A good solar quote tells you exactly what you're buying, how much electricity it should make, what it costs per watt, and who stands behind it if something goes wrong. To read one, find five numbers: system size (kW), estimated annual production (kWh), total price, price per watt, and the warranty terms. Then compare quotes on those. Red flags include high-pressure tactics, vague equipment lists, "free solar" pitches and savings projections that only work if electricity prices soar.
Key takeaways
- Compare quotes on price per watt and estimated annual kWh, not just total price.
- A complete quote names the exact panel, inverter and racking models.
- Look for three warranties: product, performance and workmanship.
- The installer should handle permits, inspection and utility interconnection, and say so in writing.
- Be wary of door-to-door pressure, "government program" claims and unrealistic savings.
The anatomy of a solar quote
1. System size
Listed in kilowatts (kW DC), such as "8.4 kW." Check it against your own estimate using our sizing guide.
2. Equipment list
A proper quote names specific models, not just brands:
- Panel make, model and wattage, plus quantity
- Inverter type and model: string, microinverters or optimizers (see our inverter guide)
- Racking and attachment system
- Any battery, monitoring hardware or electrical upgrades
3. Production estimate
This is the estimated kWh per year, ideally with a month-by-month breakdown and a note on shading. It should come from design software using your actual roof, not a rule of thumb. Divide annual kWh by system kW. In southern Canada, results roughly between 1,000 and 1,400 kWh per kW are typical for well-placed systems. A number well above that range deserves a question.
4. Price and price per watt
Divide the total price before incentives by the system size in watts. An 8,400 W system at $25,200 is $3.00 per watt. Canadian residential pricing commonly runs about $2.40 to $3.50 per watt (approximate). See our cost guide.
5. Scope of work
The quote should state what's included:
- Design and engineering
- Building and electrical permits
- Utility interconnection or net metering application
- Electrical inspection and sign-off
- Any roof work, panel upgrade or trenching
- Monitoring setup and handover
Check the warranties closely
| Warranty | What it covers | Typical range (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Product (panels) | Defects in the panels themselves | ~12–25 years |
| Performance (panels) | Minimum output over time | ~25–30 years |
| Inverter | Inverter or microinverter failure | ~10–25 years, depending on type |
| Workmanship (installer) | Installation errors, leaks from roof penetrations | Varies widely, often 5–25 years |
The workmanship warranty is the one most often overlooked, and the one that covers roof leaks. Ask who honours it if the installer goes out of business.
Payment terms
When do deposits and payments happen? A reasonable structure ties payments to milestones such as signing, installation and final inspection or utility approval. Be cautious about paying most of the price up front.
Red flags
High-pressure sales
- "This price is only good today."
- A salesperson who won't leave without a signature
- Discouraging you from getting other quotes
Solar is a long-term decision. A reputable company will give you time.
"Free solar" or "government program" claims
Some sellers imply they're with a government program or utility, or that solar is "free." Programs change over time. Federal grants like the Canada Greener Homes Grant are closed to new applicants. Verify any incentive claim yourself using our rebate finder and the official program website. "Free" usually means a lease, a power purchase agreement or financing that you pay for over time.
Vague equipment
"Tier 1 panels" or "premium inverter" without model numbers makes it impossible to compare quotes, and leaves room for substitutions. Ask for model numbers in the contract.
Inflated savings
Watch for: - Electricity price escalation assumed at several percent a year for 25 years - Savings calculated on your whole bill, including fixed charges solar can't remove - Ignoring how your utility actually credits exports. Rules differ by province. See our net metering guide. - No mention of inverter replacement or panel degradation
Ask for a projection with zero rate escalation. If it still makes sense to you, great.
Financing buried in the fine print
If the quote includes a loan or lease, look for the interest rate, term, total cost over the term, any fees, and what happens if you sell your home. Some financing structures register a lien or charge on the property. Compare with other financing options.
No site visit or roof assessment
A remote design using satellite imagery is fine for a first estimate. Before signing, though, someone should check your roof's condition, structure and electrical panel. If your roof needs replacing soon, a good installer will say so. See re-roofing before solar.
Missing licences and insurance
Ask for proof of liability insurance, the electrical contractor's licence in your province, and workers' compensation coverage. Check reviews and complaints with consumer protection bodies where available.
Questions to ask every installer
- Who will physically install the system: your employees or subcontractors?
- How did you calculate my production estimate, and what shading losses did you assume?
- What happens if the system underperforms the estimate?
- Who handles warranty claims, including roof leaks, and for how long?
- How long until the system is turned on, including utility approval?
- Which net metering or export rate will my system be on?
- Does this design account for snow load and code setbacks?
Frequently asked questions
How many solar quotes should I get?
At least three is a common rule of thumb. That gives you enough to see a fair price range and compare equipment and warranties without getting overwhelmed.
Is the cheapest solar quote a bad idea?
Not necessarily, but make sure it includes the same scope, comparable equipment and real warranties. A low price that leaves out permits, uses unnamed equipment or has a short workmanship warranty may cost more later.
Can I cancel a solar contract after signing?
Many provinces have cooling-off periods for contracts signed at your door. Terms vary by province and contract type. Check your provincial consumer protection office before you sign, and read the cancellation clause.
The bottom line
Reading a solar quote well comes down to comparing like with like: price per watt, estimated annual production, named equipment and solid warranties. Take your time, get several quotes and verify every incentive claim independently. A trustworthy installer will welcome your questions. For more background, see our solar overview, FAQ and glossary.
Sundamentals is an independent, non-profit education platform. Program details and prices change often — check current programs for your address in our rebate finder.