A common practice in the solar industry (and other home improvement industries) is sending out independent contractors (also known as “sales professionals”, or sales reps) to canvass neighborhoods looking for potential customers. The goal is to “self-generate” a lead. Companies also put together teams of canvassers who are called “appointment setters” (AP). Appointment setters do not try to sell solar at the door, but rather, set an appointment for a sales representative to come the the home with a prepared presentation of some kind hoping to get a contract signed in the first visit. These sales visits are known as the “one stop close”. The theory, is that the best chance to get a sale is at this first appointment. Unfortunately, the customer experience with the “one-stop close” is often high pressure. After-all, the customer is trying to make a decision about a large purchase with only one visit to the home.

When an appointment setter comes to the home its a two-step process wherein the appointment setter arranges for the sales representative to come to the home at a later day and time. However, sales representatives are usually encouraged to cold call and knock doors on their own, without the use of appointment setters. In this case, the sales professional does the canvassing him/her self and then tries to follow up at a later time to close the deal. The ideal, is for the sales professional to close the sale with a “one-stop close”. In my mind, this is nuts! The average cost of a residential solar system in Utah is around $30,000. Who would sign a contract in one unscheduled cold call at the door? Does it happen often? The answer is YES. Minnis Solar Consultants, LLC does not recommend the consumer to make a purchase in this manner, and I think most people would agree that some research and learning would be imperative to making a solid decision to purchase a solar system

If you are thinking about solar as an option to save money on your power bill, and reduce you long-term costs of purchasing electricity from your power company, solar may be a good option for you. To find out more CLICK HERE. We recommend getting informed, gathering information and consulting about your unique situation.

Unfortunately, misinformed sales representatives, or intentionally dishonest sales representatives have sold solar without upholding any reasonable level of professional consultation methods. The results can be devastating for the consumer and put a black eye on the solar industry. Although its not super common, we do meet customers who have been the victim of bad information or deceptive marketing/representations in the solar arena.

We are here to help you avoid making a mistake. Sure, we could blame the victim, but Minnis Solar Consultants, LLC believes that the responsibility falls on the solar company and individuals representing to the public that they are experts in the solar industry. If there is an area of tax law, or technical aspects of a potential job that we do not fully understand, we refer our customers to additional resources for evaluation.

Sometimes, knowing one’s own limitations is of utmost importance. Would you agree? To schedule a phone call, or an appointment at your home CLICK HERE

Duane A. Minnis

Minnis Solar Consultants, LLC

Owner