Thinking About Solar? Here’s How to Compare Quotes with Confidence
Whether you're in Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, or Vernon, installing solar panels is a smart way to reduce your utility bills, increase home value, and support clean energy.
But here's the catch: not all solar quotes are created equal.
There’s more to comparing solar installation quotes than just looking at the cost. Understanding system design, warranties, installation quality, and hidden fees can save you thousands—and a lot of frustration.
Use this guide—and our free Solar Quote Comparison Checklist—to confidently choose the best system, not the best sales pitch.
Solar Panel System Installed by Greenamp Solar & Energy: Choosing the right quote makes all the difference.
💡 Pro Tip: Building awareness for solar and the greener homes loan through door-to-door marketing is fine—but avoid companies that use high-pressure tactics. These are often the most expensive.
Solar Companies vs. Solar Brokers What’s the Difference?
When shopping for solar in Alberta or the Okanagan, you’ll typically encounter two quote types—direct quotes from solar installation companies, and quotes from solar brokers.
Direct Quotes from Solar Installation Companies
When requesting quotes directly from solar companies—whether local or based out of the area—you’re typically dealing with the business that will handle your installation. This approach often provides:
Direct communication with the team responsible for designing and installing your system
Clarity on timelines, equipment, and warranties
Insight into regional programs, like net metering or municipal rebates
Greater transparency, since there are no third-party referral fees or broker commissions involved
Watch for Subcontracting:
Some solar companies—especially national or out-of-area providers—outsource installations to subcontractors. This isn’t necessarily a red flag; in fact, some subcontractors are highly skilled and experienced.But as a homeowner, you still deserve to know:
Who exactly will be working on your home?
Are they licensed electricians or general contractors?
How long has the subcontractor been in business?
What’s their track record with solar installations?
Who do you contact if something goes wrong—the subcontractor or the solar company?
When subcontracting is involved, there’s a greater risk of:
Inconsistent workmanship across different crews
Scheduling delays, since subcontractors juggle multiple clients
Reduced accountability, especially if communication issues arise post-installation
🔍 Pro Tip: Ask if the same team quoting your project will also be installing it. If not, request to see reviews or references for the subcontracted crew. Ensure that all electrical work is completed by licensed professionals—not just general labor.
High-quality solar installation in Beaumont, completed by Greenamp’s in-house team.
At Greenamp, we don’t subcontract our installs. Every system is handled by our own team of Red Seal Electricians, supervised by a Master Electrician—so you know exactly who’s working on your home.
2. Quotes from Solar Brokers
Brokers collect and present multiple quotes from a limited pool of installers.
While brokers advertise “unbiased” recommendations, most work only with installers who agree to pay them a referral fee—meaning:
You're only seeing companies in the broker’s network
The quote may include broker commission costs
The installer may not be local or the best fit
Should You Use a Solar Broker? Pros and Cons for Homeowners
Solar brokers offer a simplified way to explore your options—but are they the right fit for your home and goals?
Here’s a fair comparison of the benefits and potential drawbacks:
Pros of Using a Solar Broker
âś… Convenience: One contact, multiple quotes
âś… Side-by-side comparison
âś… Basic installer vetting
âś… Good for solar beginners
âś… May introduce unknown installers
Cons of Using a Solar Broker
❌ Limited Options: Only shows you installers that pay the broker
❌ Costs may be Inflated: Commissions are usually passed on to you
❌ Less transparency around the installer and process
❌ Advice may be swayed by which installer pays the most
❌ No direct relationship with your installer
⚖️ Our Take: Brokers offer convenience—but multiple direct quotes offer better value, transparency, and support. We’re happy to be compared to any provider—brokered or direct.
The Smart Homeowner’s Strategy: Educate Yourself with Multiple Solar Quotes
A real Greenamp proposal, just like the one you’d receive when comparing solar options.
Installing solar is a long-term investment, and the best way to make a confident decision is to educate yourself with multiple quotes.
When you gather quotes from different providers, you begin to spot:
Real differences in equipment quality
Gaps in warranty coverage
Variations in project timelines
And sometimes, hidden fees or vague promises
At Greenamp, we encourage homeowners to get multiple quotes. In fact, we welcome the comparison.
We know that an informed customer is a confident customer. And confident customers make the best long-term solar owners. Quotes help you compare more than just pricing. They help you understand:
Cost per watt ($/W)
System size, efficiency, and output
Warranty terms and workmanship
Monitoring tools and app features
Available rebates and financing
At Greenamp, we welcome comparisons. We're confident in our value and happy to stand alongside any installer in Alberta or the BC Okanagan region. We’re confident our quotes, quality, and service will speak for themselves.
What to Ask When Comparing Solar Quotes
Use these questions to guide your evaluation—and don’t forget to grab your Free Quote Comparison Checklist.
System Design & Cost
What is the total system cost (with GST)?
What is the solar system size (kW)?
What is the Cost per watt?
What is the estimated annual energy output? (How much electricity will the system produce?)
What % of your electricity use will it offset?
Does the supplier use Tier 1 panel/inverter brands?
Quote Details
Is it a full turn-key system?
Are there upgrade options or hidden fees?
What are the payment terms?
Installation Quality
Are licensed electricians performing the work?
Will wiring be routed through the attic?
Is exterior wiring protected in conduit?
Warranties & Monitoring
What are the standard equipment and workmanship warranties?
Is an extended warranty available?
Does the system include monitoring apps for solar production and electricity consumption?
Will the installar provide support after system activation?
Financing & Incentives
Are you eligible for the Canada Greener Homes Loan?
Are there any Local/municipal rebates for solar systems, EV chargers, or battery backups?
Are there $0-down financing options?
Real Customers. Real Results.
“Must Recommend! Fantastic Service and Installation, I did several quotes before I decided to go with Greenamp (7 in total) and I am so happy with my decision.”
“Greenamp service and install process was amazing. Their pricing was the best quote that I received of 8 different providers. Would highly recommend.”
Download Your Free Solar Quote Comparison Checklist
We created a two-page PDF checklist to help you:
Compare solar quotes side-by-side
Ask smarter questions
Avoid hidden costs and low-quality equipment
FAQ: Comparing Solar Quotes in Alberta & the Okanagan
What’s a good cost per watt for solar in Alberta or BC?
$2.50–$3.00/W is a competitive range in 2025, depending on your location and equipment quality.
Are solar brokers unbiased?
Not entirely. Most work only with installers who pay them commissions, which limits your options.
Do rebates work the same in Alberta and the Okanagan?
The Canada Greener Homes Grant is national, but local rebates vary by city and utility.
How do I calculate cost per watt?
Divide the total system cost by the DC system size in watts.
Example: $18,000 Ă· 6500 W (6.5 kW) = $2.77/W
Can I go solar if my roof is partially shaded?
Yes, but ideally your system design should use optimizers or microinverters for optimal solar production.
Final Thoughts
Going solar is one of the smartest home improvements you can make—but only if you choose the right provider.
By comparing quotes, asking the right questions, and choosing a team that’s transparent and experienced, you’ll set yourself up for long-term savings and peace of mind.
If you're in Alberta or the Okanagan, Greenamp is ready to help—no pressure, just expert advice and high-quality service.
