When it comes to switching to solar energy, homeowners are faced with many options. One initiative gaining attention is Solar Together, a group-buying scheme that promises reduced costs through collective purchasing. While it sounds appealing on the surface, local solar installers have some serious concerns about whether Solar Together is worth it. Let’s explore why local experts often urge caution when considering Solar Together.
1. Quality of Service May Be Compromised
One of the major downsides to Solar Together is that it prioritises low cost over quality service. The program works by getting solar installers to bid against each other in an auction-style system, where the lowest price often wins. Local solar companies argue that this can lead to corner-cutting on service quality and materials.
With so much focus on reducing costs, it’s likely that homeowners could end up with lower-quality panels or installation services. Local installers who prioritize long-term performance and quality may not be able to compete in this race to the bottom, leaving homeowners with fewer options for reliable service.
2. Local Installers Know Your Area Better
Solar installation isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution (see our solar case studies!). The success of a solar system depends on factors like:
- Roof angle and condition
- Local climate patterns
- Property-specific energy needs
Local installers are more familiar with the region’s specific solar requirements and regulations. They provide personalised services, designing systems that are tailored to each home’s unique needs. When you go through a mass-market program like Solar Together, the focus is on volume, not on tailoring the system for maximum efficiency at your specific location.
3. Limited Post-Installation Support
A frequent complaint about Solar Together is that the companies participating in the program may not offer adequate post-installation support. After all, a solar system is a long-term investment, and issues may arise after the initial installation.
Local installers often build their reputation on providing reliable, long-term customer support (see our reviews!). With Solar Together, homeowners may find themselves stuck dealing with less responsive companies that were brought in from out of town for the project. When support is needed, dealing with a faceless large-scale installer could be frustrating and time-consuming.
4. Local Economy Suffers
Choosing Solar Together often means turning away from local businesses that employ people in your community. Solar Together frequently uses larger, sometimes non-local installers that are less invested in the local economy. Supporting a local installer means your money stays within your community, helping local businesses thrive and keeping local jobs secure.
Local solar companies also tend to be more involved in community activities and often provide a level of trust and familiarity that larger companies can’t. Homeowners get to meet the actual team doing the work, rather than dealing with multiple layers of third-party contractors or customer service reps.
5. Solar Together May Not Offer the Best Long-Term Savings
While the appeal of Solar Together lies in its promise of lower upfront costs, local installers argue that the long-term savings might not live up to the hype. Local companies are often willing to spend more time analysing your specific energy needs to maximise efficiency and return on investment.
The lowest bid often means basic setups that don’t fully account for your long-term needs. What’s worse is that by skimping on quality, Solar Together systems may not last as long or perform as efficiently, potentially costing more in the long run.
6. Limited Customisation and Flexibility
With a program like Solar Together, customisation options are often limited. The goal of a collective buying scheme is to simplify the process for the installer, meaning they offer a standard package to all participants. But local installers are able to provide custom designs that fit the specific needs and preferences of individual homeowners.
If you want flexibility in panel type, mounting options, or even additional technologies like battery storage, going local gives you more control over the details of your solar system.
Conclusion: Why Going Local Is the Better Choice
While the Solar Together program may seem appealing due to its lower upfront costs, local installers urge homeowners to consider the long-term trade-offs. The quality of materials, level of service, and personalised experience that local companies offer far outweigh the short-term savings of a collective buying scheme.
For homeowners looking for a solar system designed with care, installed by experienced professionals, and backed by strong local support, sticking with a local solar installer is often the smarter choice. Not only will you likely get better service, but you’ll also be supporting your local economy and investing in a system that will truly meet your home’s energy needs for years to come.
At LA Electrical & Solar, we understand the local landscape and prioritise quality, service, and community. Contact us today for a free consultation to see how we can help you transition to solar, the right way.
