Solar design tips, sales advice, and industry insights from the premier solar design software platform
The annual Solar Jobs Census conducted by The Solar Foundation is the most comprehensive and rigorous analysis of solar industry employment. We explore the results of the 2018 Census and what they show about solar jobs in 2018, expectations for 2019, current hiring challenges, diversity, and more!
Gwen Brown
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) conducted a two-year study which identified common solar sales mistakes that can cost you the sale. In the second article of our series exploring these findings, we discuss the importance of not assuming leads share your opinions about solar.
Sara Carbone
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) conducted a two-year study which identified common mistakes in the solar sales process that can cost you the sale. In the first article of our series exploring these findings, we examine why fast follow up with leads is essential.
Sara Carbone
An underperforming PV system is a customer’s nightmare. We explore a solar installation that was underperforming for an unknown reason. O&M firm Omnidian detected the issue and used Aurora solar design software to remotely diagnose the service it needed. We share the story—and impressive results!
Gwen Brown
Understanding the solar irradiance at a project site is crucial to designing a high-performing solar installation. Aurora's latest update, which provides irradiance values on the surface of each module, makes accurate solar design even easier. We explore some of the benefits for solar contractors.
Gwen Brown
Many solar companies report difficulty filling their solar jobs with qualified candidates. A new hiring tool, the HBCU Talent Exchange, could help change that. The patented program uses surveys to better match candidates and jobs, while also helping companies connect with diverse applicants.
Gwen Brown
Having literally “written the book” on commercial solar, Jim Jenal, founder and CEO of solar installation company Run on Sun, has a wealth of information on what contributes to a positive customer experience in commercial solar projects. We compile some of Jenal’s commercial solar insights .
Sara Carbone
Snow on solar panels can decrease the amount of energy they produce throughout the year. Yet it can be difficult to know how to account for these snow losses because of variation across locations and system designs. Data from NREL can help solar contractors determine the appropriate snow loss factor.
Andrew Gong
There are a number of important differences between residential solar and commercial solar projects for contractors. Whether you're considering adding commercial solar to your contracting business or want to understand how different sectors compare, our overview of 5 key differences has you covered.
Gwen Brown
Over the lifetime of a PV system, operations and maintenance (O&M) can be important in ensuring that the system achieves optimal power production. We explore what solar O&M involves and considerations for contracting companies regarding whether to offer O&M services, directly or through a partner.
Sara Carbone