I thought about this concept a few months ago and did some preliminary research. What I found was that there's quite more to it than just installing the panels... be sure you become familiar with the concept, if you already haven't done so. Overall, the future looks bright for everything 'alternative power'

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That's a very timely business idea considering that the trend now is to go green... to save money and to save mother earth. Hope you have great success in this business venture!

Here some nice info from Residential Solar Power Blog How to install a solar power system? Step 1: Preparation Phase a) Do an home audit home to determine what can be done to reduce electricity usage. b) Determine the size of the PV system based on budget, energy cost reduction, and available mounting area for the system. The PV system supplier typically provides the customer with sizing and performance information. c) Determine the physical size and dimensions of the PV array and its primary components. This is critically important in determining where the PV array and ancillary equipment is to be mounted. Step 2;3 and 4 continues here Consider that solar power industry is hot, especially for heating (water, air and pools). Photovoltaic has still need of improvements because solar cells can generate a lower rate of energy from the sun in respect of what heating panels can generate. In my experience there is more market place for little wattage solar panels used to charge batteries and appliances...consumer need to be more fimiliar with this new technology. Hope it helps... Message Edited by NicoleD on 12-18-2009 11:13 AM Message Edited by solarcontractor on 01-21-2010 12:40 AM -- this message was edited to remove a commercial link

I think this is a great market to get into in many areas. You have a lot of factors especially in a place like Pennsylvania that could make the solar panels not cost effecient. I am sure you have already done a lot of research but I would take a second look at the prices of the panels you would need compared to how much energy they would produce. A big problem I know a business owner ran into in northern Ohio was that no one would invest in solar panels because they thought it was a fad like it became back in the early 80's even though the technology is much better now. I guess educating potential consumers will also be a big hurdle.

The single most important piece of advice anyone can give you, is to do as MUCH research as possible. Learn ALL The ins and outs of the business before you even put your toes into the water. Know where you can get the best prices, check the validity of your suppliars and try to even land some clients before actually ordering anything. You can never do enough research. The worst thing to do is to rush in head first, as you don't want to 'mess up' at the start.

Sorry, we had to take down the solar site due to unforeseen circumstances. Message Edited by sbbarca on 06-20-2009 06:52 PM

Having a business installing green energy systems is great, especially considering the times. If you ever get into a position of advising someone, emphasize that installing a complex system like solar panels isn't worth the trouble of DIY. I've been hearing all kinds of DIY horror stories for people trying to save a buck.

I agree completely with JoeGamer. Learning as much as possible about the trade is the best thing you can do. How are you different? What makes you stand out? What are government incentives I can take advantage of? etc. Knowledge is power so make sure that you are as well prepared as possible. Learn where new research is headed, what types of systems are most common in your market, and even how many people are looking at going solar in your area to get a good feel for possibilities. Basically, do your homework as with any new business venture. Also keep your fingers crossed that President Obama returns from Copenhagen with a renewed sense of responsibility and really goes after boosting the renewable energy market, especially solar! A great site that works with homeowners and installers is CalFinder Home Solar Power. They break down the basics, have the latest in tech news, and have solar contractors from across the country! Good luck to you in your business...always good to see more joining the green cause! ---This post was edited to remove a commercial link. Read our discussion policies for more Community best practices.