Solar 101 Presentation Notes

Introduction

• Presenter: Michael Scorby, CSO at ProGo Solar
• Purpose of presentation: Overview of solar energy, its benefits, and the sales process.

Reasons for Going Solar

• Main Motivation: Savings on energy costs.
  • Solar energy provides immediate financial benefits without upfront costs for installation or equipment.
  • Long-term savings as utility rates increase annually.
• Environmental Benefits: Cleaner energy compared to fossil fuels.

Solar Installation Process

• **Cost Structure:
  • No money down for installation, surveys, or panels (unless cash payment is preferred).
  • Customers own the solar system or pay for the power generated.
• Energy Generation:
  • Solar panels installed on rooftops generate energy for the homeowner.
  • Energy from solar is often cheaper than utility-provided energy.

Value of Solar Compared to Traditional Utilities

• Traditional energy is costly due to maintenance of extensive infrastructure (power plants, grids, etc.).
• Solar energy is generated locally, effectively reducing costs.
• Customers can potentially pay less over time with solar than sticking with traditional utilities.

Savings Overview

• Customers typically save 10-15% on energy costs.
• Savings increase over time as the cost of solar remains stable compared to rising utility costs.
• Concept of net metering: Excess energy produced can be credited back to the homeowner.

Presentation Structure for Customers

• Use engaging visuals (like Thomas Edison’s quote on solar energy).
• Explain how energy is generated through solar panels and the steps involved until it reaches their home.
• Discuss utility costs over time if they stay traditional vs. what they would pay with solar.

Customer Questions to Address

• Does my solar cover my whole electrical usage?
  • Aim for a 100% energy offset based on past usage.
  • If not 100%, still locking in a lower rate can provide savings.
• What happens when I sell my home with solar?
  • Transfer of solar bill or payoff option; homes with solar often sell for more due to lower energy costs.

Key Concepts to Communicate

• How Solar Works:
  • Sunlight hits panels, energy flows through inverters to power the home.
• Net Metering Explained:
  • Customers can send excess energy back to the grid and receive credits on their bill.
  • It balances out energy usage over time, especially during high consumption months.

Preparing for Proposals

• Collect comprehensive customer information for accurate proposal creation.
• Discuss potential financing options highlighting tax incentives (22% federal tax credit).
• Emphasize savings and long-term benefits of going solar.

Conclusion

• Benefits Recap:
  • Solar energy saves money, increases property value, and supports the environment.
• Next Steps for Sales Teams:
  • Gather customer data efficiently to streamline the proposal process.
• Continuous learning about the solar industry is encouraged for better customer service.