Path-Q Solar
Should I get an independent production estimate before choosing between solar quotes?
Answer
It can be useful when installer estimates differ materially, the roof is complex or shaded, or the financial decision depends heavily on projected production. An independent estimate is a cross-check, not a guarantee, and it is most useful when you can compare its assumptions with each installer’s model.
Key points
- Compare weather data, shading, orientation, tilt, equipment losses, degradation, system availability, and future obstructions.
- Ask installers to explain differences rather than selecting the highest production estimate.
- Independent review is less valuable when it is based on the same incomplete remote data and assumptions.
What it depends on
- Complexity and uncertainty of the site
- Quality and transparency of installer estimates
- Cost and qualifications of the independent analyst
- Importance of projected production to the decision
Risks and trade-offs
- An additional estimate costs time or money and may create false precision.
- Different models can disagree without either being demonstrably wrong if their assumptions differ.
Information you may need
- Installer production reports and assumptions
- Site imagery, shade information, and roof layout
- Equipment and system-loss assumptions
- Independent analyst’s methods and qualifications
Your next step
What to do next
First request assumptions from all installers; obtain an independent review if the estimates remain materially different or the project economics are sensitive to production.
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