Buyer's Guide · Updated April 2026
How to Choose a Solar Installer in the Philippines — 10 Questions to Ask
The Philippine solar market has hundreds of installers — from certified engineering firms to backyard operators. Before you sign anything, ask these 10 questions. The answers will tell you everything.
Why this matters more than price
A solar PV system is a 25-year investment on your roof. The cheapest quote rarely reflects the full cost — and a poorly installed system can cause roof leaks, electrical fires, voided warranties, and failed net metering applications. Once the contractor leaves, you are on your own.
These 10 questions are designed to reveal the difference between a professional installation company and a reseller or subcontractor operation. A good installer will answer all of them confidently and in writing.
Is your quote all-inclusive?
Critical questionWhy it matters: Many installers quote hardware only — then add labour, mounting, cabling, permits, and VAT as separate line items. The final cost can be 30–50% higher than the initial figure.
“Yes — our quote includes hardware, mounting, all cabling, labour, LGU permit, net metering application, and VAT. The number you see is the number you pay.”
“That's just the hardware cost. We'll add labour and other items separately.”
What tier are the solar panels you're proposing?
Critical questionWhy it matters: "Tier 1" is a BloombergNEF financial bankability classification — it means the manufacturer has secured project financing at scale, not that the panel is higher quality. That said, Tier 1-listed manufacturers (Jinko, Trina, LONGi, Canadian Solar) tend to carry the product and performance warranties that the company can actually honor long-term. Avoid unbranded or unknown-brand panels where warranty support is uncertain.
“We exclusively install Tier 1 panels — Jinko Tiger Neo, Trina Vertex N, or equivalent. We can show you the manufacturer's warranty documentation.”
“We use quality panels. / The brand isn't important, the specs matter.”
Who actually does the installation — your own team or subcontractors?
Why it matters: Many solar companies act as brokers — they take your order and subcontract the installation to the lowest bidder. Quality control is nearly impossible when the people doing the work have no relationship with the company.
“Our system is designed by our in-house Professional Electrical Engineers (PEE) — not subcontractors. Physical installation is carried out by our own trained technicians and licensed RMEs under PEE supervision. The same team owns the entire job.”
“We work with accredited partner installers in your area.”
Is there a Professional Electrical Engineer (PEE) signing off on every installation?
Critical questionWhy it matters: Under RA 7920 and the Philippine Electrical Code, a PEE must sign and seal the electrical plans submitted for the LGU building/electrical permit. Without a PEE's signature, the permit application is invalid — and without the LGU permit, you cannot apply for net metering.
“Yes — every installation is designed and signed off by our in-house PEE. We prepare and submit the LGU permit documents as part of our service.”
“We have experienced technicians who handle everything.”
Do you handle the Meralco net metering application?
Why it matters: Under DOE DC2026-01-00012, Meralco has a mandated 10 working-day window to process the net metering application once documents are complete. In practice the total timeline from application to bidirectional meter installation is typically 4–8 weeks, including scheduling, inspection coordination, and meter changeover. Many installers hand you a pile of forms and leave you to figure it out.
“Yes — we prepare all documents, submit the application, and follow up with Meralco until your bidirectional meter is installed. No paperwork on your end.”
“We can guide you through the process. / You'll need to submit that yourself.”
How is the system sized — what data do you use?
Why it matters: Generic sizing based on "average" data produces systems that are either too small (you keep a large Meralco bill) or too large (you generate excess you can't use and forfeit at year-end).
“We use your actual GPS coordinates to fetch NASA satellite solar data for your location, and your actual Meralco bill to determine your consumption. The system is sized to match your specific usage.”
“We use regional averages for the Philippines. / Based on your bill we recommend a 5kWp system.”
What warranties are included — and from whom?
Why it matters: There are two types of warranty to understand: the manufacturer's product warranty (on the hardware) and the installer's workmanship warranty (on the installation itself). Both matter.
“Panels carry two separate warranties: a 12–15 year product (materials/defect) warranty and a 25–30 year performance (power output) warranty — both from the manufacturer. The inverter carries its own manufacturer warranty (typically 5–10 years). We provide a separate workmanship warranty on the installation. Full details are in the installation agreement.”
“The system comes with a 5-year warranty. / The panels are warranted for 10 years.”
Can you provide references from recent customers in my area?
Why it matters: Any legitimate installer should be able to connect you with recent customers who can speak to the quality of the work, how the company handled issues, and whether the system is performing as promised.
“Absolutely — here are three customers in your area who had similar systems installed in the past 6 months. Feel free to contact them directly.”
“We're not able to share customer information.”
What happens if something goes wrong after installation?
Why it matters: The solar industry has a high rate of small company failures. A company that doesn't exist in 5 years cannot honor your warranty or fix your inverter.
“We have a dedicated after-sales team. We actively monitor system performance and will alert you to any issues. Our workmanship warranty covers installation defects and we have direct service agreements with our hardware suppliers.”
“Just contact us and we'll send someone. / The manufacturer handles warranty claims.”
Is your financial projection honest about CapEx milestones?
Critical questionWhy it matters: Inverters need replacement around Year 10–11. Batteries need replacement around Year 8–10. Installers who don't account for these costs in their payback calculations are presenting misleadingly short payback periods.
“Yes — our 25-year projection includes inverter replacement at Year 11 and battery replacement at Year 8–10 for hybrid systems. We model panel degradation at 0.5%/year. You see the real picture.”
“Your payback period is 3 years! / Solar pays for itself in no time.”
Red flags — walk away if you see these
Sources & References
TrueSouth answers all 10 questions — in writing
Start with a free personalised proposal — all-inclusive pricing, Tier 1 hardware, licensed engineers, and full net metering support.
Get My Free Solar ProposalFree · No sign-up · PDF delivered instantly