BDSH Releases Checklist for Credible Solar Enterprises

The BDSH reports there to be approximately 8,000 businesses in Germany that sell and install solar systems. Post Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a demand surge led to several thousand new solar businesses joining the industry, especially in the private customer segment. The BDSH observes a vast array of businesses in this sector, ranging from individual entrepreneurs installing photovoltaic systems part-time to well-established electrician enterprises who have specialized in the solar business.

Post-War Solar Demand Stabilizes; Quality Concerns Arise

As 2024 embarks, demand for solar systems in the private customer segment (up to about 10 kW) has leveled back to pre-war status. Data from the July 2024 market master data register reveals a sharp decline in the installation of small plants compared to the previous year. Despite steady demand, the number of installation businesses remains high while there's an oversupply of materials. According to BDSH, this has sparked a cutthroat competition often compromising product and installation quality.

Selection Criteria for Solar Businesses; BDSH Recommendations

The association advises putting a greater emphasis on reliability, seriousness, and quality when choosing a solar business. Online reviews often provide valuable insights into other customers' experiences. In addition, BDSH has created a checklist to help identify credible solar businesses. This list includes queries such as:

• l How long has the provider been in the solar business? A glance at the commercial register may prove helpful.
• l Are they a local provider? How far are they located? BDSH asserts that regional tradesmen are more committed to their customers in the long term.
• l How is the company evaluated online, and how many reviews do they have? Are the assessments meaningful and from actual customers?
• l Does the provider have local references available, and can contact with existing customers be established?
• l Does the provider offer personal, free onsite consultations, or do they only sell via video appointments?
• l Can one see the products at provider's location?
• l Does the company provide up-to-date information on funding opportunities and evidenced knowledge of legal frameworks?
• l Is an individual yield and profitability calculation conducted, based on a precise and digital initial planning?
• l Is the quote detailed? Beware of too many instances of "or comparable" in the offer and ask for a revision.
• l For how long has the provider been using the offered material and how many plants have they implemented with it? Here too, ask for references.
• l Where does the material come from and who is the guarantor? Is the company based within the EU?
• l Does the company offer customer-oriented payment conditions and flexible invoicing options? BDSH advises against complete prepayments.
• l Can the provider show the relevant manufacturer certifications, particularly storage manufacturers?
• l Does the provider self-install or only through subcontractors?
• l What is the legal form of the provider? A UG (limited liability entrepreneurial company) offers little security for the customer according to the BDSH.
• l Is this a craftsman's-master business, or purely a sales company?
• l Does the provider offer service in case of faults?
• l Is there a membership in an industry and/or professional association?

The association aspires to highlight the importance of craftsmanship more than it's achievable by the Federal Association of Solar Economy (BSW). Quality in craftsmanship is a focal point in association work. However, their intent is not just to differentiate themselves from inexperienced individual entrepreneurs but also from overly digitalized sales firms. As per the website, the association currently has 21 members.

The Role of High-Quality Energy Storage in Solar Systems

As demand for solar systems stabilizes in 2024, ensuring the quality of both products and installation has become a primary concern. When selecting a reliable solar business, it's crucial to consider not only the quality of the photovoltaic panels but also the energy storage solutions that power your system. ACE Battery specializes in advanced Residential Energy Storage Systems (RESS), designed to complement solar installations by providing efficient, long-lasting energy storage options.