How to Verify a Solar Company Before Signing a Contract

In the burgeoning East African solar market, the promise of clean, affordable energy is attracting a host of new players. While this growth is positive, it also creates a “buyer beware” environment where due diligence is not just recommended, it is essential.

Before you sign any contract, a thorough verification of your chosen solar company is the most critical step to protect your investment. This guide provides a checklist for verifying a solar company in East Africa, with a focus on the resources available in Kenya as a regional benchmark.

The Foundation of Trust: Official Verification

Your first and most important step is to verify a company’s legal and regulatory standing. In Kenya, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) is the primary body responsible for licensing all solar PV contractors. Do not take a company’s word for it; check the official register yourself.

Actionable Step: Visit the EPRA website and search for the “Register of Active Solar PV Contractor/Vendor”. Cross-reference the company’s name and license number. Ensure their license is current and that the class of license (e.g., V1, V2, C1) matches the scale of your project.

For other East African countries, seek out the equivalent national energy regulator. In South Africa, for example, the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) and the PV GreenCard program provide similar verification databases.

Read Also: Top 20 Solar Brands Operating in Africa — Ranked by Reliability, Warranty, and Performance

Five Red Flags You Cannot Ignore

Beyond official registration, there are several warning signs that should immediately raise your suspicion. These are not just minor issues; they are indicators of a potentially unreliable and untrustworthy operator.

1. Limited or No Online Presence: A reputable company in this digital age will have a professional website and an active social media presence. A lack of an online footprint is a major red flag, suggesting a lack of transparency and customer engagement.
2. Consistently Low Review Scores: Unbiased review sites like Google and Facebook are invaluable. A pattern of negative reviews, especially if the company does not respond to them, is a clear warning sign.
3. Insufficient or Vague Warranties: A solar system is a long-term investment. The warranty should reflect that. A reputable company will offer a comprehensive warranty covering the entire system, not just the panels. The industry standard is a 25-year performance warranty for panels and at least a 10-year warranty for inverters.
4. Unrealistically Low Prices: If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Unusually low prices often indicate the use of substandard components, which will cost you more in the long run through poor performance and premature failure.
5. Minimal Industry Experience: The solar industry is complex. A company with less than two years of experience and no verifiable track record is a risky proposition. Your solar system should last for decades; your installer should have a history that suggests they will be around to honor their commitments.

The Pre-Contract Checklist: Your Final Line of Defense

Before you sign on the dotted line, go through this final checklist. A professional company will have no issue providing this information.

Verifying a solar company is not a step to be skipped or rushed. It is your responsibility as a buyer to protect your investment. By following this guide, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure that you partner with a company that is qualified, reputable, and committed to your long-term energy independence. Do not settle for anything less.