Path-Q Solar

What signs suggest a solar sales presentation is overstating expected savings?

Answer

Warning signs include guaranteed savings without a written basis, missing utility bills or production assumptions, unusually high rate escalation, favorable export assumptions, omission of fixed charges or financing costs, and pressure to sign immediately. A credible presentation shows the inputs, calculation, uncertainty, and downside case.

Key points

  • Check whether projected production is supported by a site-specific model and shading analysis.
  • Verify the assumed electricity rates, export treatment, consumption growth, degradation, and system downtime.
  • Separate bill reduction from net savings after financing, maintenance, replacement, and other costs.
  • Treat claims based on tax, rebate, or eligibility assumptions as requiring current verification.

What it depends on

  • The accuracy of the production and consumption model
  • Current bill structure, rates, export rules, and incentives
  • Financing terms and future electricity use

Risks and trade-offs

  • Optimistic assumptions can make a poor project appear financially attractive.
  • A larger system may increase cost without producing proportional usable savings.
  • Savings estimates are uncertain and may not account for roof work, repairs, or equipment replacement.

Information you may need

  • The full savings model and all inputs
  • Recent bills and planned load changes
  • Written financing, incentive, warranty, and maintenance assumptions

Your next step

What to do next

Request a conservative, independently checkable savings analysis and compare it with at least one alternative proposal before signing.

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