Solar Installer Reviews

Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric

Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric Review

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Company Information

Headquarters:
63 Sams Branch Rd Candler, NC 28715 United States

All Reviews


lancingtn01 | USA
Sep 14, 2021

We selected Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric as our solar system designer and installer by comparing their negotiated final bid with those of two other western North Carolina solar companies and one large regional solar company. We weighed heavily the details and costs of different systems and our interpretation of the technical merits and the forthrightness of the people we talked with. We selected a near zero-metering system with some restrictions on roof location and panel array size. Rhino designed a 30 solar panel array (about 12.9 kW) using a Sol-Ark 12kW inverter/controller with a 15 kW battery backup system for those all too common nightly grid outages which happen a few times a year in our Blue Ridge area. I was slightly surprised and reassured when Rhino’s system designer and vice president turned up to be one of the installation crew, carefully lifting many of the 55-pound panels up to the roof of our home. Without hesitancy, I was impressed with all the Rhino crew for their efficiency and diligence installing our system. They even let me help them, at no additional cost! Everything about Rhino's design has worked well even when dealing with a new edition of the Sol-Ark inverter-controller. So far, so good. We have been operating the photovoltaic array for about 45 days within the late July to early September period (2021). Our first bill from Duke Energy arrived recently and we had no net billable kWh and extra kWh credits for our future nightly energy resupply from Duke. Yes, that will change to a net Duke power demand in the coming winter’s short days. So, we have yet to learn much. We had some delays in installation due to international shipping constraints for some components (like so many other commodities during our ongoing pandemic). But everything got done within 30 days of starting with a total of only 3 crew days on site. They all were very accommodating of my many questions as we progressed. I consider myself fairly knowledgeable about home electrical systems as I have installed complete home electric systems in our previous two homes (but not solar). A neighboring handyman commented that the installation in our garage was really neatly done in both the wiring and arrangement of components. I concur. We had our solar system array turned on July 28, this year. That was the day Duke Energy put in the new meter and they gave us formal permission to operate (i.e., turn on the photovoltaic array). We have approximately 45 days of operating experience. As we worked, I talked some with Rhino about future possible modifications (i.e., more solar panels, additional batteries, or a second inverter) and how those changes could be done so that we are aware of such costs. We even roughed in a circuit for a future electric car charger in the garage. We now plan to gain a year of experience with our system to learn what (if anything) might merit improvement. One thing I have learned, based on our critical circuits analysis (prior to our final design) is that we spend about a quarter of our electric energy, either from the grid or from our solar system, merely heating a conventional water heater. Very soon, we plan to replace this water heater with an electric heat pump type which should lower this fraction of our energy use to about 7%. Its cost can be also claimed as a federal tax credit and, thus, will pay for itself within two years. The Sol-Ark data monitoring system allows us to observe our home’s energy demands and steers us to smarter decisions about how and when we use all our appliances. Brian S., Brevard, NC

States Served

NC

What To Look For In A Solar Installer?

When looking for a solar installer, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure you choose a reputable and competent company that meets your needs.

When selecting an installer like Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric consider:

Experience and Reputation:

Look for a company with a solid track record and years of experience in the solar industry. Read the latest Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric solar reviews from past customers to gauge their reputation.

Certifications and Licenses:

Ensure the installer holds the necessary licenses and certifications required in your area. Look for certifications from organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) to verify their expertise.

Quality Products and Technology:

Inquire about the types and brands of solar panels, inverters, and other equipment they use. Quality matters for long-term performance. Ask if they offer the latest solar technologies, such as high-efficiency panels or energy storage solutions.

Learn more: Best Solar Panels for Homes | Top Solar Batteries

Warranty Information:

Understand the warranties they offer for equipment and workmanship. A reputable installer should provide comprehensive warranties. The majority of modern solar panels are equipped with a warranty spanning 20 to 30 years, encompassing both the product's integrity and its energy output. An ordinary workmanship warranty offered by a certified company typically provides coverage for solar panels for an average period of 10 years.

Transparent Pricing and Contracts:

Get detailed solar quotes that include all costs, from equipment and labor to permits and inspections. Review the contract carefully to ensure it's clear and transparent, with no hidden fees or surprises.

Local Knowledge:

Choose a company familiar with local building codes, regulations, and permitting processes. This can expedite the installation and ensure compliance.

Customized Design:

Look for companies who provide custom solar system designs tailored to your specific energy needs and property characteristics.

Energy Production Estimates:

The installer should provide accurate estimates of how much energy the system will generate, factoring in local climate conditions and other key influences. If your estimated solar savings are much higher with one solar company, you'll want to inquire further to ensure their savings projections aren't skewed to close the sale. Connect with us for a free estimate.

Financing Options:

Inquire about solar financing options, including purchase, lease, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). Ensure you know the pros and cons of each option.

Customer Service:

Assess their responsiveness and willingness to answer your questions and concerns and consider the installer's commitment to your project satisfaction. Throughout your solar process we’ll advocate for you, ensuring your solar project is done right.

References and Recommendations:

Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have installed solar panels. Ask the installer for references from past clients who can share their experiences. You can also read the latest reviews on Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric.

Multiple Quotes:

Don't hesitate to obtain quotes from multiple installers to compare pricing, services, and warranties. Hint: We can help!

Financing and Incentive Knowledge:

Ensure the installer is knowledgeable about available incentives, tax credits, rebates and financing options. At EnergyPal, we’ll help maximize your savings.

Safety Practices:

Confirm that the installer adheres to safety protocols during installation to protect both workers and your property.

By researching and considering these factors, you can select a reputable solar installer who will provide a quality solar energy system and a positive experience throughout the installation process. Connect with us to learn more about the best solar installers in your area.

How Do I Compare Solar Installation Options?

To make an informed decision when comparing solar installation options, start by determining your energy needs and seeking multiple quotes from reputable installers. Examine the quality of equipment, evaluate proposed system designs, and consider financing options, factoring in total costs and long-term savings. Assess warranties, support, and the installer's experience while also checking for customer feedback and references. Gauge their responsiveness and customer service, ensuring they educate you about the process. Consider an installer's licensing, and certifications. Request accurate energy production estimates and review contracts for transparency. By evaluating these factors, you can confidently choose the solar installation option that aligns with your energy goals and budget. Connect with us for a free quote.

Steps for Installing Solar Panels

  • Qualification: Contact solar companies through web forms, referrals, or flyers. Answer questions to determine eligibility.
  • System Design: Receive initial solar system design in a proposal. Review the design and consider panel placement, avoiding “under-sizing“ or “oversizing.“
  • Compare Quotes: Evaluate quotes, considering factors like monthly payments, power output, and system details. Seek guidance to simplify the comparison.
  • Contract Signing: Select a company and panel design, understand and sign the contract.
  • Site Survey: Technician assesses the site for solar panel installation, checking roof orientation and structural integrity.
  • Engineering: Behind-the-scenes process finalizes system layout, electrical configuration, and structural safety for permit submission.
  • Permitting: The company obtains necessary permits and approvals, ensuring compliance with regulations.
  • Installation: Expert team mounts panels, installs wiring and inverters, connects the system to the grid.
  • System Activation: Request final inspections, obtain permission to operate (PTO) from the utility, and turn on the system. Monitoring apps track power generation. From a signed contract to installation and system activation this process can take two to six months to complete. Check out our article for a more indepth look into the solar installation process.

Local Installers, Tax Credits, And Rebates In Your State

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Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric Solar Review Conclusion

Prior to making a decision to work with Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric, homeowners should thoroughly review multiple solar installation providers and quotes. This ensures they can secure the most suitable choices, advantages, and cost-effectiveness that align with their specific requirements.

Our impartial advisors are here with your best interests in mind. We listen, educate, and guide you to ensure you find the energy solution that's the perfect fit for your home.

We provide free custom designs tailored precisely to your home's unique requirements, allowing you to compare programs side by side.

Get a free custom quote on your solar system

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