Solar Planning FAQ
How to use solar estimates sensibly, and the questions worth asking before you sign a contract. General information only - not financial or engineering advice.
How accurate are the FreshSuns calculators?
They are deliberately simple and give ballpark figures. Real production depends on roof angle, shading, local weather, equipment and installation quality, and real savings depend on your utility tariff and export rules. Use the results to compare options and sanity-check quotes, not as a guarantee.
What numbers do I need before using the calculators?
Your average monthly electricity bill (ideally twelve months of bills), your electricity price per kWh, a rough idea of usable roof area, and - if you have one - the price and system size from a real quote.
What should I ask every installer?
- What annual production (kWh) do you estimate, and what shading and weather data is it based on?
- What electricity price and yearly price increase did you assume in the savings figure?
- Which incentives did you include, and am I definitely eligible for them today?
- Exactly which panels, inverters and (if any) batteries are included, and what are the product and workmanship warranties?
- What is the total price including any loan or dealer fees, and what happens if I sell my home?
- Who handles permits, utility interconnection and repairs, and do you hold the licences and insurance required for this work in my area?
Why do different quotes show such different savings?
Usually because of different assumptions: production estimates, future electricity price increases, incentive eligibility and how exported power is credited. Ask each installer to state their assumptions so you can compare like with like.
Should I include a tax credit in the payback calculator?
Only if you have confirmed you qualify. In the United States, the federal residential clean energy credit for homeowner-owned systems ended for expenditures after 2025. State and utility incentives vary, so check current rules before entering a value.
Is a battery worth adding?
It depends on your tariff, outage risk and budget. A battery tends to add more value where exported power earns little or time-of-use prices are high. See pairing solar with home battery storage.
Does FreshSuns provide quotes or consultations?
No. FreshSuns is an independent informational site and does not sell, install or assess solar systems. See our disclaimer.