliance with utility interconnection requirements.
Understanding how a consultant plans to navigate utility regulations and grid integration is vital. A knowledgeable consultant will streamline the process, minimizing potential delays and ensuring a smooth transition to solar energy.
Additionally, inquire about the solar design consultant’s approach to facility integration, including how the system will be connected to your existing electrical infrastructure and how it will impact your day-to-day operations.
4. Will you provide me with a comprehensive energy use analysis?
The best solar consultants offer services that go beyond simply installing photovoltaic panels.
At KMB Design Group, we provide a comprehensive energy use analysis for each facility. This involves understanding your current energy consumption patterns, identifying areas for energy efficiency improvements, and recommending solutions to reduce overall energy use.
Ask your consultant about their approach to energy analysis. Do they conduct energy audits to pinpoint areas of wastage? Are they familiar with the latest energy-efficient technologies and practices?
A solar consultant with a holistic understanding of energy consumption can help you implement strategies to optimize energy use, further enhancing the benefits of your investment.
5. What is your track record and experience with clients like me?
Before finalizing your decision, inquire about the solar consultant’s track record and request client references. A successful track record is indicative of a consultant’s reliability and competence. Ask for examples of completed projects similar to yours and inquire about the outcomes.
Client references provide valuable insights into the consultant’s communication, professionalism, and ability to deliver on promises. Don’t hesitate to contact past clients to inquire about their experiences, challenges faced, and overall satisfaction with the consultant’s services. This step can offer peace of mind and confidence in your decision to hire a particular solar consultant.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right solar consultant is a crucial step in ensuring the success of your solar energy project. By asking the five questions we’ve outlined above, you can gain valuable insights into a consultant’s expertise, experience, and approach to solar solutions.
A proficient consultant should not only possess technical knowledge, but also exhibit a commitment to understanding, managing, and reducing energy use. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate potential consultants, and you’ll be on your way to harnessing the power of the sun for a sustainable and energy-efficient future.
KMB Design Group is a full-service engineering firm with in-depth knowledge of solar engineering and photovoltaic design. Our expertise allows us to provide the most comprehensive services to our clients, ranging from conceptual design to feasibility studies and preliminary designs. KMB is on the forefront of solar engineering, with more than 900 locations and 1GW across the country including rooftop installations, canopy installations, ground mount or multi-site programs. To learn more about our cutting-edge solar solutions, click here.