About Solar Planner Guide

Solar Planner Guide is an independent resource that helps homeowners evaluate solar energy realistically, understanding costs, incentives, installer contracts, and what going solar actually involves before committing to a system.

Meet the Editor

Alex Rivera is the editor behind Solar Planner Guide.

Alex Rivera designs solar systems for a living, working on projects ranging from rooftop residential arrays to small commercial installations. With a background in electrical engineering, he brings precise technical knowledge to what is often an oversimplified conversation. At Solar Planner Guide, he covers system sizing, panel specifications, inverter selection, and the engineering decisions that determine long-term output.

What We Cover

Solar Planner Guide covers residential solar from every angle, system sizing, panel types and efficiency, installation costs by state, the federal tax credit (ITC), state incentive programs, net metering policies, financing options (cash, loan, lease, PPA), installer vetting, and realistic payback timelines.

Our Approach

We don’t partner with installers. We don’t earn referral fees when you get quotes. Our job is to explain how this industry works so you can make a better decision for your home.

All cost data and incentive information is sourced from NREL, SEIA, DSIRE, and published installer market data, updated regularly as prices and programs change.

Disclaimer

Solar Planner Guide provides general informational content. Alex Rivera is a researcher, not a licensed electrical contractor or solar installer. System costs, savings, and incentive eligibility vary significantly by location and home. Always obtain multiple quotes from licensed installers and verify incentive programs with your utility before making a purchase decision.

Affiliate Disclosure

Some links on this site are Amazon affiliate links for solar monitoring equipment and related products. Purchases may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Contact

Questions or corrections? Contact us here.