Getting the Best Solar Deal in Kenya
Solar installation is a significant investment. These insider tips will help you get maximum value.
Before You Get Quotes
Know Your Consumption
- Get last 6 months of Kenya Power bills
- Calculate average monthly kWh
- Identify peak usage times
- Note any planned changes (new appliances, expansion)
Understand Your Roof
- Age and condition
- Orientation (north-facing is ideal)
- Shading from trees or buildings
- Available space
Getting Quotes
Get Multiple Quotes
- Minimum 3 quotes from different installers
- Ensure quotes are for equivalent systems
- Compare component brands and warranties
- Ask for itemized breakdowns
What Should Be Included
- Solar panels (brand, wattage, quantity)
- Inverter (brand, capacity)
- Battery (if applicable - brand, capacity)
- Mounting system
- Wiring and accessories
- Installation labor
- Permits (if required)
- Commissioning
- Warranty terms
Negotiation Strategies
Timing Matters
Best times to negotiate:
- End of month/quarter (sales targets)
- Rainy season (slower demand)
- November-December (year-end deals)
What is Negotiable
- Overall price (5-15% typically)
- Installation charges
- Extended warranty
- Additional panels/battery
- Service packages
- Payment terms
Effective Negotiation Phrases
- "I have a quote from [competitor] for KES X"
- "What is your best cash price?"
- "Can you include the installation/ATS at this price?"
- "I am ready to proceed today if the price is right"
Red Flags to Watch
Avoid Installers Who:
- Cannot provide ERC license number
- Refuse to give references
- Pressure you to decide immediately
- Quote significantly below market
- Cannot explain component choices
- Have no physical office
Watch Out For:
- Tier-2 or Tier-3 panels sold as premium
- Undersized systems
- Hidden costs in contracts
- Vague warranty terms
- No after-sales support plan
Payment Tips
Cash vs Financing
Cash Advantages:
- 5-10% discount typically
- No interest payments
- Full ownership immediately
Financing Advantages:
- Preserve cash flow
- Start saving immediately
- Spread cost over time
Payment Schedule
Recommended structure:
- 30-40% deposit on signing
- 40-50% on delivery of equipment
- 10-20% on commissioning/completion
After Installation
Documentation to Receive
- System design documentation
- Equipment warranties
- Installation certificate
- User manuals
- Maintenance schedule
- Emergency contact information
First Month Checks
- Monitor daily production
- Compare to expected output
- Report any issues immediately
- Verify monitoring system works
Contact Emerson EiMS
For transparent, professional solar installation:
- Phone: +254 768 860 665 / +254 782 914 717
- Email: info@emersoneims.com
- Free site assessment in Nairobi area
ERC licensed. Quality components. Honest pricing.