Traveling Solar Installers or Traveling Circus

Aug. 28, 2012 - PRLog -- Atascadero, CA – According to Environment California Research and Policy Center, over the past two years alone, the solar industry has installed more than 5,000 kilowatts of solar power in each of 10 different California cities. In a report by clean-energy market analysis firm, GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association, the estimated total of installed solar power will increase by 75 percent in 2012. With an increase in demand, there has also been an increase in solar suppliers, many of which are traveling long distances to take advantage of job opportunities.

“We are seeing more out of the area installers traveling to the Central Coast and other cities, where they do not have an actual office, to complete a job. This is difficult for local installers and may have repercussions for homeowners as well because these installers are not always available for follow up documentation procedures and warranty services,” said Kristian Emrich, Vice President of Solarponics.

Laws and rules concerning building codes and permits differ according to jurisdiction. The documentation requirements, filing process, and structure fees also vary, due to differences in building departments. Some of the documentation requirements include a permit application, owner-builder verification form, planning specifications, construction plan, elevation plan, equipment plan, and electrical plan. Usually the licensed contractor performing the installation will obtain the majority of these permits, assist in the processes, and schedule all inspections.

A final building inspection is required upon the completion of an installment. The permitting agency can then require installers to make corrections or modifications to the system. If the installation offers incentives to be claimed for tax credits, additional application processes are then required. Lack of quality control can be a huge problem in later processes, including servicing, for non-local installers because many of these lengthy procedures must be submitted or completed in person.

“Solarponics, as a local installer, has a reputation for quality, knowledge, and experience that we honor and live up to with every installation. We have ties to the Central Coast and a genuine care for the community and the quality of work we do here,” said Emrich.

Solarponics is the Central Coast’s alternative energy pioneer, helping residents achieve energy independence for over 35 years. The longest continuously owned and operated solar company in California, Solarponics has been family owned and operated since 1975. Solarponics can install and service solar electric systems, solar hot water, wind energy systems, solar pool heating and radiant heating systems. For more information, visit solarponics.com, or follow them on Twitter @solarponics and on Facebook.