Solar Expert Starts Business to Shine Light on Best Value for Consumers
Solar Quote Check supports homeowners, small businesses and nonprofits looking to install clean energy through online tools and advocacy
Dever Haffner-Ratliffe, a solar power industry veteran and recognized expert, has formally launched Solar Quote Check, a solar-focused consumer protection consultancy and website.
The new business will support individuals and organizations navigating solar, including reviewing solar quotes, creating requests for proposals, assessing performance issues, and reporting illegal and unethical solar business practices to regulators.
Haffner-Ratliffe says the business is a response to the growing number of consumer protection complaints filed against solar companies.
“It breaks my heart when I hear about seniors spending their retirement on an overpriced solar array because of inaccurate information and aggressive sales tactics,” Haffner-Ratliffe said. “Solar can be a fantastic investment and way to support renewable energy, but consumers need someone other than a commissioned sales person to help answer their questions.”
Dever Haffner-Ratliffe has 15 years of solar experience, including co-founding the Washington Solar Energy Industries Association, working as a solar expert for multiple state agencies, as well as working for an electric utility. She began her career in solar running South Sound Solar, an Olympia-based solar installation company founded by her late father, Kirk Haffner. Dever’s hope is that Solar Quote Check will allow her to use her knowledge and expertise to help homeowners and businesses with their solar situation.
Solar Quote Check will not have any financial interest in whether their customers decide to buy solar or not. The company will bill based on time or a pre-negotiated flat fee. The business also offers a free 30-minute consultation and a free solar calculator. Haffner-Ratliffe also hosts informational webinars, mostly recently about buying and selling homes that have a solar installation.
“The consequences of a bad solar contract can be devastating, especially to those already in tight financial situations,” Haffner-Ratliffe said. “We’ve seen people stuck in contracts for $100,000, but the solar panels don’t even produce energy.”
Solar Quote Check provides analysis and expert guidance to clients considering solar or stuck in a bad solar situation. Solar Quote Check also provides law firms, journalists, and general audiences unbiased and data-driven information on solar.
Solar Quote Check is based in Washington State, but is available to consult nationwide.
For more information about the company or to schedule a time to discuss solar, visit www.solarquotecheck.com.
