Solar is a big investment — ₱200,000 to ₱500,000+. Choosing the wrong installer can mean wasted money, safety hazards, or a system that underperforms for 25 years.
1. No PEC License
Every solar installer should have a Professional Electrical Engineer (PEE) or Registered Electrical Engineer (REE) license, plus PEC compliance certification.
Ask: "Can I see your PEC license number?" If they hesitate — walk away.
2. No Written Quotation or Bill of Materials
A professional installer provides a detailed, itemized quotation including exact panel brand/model, inverter, battery, all hardware, labor, and grand total with breakdown.
Red flag: "We'll give you the total price, no need for a breakdown."
Tip: Use our free Solar Quotation Tool to generate your own BOM and verify the installer's pricing.
3. Missing Safety Components
A proper installation MUST include:
DC and AC surge protection devices (SPD)
Grounding system
Circuit breakers — DC and AC disconnects
Distribution box
Net metering enclosure (if applying)
Some installers skip these to lower their quote. This is dangerous and violates the Philippine Electrical Code.
4. Unrealistic Promises
Watch out for:
"Your electric bill will be ZERO" (you still pay the minimum charge)
"Payback in 1 year" (typical is 3-5 years)
"Our panels last 50 years" (realistic is 25-30 years)
"You'll earn money from Meralco" (export rate is lower than retail rate)
5. No Warranty Documentation
You should receive:
Panel warranty — 25-year product, 30-year performance
Inverter warranty — 5-10 years
Battery warranty — 10 years (LiFePO4)
Workmanship warranty — at least 1-2 years from installer
All documentation in writing
How to Find a Trusted Installer
Get quotes from multiple installers — at least 3
Compare their BOM line by line
Check their past projects — ask for photos and references
Verify their PEC license
Use SolarEnergyPH to get matched with verified installers in your province — it's free
Engr. Jason Morales — Founder, SolarEnergyPH