How to Compare Solar Quotes Like a Pro
Not all solar quotes are created equal. Some focus on system size, others on savings. A lower price might look good, but could be hiding lower-quality components or unrealistic assumptions, and higher prices don’t necessarily mean better equipment or service.
This guide will help you cut through the noise and make an informed choice based on facts, not sales tricks.
1. Understand System Size (DC vs. AC)
Each solar system has two sizes listed in watts or kilowatts (kw):
DC system size: Total panel capacity in perfect conditions (what many companies advertise).
AC system size: Realistic, usable power delivered to your home after inverter conversion.
When comparing quotes, ask for the AC system size. This gives you a better idea of what you’ll actually get from your system.
Some companies will use cheaper lower capacity inverters that don’t give you all your moneys worth of the solar panel’s DC system size.
2. Total Cost and Cost per Watt
Look for the total price before incentives. Then calculate the cost per watt, this is the most common way solar companies think about pricing and will help you compare pricing between quotes.
Cost per watt = Total cost ÷ DC system size (in watts)
If your quote is listed in kW you’ll have to break it down to watts (8.5kw = 8500 watts)
System prices range from $2.00 to $4.00 per watt, when the equipment and scope of work is the same across quotes, the higher prices are typically just sales commissions. We don’t have any sales commissions so our prices are closer to $2-2.50 with top of the line equipment.
Adding things like EV chargers, storage, roof work, etc can increase the cost and cost per watt. So make sure when you’re doing this comparison you’re keeping those potential adders in mind.
3. Compare Equipment Quality
Not all equipment is created equal, when comparing quotes ask your installer for the data sheets to compare performance values, warranties, etc. Here’s an example of what we install
Lower-cost systems often use commodity panels and string inverters that degrade faster and are harder to maintain.
We install only premium components:
Maxeon panels: Ultra-durable, high-efficiency, backed by a 40-year warranty. They deliver industry-leading performance in heat and over time.
Enphase microinverters: Each panel operates independently for greater reliability, higher energy yield, and built-in monitoring.
K2 Systems mounting hardware: When you invest in a solar system, you want to make sure it’s going to stay in place and not cause any roof leaks. K2 hardware is rated for the most intense wind conditions, and innovative self sealing penetrations for when monsoon season hits.
4. Know Your Incentives
Solar quotes should clearly explain which incentives are available and whether you're eligible.
Common incentives include:
Federal tax credit (30%)
State and utility rebates
Battery incentives or energy credits (in some regions)
Be sure the quote shows what’s included, what’s estimated, and what’s not guaranteed.
5. Lifetime Energy and Savings
A good quote should show:
Estimated energy production (over 25 years)
Estimated savings on your power bill
Payback period
Total net savings after cost
Premium systems may cost more upfront but often deliver much more value over time.
6. Financing Costs
Financing costs can add a considerable amount to your lifetime system cost and are critical to account for in your comparison. Like shopping for solar, if you’re going to finance the system it’s good to shop around.
We’ve found our Customers were able to get better rates for themselves working directly with local credit unions and using loan options such as a 401k Loan or Home Equity loan.
