THE SHORT ANSWER
A useful solar proposal starts with your electricity use, roof condition, shade, payment terms, and the bill you expect to keep. A large electric bill alone does not establish that a system is a good fit.
Start with your energy history
A year of utility bills helps show seasonal use and whether your household is changing. A future EV, a pool, or a different thermostat setting can all affect the plan.
Look at the roof first
Roof age, available area, orientation, and shade influence the design. If a roof replacement is approaching, evaluate that work before an array is installed.
Compare the whole monthly picture
Ask for the estimated remaining utility bill alongside any solar payment. Review the production assumptions and do not treat an estimate as a guarantee.
Make the proposal specific
Your proposal should identify the equipment, installation scope, price, payment terms, warranties, and responsibility for permitting and utility approval.
Turn the conversation into a plan
Bring the questions that are specific to your household. Are you home during the day? Will an EV change your usage next year? Is a mature tree shading the same roof plane each afternoon? Ask the proposal team to record what was assumed and what was measured. If two proposals use different annual consumption figures, compare those assumptions before comparing their advertised savings. A smaller system with a clear scope may deserve a closer look than a larger one with unexplained projections.
Questions for your project
- Collect 12 months of electricity usage in kWh.
- Note planned changes: EV, pool, additions, or occupancy.
- Ask for the roof assessment and shade assumptions.
- Request the estimated remaining utility charges in writing.
Make it specific to your home.
Bring a recent utility bill and your property address to the first conversation.