As solar installations in Connecticut continue to increase, the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), the Office of Consumer Counsel (OCC), and the Connecticut Green Bank want to remind residents that informational resources exist to help guide them through the process of adding solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to their homes. Two suggested resources are GoSolarCT.com and DCP’s Solar Panel Buyer’s Guide.

As of June 2017, nearly 25,000 state residences have installed solar, producing more than 175 MW of clean, renewable power. Through GoSolarCT, the Connecticut Green Bank seeks to make information on the solar process available in one location for homeowners in the state.

“The GoSolarCT website helps Connecticut residents understand the costs, installation, and upkeep of solar projects in one location,” states Bryan Garcia, president and CEO of the Connecticut Green Bank. “This website is an educational outreach tool for Connecticut residents wanting to convert to solar energy. This project and others that educate Connecticut residents on solar installation and renewable energy sources benefits the state and the entire region.”

“There are a lot of different aspects to going solar,” said consumer protection commissioner Michelle H. Seagull. “We want to make sure consumers know who they’ll be interacting with, what credentials those professionals need to have, and what questions they should ask throughout the process. Going solar, like any home improvement related project, is a big investment, and it’s important that consumers do their research before making a commitment.”

GoSolarCT shares pertinent information in an easy, interactive way for Connecticut homeowners and includes a glossary of terms, a potential energy savings calculator and a list of frequently asked questions and answers.

The GoSolarCT website identifies four key areas for people considering installing solar products:

• How solar works
• Selecting a contractor and various financing options
• The installation process
• Ongoing maintenance

“I’m delighted the Connecticut Green Bank and DCP are assisting customers with these guidance resources,” stated consumer counsel Elin Swanson Katz. “My office has handled occasional inquiries from customers looking into solar, but are struggling with weighing financing options, choosing a contractor, and understanding savings estimates. It is important that customers feel that they have made a well-informed choice with regard to this major decision, and these resources should make the process both reassuring and hopefully exciting. I commend the Connecticut Green Bank and DCP and look forward to continuing to work in partnership with them to promote solar growth and understanding.”