Top 7 Questions to Ask Your Solar Vendor Before Signing the Contract | SolSetu
Top 7 Questions to Ask Your Solar Vendor Before Signing the Contract
Choosing the right solar vendor can make or break your solar experience. Use this short checklist to ensure transparency, long-term performance, and value for money before you sign any agreement.
1. What exact equipment (make & model) will you install?
Ask for module and inverter brand, model numbers, datasheets, and country of origin. Confirm whether the equipment is Tier-1 (or equivalent) and request warranty certificates.
2. What are the warranty terms — product, performance & workmanship?
Clarify:
- Module product warranty (years)
- Performance warranty (degradation over 25 years)
- Inverter warranty (years) and extended warranty options
- Workmanship/installation warranty and SLA for issue resolution
3. Can I see a sample Detailed Project Report (DPR) and energy yield estimate?
Request the proposed layout, shading analysis, expected CUF/annual generation and assumptions used (PR, inverter loading, tilt, orientation).
4. Who will handle net-metering, approvals and post-installation paperwork?
Confirm whether the vendor manages DISCOM approvals, net-metering application, commissioning, and subsidy paperwork (if applicable) — and whether any extra fees apply.
5. What is the payment schedule & financing support available?
Get a clear payment milestone schedule (advance, on-delivery, on-commissioning). Ask if the vendor offers or facilitates bank/NBFC finance, EMI options, or PLI-backed schemes.
6. Who will provide O&M and what are the post-sales support terms?
Confirm O&M contract duration, what it covers (cleaning, monitoring, inverter swaps), response time for faults, and contact points for emergencies.
7. Can you provide references & past project details (similar size/location)?
Ask for 2–3 recent customer references and visitable installations if possible. Verify actual performance vs quoted estimates.
- Exact models & datasheets attached
- Signed warranty schedule
- Detailed DPR & yield assumptions
- Clear payment schedule & O&M terms
Next steps
Use SolSetu’s verified vendor directory to shortlist vendors, compare offers, and request on-site quotes. Also consider attending the Solar Asia Expo 2025 – Indore (12–14 Dec) to meet EPCs and suppliers in person.