How to compare three Tampa solar quotes without getting fooled

Three companies quote the same Tampa roof and the numbers differ by thousands. Usually the systems differ too — the proposals just hide where.

Normalize on these lines

1. System size in kW DC and modeled annual production in kWh. Production is the product you're buying; watts are just hardware.
2. Cost per watt, all-in. Include every fee. A "discount" that reappears as a dealer fee is not a discount.
3. Escalator, if financed or leased. A 2.9% annual escalator changes twenty-five-year totals enormously. A flat payment and an escalating payment are different products.
4. Roof work included or excluded. Decking repair, flashing, and any re-roof scope.
5. Electrical work included or excluded. Panel upgrade, derate, or main breaker change.
6. Warranties, separately listed. Module product, module performance, inverter, and — the one people skip — workmanship/roof penetration warranty and who honors it.
7. Who performs the install. In-house crew or subcontractor, and who you call in year four.

Claims that should slow you down

"Your bill goes to zero" (fixed charges remain), "government pays for it," "price only good today," and any production estimate given without a shade model. Cross-check general expectations against the DOE homeowner's guide.

Then check the boring stuff

Florida license number on the contract, physical Tampa address, and how change orders are handled. Ours is EC13012465 and we're based here.

Talk it through with a Tampa crew

Origin is a Tampa-based solar, roofing, battery and electrical contractor (Florida license EC13012465). Start with the quick questionnaire, see the Tampa solar page, or book a consultation — in person, virtual, or a call back.