Topic
Hiring & Cost
What solar installation costs, how to choose (and vet) an installer, and whether DIY makes sense.
GuideDo You Need a License to Install Solar Panels?Pros almost always need an electrical or solar contractor license. Homeowners can often DIY on their own home with a permit - but rules vary. Here's how it works.GuideHow Much Does Solar Installation Cost?Solar installation runs about $2.50-$3.50 per watt - roughly $15,000-$25,000 for a typical home - and labor, permits, and overhead are a big share. Here's the breakdown.GuideHow to Choose a Solar Installer (and Red Flags to Avoid)The installer matters as much as the panels. Here's how to vet one - licensing, experience, warranties, and finances - plus the red flags that signal trouble.ArticleWhat Happens to Your Solar Install if the Installer Goes Bankrupt?After SunPower and Freedom Forever failed, this is a real worry. Your panels keep working and manufacturer warranties hold - but the installer's workmanship warranty can vanish.ArticleThe Federal Solar Tax Credit Ended - What It Means for Installing in 2026The 30% federal credit for buying solar expired Dec 31, 2025. Here's how that changes the math for installing in 2026 - and why leases and PPAs still carry a federal benefit.