Solar installation estimate template

Solar estimate FAQ

What goes on a solar installation estimate?

System size (kW DC), panel count + model + wattage, inverter type (string, microinverter, or hybrid) + brand, battery storage (if included) + capacity, racking system, electrical work (sub-panel, main panel upgrade if needed, conduit, breakers), permits, interconnection fees, monitoring, warranty (panels typically 25 years; inverters 12-25; workmanship 5-25), and notes on any state or utility incentives the homeowner may qualify for.

How do I quote system size?

kW DC nameplate × annual production (kWh). Production estimate based on the homeowner's roof orientation, tilt, shading (use Solmetric SunEye or similar), and local solar irradiance. State both: "6.5 kW DC system, estimated 9,200 kWh/year production based on south-facing 25° tilt with no shading." Production estimates are typically -5% to +10% accurate; state the methodology so the homeowner knows what they're getting.

Should I quote with or without battery storage?

Both, usually as separate line items. Solar-only is the cheaper baseline; battery (Tesla Powerwall, LG Chem RESU, Enphase IQ Battery) adds $8K-$25K depending on capacity. Some homeowners want batteries for resilience (post-blackout), others for net-metering arbitrage. State the battery as optional; show production + offset estimates with and without.

Can I still show the federal solar tax credit?

Not on a residential estimate. The residential clean energy credit (IRC § 25D) is not allowed for expenditures made after December 31, 2025, and the IRS treats an expenditure as made when installation is complete. Leave off any 30% federal credit line and any "net cost after the credit" figure, and show the full system price. In the notes, tell the homeowner to check current federal and state incentives: "Incentives depend on your eligibility and current law. We are not tax advisors; consult your CPA." Commercial projects fall under separate federal credits with their own deadlines, so check current IRS guidance before quoting one.

What about state and utility incentives?

Vary by state and utility. SREC markets in NJ/MA/MD/DC pay per MWh produced. Net metering rates vary; California's NEM 3.0 dramatically lowered residential payback. Some states offer tax credits, and some utilities offer rebates. List local incentives in the notes, with disclaimers about eligibility and timing. A line item would add them to the total. Don't promise, the rules change frequently.

How long is the system warranty?

Three layers: (1) Panel warranty: typically 25 years on power output (80-85% production at year 25), 10-25 years on materials. (2) Inverter warranty: 12 years standard, 25 years extended (typically $200-$500 add-on). (3) Workmanship warranty: your labor warranty, typically 5-25 years. Specify all three on the estimate; sophisticated homeowners read the warranty stack carefully when comparing bids.

Should I quote roof work as part of the solar install?

If the roof is over 10 years old, recommend reroofing before solar, moving panels for a roof repair later costs $2K-$5K. Some solar installers include a roof inspection in the quote and surface repair recommendations as an optional line item or as a hold-back. If the roof is in good shape, state that explicitly: "Roof inspected, no repairs recommended; system warranty assumes existing roof remains intact."

How do I handle financing on the estimate?

Most residential solar is financed: cash, solar loan (Mosaic, GoodLeap, Sunlight Financial), PPA (Power Purchase Agreement), or lease. Show the cash price as the baseline and put the other financing options in the notes with monthly payment estimates. State assumptions clearly: "$0 down, 25-year term, X% interest. APR may vary based on credit; subject to lender approval." Don't promise financing approval; just show what's available.