1. Not analyzing the energy savings from conservation.

It is normally 3-4 times cheaper to conserve energy rather than produce it.

2. Not investing in higher efficiency equipment.

More efficient equipment means more energy production, and bigger rebates and tax credits. The cost difference is usually so minimal that the best equipment has a faster payback than less efficient equipment.

3. Believing that large corporate solar companies are better and more stable than local contractors.

Bigger companies mean bigger overhead. We are substantially less expensive than these multistate companies. And we use more sophisticated and efficient equipment. 

When the going gets tough, the large companies usually go onto a more lucrative market, or go home. After 47 consecutive years in business, we have seen multiple down turns in our economy. We have proven we can weather financial storms and stay in business to service our existing and past customers.

4. Not eliminating your entire bill.

To stay competitive in the marketplace, most solar companies insist that you not consider eliminating your entire bill.

Fact: On average, utility bills have doubled every 10 years. So, why would you want to keep a bill that will quadruple in 20 years?

5. Not hiring a roofing contractor to help oversee the roofing application portion of the solar project. It is too easy to void an existing roof warranty with a substandard solar-to-roof installation.

Nova West is a licensed roofing contractor and industry expert for the Contractor's State Licensing Board.