Path-Q Solar

What signs suggest that I should get a second opinion on a solar proposal?

Answer

Get a second opinion when a proposal has unsupported production or savings claims, omits important scope, pressures you to sign quickly, or differs substantially from other credible designs without a clear explanation.

Key points

  • Ask for the inputs behind production, degradation, shading, usage, and savings estimates.
  • Compare equipment, system size, roof and electrical work, warranties, and exclusions.
  • A different design is not automatically wrong; roof geometry, shading, equipment choices, and goals may explain it.

What it depends on

  • Completeness and consistency of the proposal
  • Quality of the usage and site data
  • Whether providers made comparable assumptions
  • Contract terms, guarantees, and payment structure

Risks and trade-offs

  • A second opinion costs time but may expose omissions or unrealistic assumptions.
  • Choosing solely on the largest production estimate can favor an unsuitable design.
  • Unresolved design differences may indicate that a site visit or engineering review is needed.

Information you may need

  • Complete proposal and contract
  • Production model and assumptions
  • Equipment and warranty details
  • At least one independent comparison proposal

Your next step

What to do next

Give the proposal and site information to an independent qualified installer or solar professional and ask for a written explanation of any material differences.

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