How to Start a Solar Panel Business: Installer, Sales or Dealer Models
How to get into the solar energy business
In this article
To start a solar panel business, pick a model: solar sales/dealer (lowest cost, you sell and partner with installers), full installer (you design and install systems), or a niche like maintenance, cleaning or off-grid systems. Then get training (such as NABCEP), the licences your state requires (often electrical or solar contractor), insurance, supplier and financing partners, and a steady flow of qualified leads.
Choose your business model
| Model | Startup cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Solar sales / dealer | Low | Sell systems, installer partner does the work |
| Residential installer | Medium–high | Full control, needs licensed crew |
| Commercial installer | High | Bigger projects, more expertise |
| Solar maintenance and cleaning | Low | Recurring service work |
| Off-grid and battery storage | Medium | Rural and backup power niche |
Step 1: Get trained
Learn solar design, electrical basics, roofing and mounting, permits and interconnection, incentives and customer financing. NABCEP certifications are widely respected.
Step 2: Licences and insurance
Many states require a licensed electrician or a solar/electrical contractor licence for installs, and roofing work may need a roofing licence. Get general liability, workers' comp and commercial auto. Sales-only businesses may need a home improvement salesperson licence in some states.
Step 3: Suppliers and financing
Open accounts with solar distributors for panels, inverters, batteries and racking. Partner with solar loan and lease providers; most customers finance their systems.
Step 4: Startup costs
| Item | Rough cost |
|---|---|
| Training and certification | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Licences and insurance | $5,000 – $20,000 per year |
| Tools, ladders, safety gear | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Truck or van | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Design and CRM software | $100 – $1,000 per month |
| Marketing and lead generation | $2,000 – $20,000+ |
A sales-only model can start for much less.
Step 5: Get customers
- A website with savings calculator and quote form
- Google Business Profile and reviews
- Referral programs (solar customers love to refer)
- Roofing and electrical company partnerships
- Community events and home shows
Related: Is the solar energy business profitable?, How do solar companies work? and How to start an electrician business.
Frequently asked questions
How do I start a solar panel business?
Choose a model, get trained, get licensed and insured, set up suppliers and financing partners, and generate leads.
How do I get into the solar energy business?
Start in solar sales or join an installer to learn, then start your own company.
Do I need a licence to install solar panels?
Many states require an electrical or solar contractor licence; check your state.
How much does it cost to start a solar business?
From a few thousand for sales-only to $50,000+ for an installer.
What certification do solar installers need?
NABCEP is the best-known; state licences may also be required.
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Start a conversationWritten by Sachin Rawat
AI & automation engineer · websites, apps and motion design
I build AI agents, automations, websites, apps and motion design for businesses. These guides answer the questions people actually search, written from hands-on experience building them.
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