When it comes to investing in solar energy, choosing the right installer is crucial. You’ve likely come across Solar Together, a group-buying program that promises convenience and savings by leveraging collective purchasing power. While it may seem like an appealing option at first glance, there are several important factors to consider before signing up. Here’s why Solar Together might not be the best choice for your solar installation.
1. One-Size-Fits-All Approach
One of the key drawbacks of Solar Together is its reliance on a group-buying model. While this approach can streamline the purchasing process, it often results in a one-size-fits-all solution that may not be optimal for your home.
With Solar Together:
- Limited Customisation: Your solar system may not be tailored to your specific energy needs, roof design, or long-term goals.
- Generic Solutions: The focus on volume means that the system installed might not be as efficient or as well-suited to your home as it could be. Customised solutions are essential for maximizing your energy savings and ensuring the best return on your investment.
2. Lack of Local Expertise
Solar energy systems perform best when they’re designed with local conditions in mind. This includes everything from local weather patterns to regional regulations and available incentives. Unfortunately, Solar Together partners with large, national installers who may not have the deep local knowledge necessary to optimise your system.
Choosing Solar Together could lead to:
- Missed Opportunities: Local rebates, incentives, and specific regulations can be overlooked by national companies, which may cost you money in the long run.
- Suboptimal Design: Without an understanding of local climate conditions, your solar system may not be designed for maximum efficiency and performance, potentially reducing your savings over time.
3. Impersonal Customer Service
When working with Solar Together, you’re often dealing with a large, centralized operation. This can lead to impersonal and less responsive customer service.
The potential downsides include:
- Longer Response Times: High volumes and centralised operations often mean delays in getting the support or answers you need.
- Inconsistent Communication: With a national installer, you might find yourself being passed from one representative to another, leading to miscommunication and frustration.
In contrast, local installers are typically more responsive and committed to maintaining strong, lasting relationships with their customers.
4. Potential for Higher Costs
While Solar Together markets itself as a way to save money through collective purchasing, the actual cost savings may not be as substantial as advertised. In fact, there could be hidden costs and fees that drive up the price of your installation.
Consider these points:
- Hidden Fees: Be aware of additional charges that may not be clearly outlined upfront. What looks like a good deal initially might end up costing more than you expected.
- Less Flexible Financing: National programs like Solar Together might offer fewer financing options, limiting your ability to find a payment plan that fits your budget.
Local installers often have relationships with local lenders, providing you with more flexibility and potentially better rates.
5. Limited Accountability
Finally, accountability is a significant factor when choosing a solar installer. Local solar companies rely heavily on their reputation within the community, making them highly motivated to provide excellent service. In contrast, national programs like Solar Together may not have the same level of accountability.
With Solar Together, you could face:
- Limited Accountability: If something goes wrong, it might be challenging to get timely and effective solutions.
Local installers, on the other hand, are part of your community and are often just a short drive away. They have a vested interest in maintaining their good standing and are more likely to provide prompt, reliable service.
Conclusion: Consider All Your Options
While Solar Together offers a simplified process, it’s important to weigh whether it’s the best option for your solar installation. The one-size-fits-all approach, lack of local expertise, impersonal customer service, potential for higher costs, and limited accountability are all factors that could impact your satisfaction and the long-term performance of your solar system.
Before making a decision, consider exploring other options, particularly those that prioritise your unique needs and provide a more personalised, locally focused experience. A local solar installer might offer the customised solutions, responsive service, and community support that make a real difference in your solar journey.