Solar by CIR Reviews

Solar by CIR is a Western New York based Solar installer dedicated to teaching the public about solar and helping to determine if solar is right for their prospective customers. They are known for top-quality, affordable projects that have helped more than 1,300 homeowners, business owners, and communities integrate more sustainable energy choices into their everyday lives.

History: After spending 45 years in electrical services, CIR Electrical Construction Corp. made the quantum leap into renewable energy when it created the Solar by CIR division, dedicated to solar energy. They have an installed capacity of over 20 MW and growing.

Mission Statement: Solar by CIR is committed to affordable solar energy. They aim to help more than 1,300 homeowners, business owners, and communities integrate more sustainable energy choices into their everyday lives.

Core Values: The company is locally owned & operated and has a solid foundation in superior electrical services since 1976. They are a leader in environmental sustainability in their community. They are frequently selected as the preferred solar installer for NYSERDA (New York State Energy Research and Development Authority) Solarize Campaigns.

Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Experience: Solar by CIR has been in the solar installation business since 1976, which means they have extensive experience in the field.
2. Quality: They are known for top-quality, affordable projects.
3. Customer Service: Solar by CIR has received recognition for its top-notch customer service.
4. Local: Being locally owned & operated, they have a solid foundation in superior electrical services.
5. Reputation: They have a generally favorable reputation in the solar energy sector.

Cons

1. Limited Geographic Reach: Solar by CIR primarily serves the state of New York, which may limit their availability to customers outside this area.
2. Service Delays: Some customers have reported delays in service and maintenance.

*Please note that this information is based on the latest available data and may have changed. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend contacting Yes Solar Solutions directly or visiting their official website.

Reviews

Positive Reviews

1. “I was very pleased with all aspects of our purchase and installation of solar panels for our home. From the initial sales, through installation and activation, CIR staff were always polite, professional and competent.”
2. “I had an excellent experience with the CIR Electric Company for solar panels. The staff was extremely knowledgeable and answered all of my questions. The entire team, including Kevin, Jordan, Jacob, Andrew, Matt and the installation crew were professional, efficient and exceeded my expectations. Advance notification of the schedule was very helpful and appreciated. The landscaping and vegetable gardens were not disturbed. I highly recommend CIR.”
3. “Cory’s crew installed an array for us at the end of September. The crew was very respectful and courteous and did an absolutely great job, couldn’t be happier. The system passed inspection without any issues and I would recommend the company to anyone interested!”

Negative Reviews

1. “Approximately 40 days ago it was noted that one of my inverters was not functioning and therefore half of my system is out of service. They ordered a new one and when they went to install it, they were missing a bracket. To this date, the bracket has not come in and my system is still down. My advise is to get a reliability guarantee because without it, the only one that gets damaged is the customer. CIR is taking their sweet time to fix it and based on my over 30 years experience in the power industry, this lackadaisical approach to keeping systems operating wouldn’t fly.”

Source

*Please note that these reviews are based on the latest available data and may have changed. For the most accurate and up-to-date reviews, I recommend visiting the respective platforms directly.

Areas served

Solar by CIR primarily provides solar installation services in the Western New York region, including the Buffalo and Rochester areas. They are known for their solar panel installations throughout these areas.

Services Offered

• Residential and Commercial Solar Panel Installation: They are experts in both residential and commercial solar panel installations. They help homeowners, business owners, and communities integrate more sustainable energy choices into their everyday lives.

• Solar Energy Consultation: Solar by CIR provides consultation services to help you understand if solar is right for you. They conduct a thorough assessment and provide a detailed report of their findings.

• Financing Solutions: They offer a wide variety of renewable energy solutions through their strategic financing partners. Whether you’re interested in upgraded, energy-efficient lighting or an entire power system with backup generators, they can provide you with the services you need.

• Warranty and Service: Solar by CIR offers a 25-30 year warranty and reliable solar panel service.

Brands Sold

Solar Panels: Solar by CIR uses high-quality, trusted brands for all of their solar panels. They use solar panels under the brands REC Premium, Silfab.

Inverters: The company uses inverters under the Enphase brand.

Batteries: Solar by CIR is an authorized installer of Tesla batteries. They can help you understand the different options for battery storage and determine the best battery system for your needs.

Licenses & Certifications

1. NABCEP Certification: Solar by CIR’s staff includes professionals certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). NABCEP is a well-respected certification for renewable energy professionals, demonstrating a high level of competence and adherence to ethical standards.
2. NYSERDA Quality Installer: The company is recognized as a 2023 NYSERDA Quality Installer. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) recognizes high-quality solar installers who consistently meet high standards of performance.

Payment & Financing Options

1. Purchase Outright: This is by far the most attractive return on investment, especially if you borrow to finance the system. Generally, the savings generated will be much larger than the cost of the money borrowed. Purchasing a system qualifies customers for all rebates, tax credits, and revenue from Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) sales, and significantly increases the property value of your home.
2. Loans: CIR works with a variety of lenders for bridge loans for your residential tax credits, and with other financial institutions for the net cost of your project. They are able to offer low-interest loans, some with longer terms, to make payments less than what you’re currently paying for your electric bill. Please ask your CIR representative for a more specific breakdown.
3. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): A Power Purchase Agreement or PPA is a contract between you (the customer) and a third-party financing company which owns, operates, and monitors the solar equipment. In most cases, PPAs are used when a customer does not have the tax appetite or liability to take advantage of the federal and state tax incentives. Common project types include: churches, schools, municipal buildings, fire houses, etc. PPAs provide you with long-term savings with little to no money upfront. These projects also include system monitoring, maintenance contracts, and a low fixed cost of energy. These particular energy systems hedge you against inflation and rising electric rates as well as provide a production guarantee.
4. NYSERDA: New York State’s Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) will provide a cash incentive currently paying $0.35 per watt for residential projects, and $0.45 per watt for small commercial projects under 750kW in size. Incentives vary for projects 200kW and larger.
5. NYS Tax Credit: New York State will provide a 25% income tax credit up to $5,000 that can be used until fulfilled. Excess credit may be carried forward for five years.

Contact Information

Phone Number: (716) 362-5000.

Email: [email protected]

Local Office Address: 4050 W Ridge Rd, Rochester NY, 14626.

Headquarter Address: 2517 Long Rd, Grand Island, NY, 14072.