NOTE: This was originally posted in 2022. We updated it in June 2024 to reflect the latest information.
Like peanut butter and jelly or salt and pepper, roofing and solar go incredibly well together in a contracting business portfolio.
If you’re considering whether to add solar to your roofing business, you’ve come to the right place… and at the right time.
After over a decade of growth, the solar industry shows no long-term signs of slowing down. By 2032, the global PV market is projected to reach $300.3 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3%.
If you’re interested in learning what it takes to try to get your piece of the solar pie, this guide will show you the basics involved in getting started.
The benefits of solar for roofing businesses
Incorporating solar energy services into your current business model can lead to more revenue, a greener reputation, and a competitive edge in the roofing industry. Below are just some of the core reasons why roofers are increasingly adding solar installations to their service portfolios.
Increased revenue opportunities
In the growing solar energy market, roofers are well positioned to add PV installations to their services. Already experienced in rooftop home upgrades, you can seamlessly integrate solar into your existing offerings. Despite concerns about the technical difficulties involved, advancements in PV technology and the industry’s growth make it more feasible than ever for contractors to start installing solar panels.
Whether you’re selling PV installation services to existing customers or using them to attract new clients, adding solar to your portfolio can help create new revenue streams and improve your bottom line.
Enhanced brand image and reputation
Embracing renewable energy is crucial in a world already feeling the effects of climate change. Offering both roofing and solar services highlights your commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving local air quality. This eco-friendly approach can make customers more likely to choose your company over others or recommend your services to friends, family, and neighbors.
In effect, combining both services allows you to get paid for making the world a better place.
Competitive advantage in the roofing industry
Despite its growing popularity, solar energy remains a relatively new concept for many homeowners. This presents an excellent opportunity for roofers to educate customers on the benefits of clean and renewable solar power. By outlining financial incentives for installing solar and demonstrating how a PV system can reduce energy costs, you can establish yourself as a knowledgeable resource committed to providing value.
Offering related services together with bundled pricing and efficient project timelines can help you win over customers who might otherwise consider separate roofing and solar contractors.
Become a credible solar resource for your community
Adding solar installations to your list of services isn’t automatic. However, getting started and developing the necessary technical, financial, and regulatory expertise may be easier than you think.
Below are some insights to help you navigate this transition.
Addressing common solar power myths
Some homeowners believe that adding a PV system could damage their roof, leading to leaks, floods, or worse after installing a rooftop array. In reality, roof damage from solar panels is very rare. As a company offering both roofing and PV systems, you can ensure complete control over the installation process to guarantee high-quality results.
When integrating solar energy into your business model, you might feel the need to know every detail about how it works and worry about extensive upfront research. Thankfully, you can roll out your solar energy services in various ways to best fit your business — whether this means through strategic partnerships, joining a dealer network, subcontracting, and more.
Developing solar expertise
You can break into the solar industry through two primary approaches: forming partnerships or pursuing training and certification. Many roofers find it beneficial to start with one method before transitioning to the other.
Here’s how you can begin.
Partnering with established PV experts
If you’re ready to start selling solar immediately, consider partnering with existing PV experts. These partnerships can streamline your sales, design, and operations processes, significantly enhancing your efficiency and customer satisfaction. Rather than starting your own PV division, you can collaborate with an established solar company in your area to access local expertise and generate new referral business in a mutually beneficial relationship.
Working together, roofing and solar contractors can offer complementary services and, in some instances, bundled financing for roof and solar projects. To find reliable solar partnerships, reach out directly to highly reviewed companies online or seek out established PV businesses at your next local trade show.
When discussing potential partnerships, emphasize the unique benefits of collaborating with your roofing company — whether it’s a large pool of leads, superior services, or decades of experience in the home contracting business.
Solar training and certification
Starting a solar business internally requires more setup and training – both on the sales and installation sides. However, numerous resources are available to help streamline this process and ensure your team is well-prepared.
Earning a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification can significantly boost your credibility. This certification is the most widely recognized standard for solar industry professionals today. By helping your key employees earn a NABCEP certification, you can enhance your company’s reputation and appeal to potential customers and business partners.
In 2016, the Department of Energy launched the Solar Training and Education for Professionals (STEP) program, funding PV education initiatives across the country. These services, including those provided by The Solar Foundation (for veterans) and the Electric Power Research Institute, continue to be valuable resources for training your staff.
Using these training programs and certifications can equip your team with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the PV industry, ultimately leading to higher customer satisfaction and business growth.
Navigating solar regulations and permitting
If you perform PV installations in-house, you’ll also need to navigate the solar permitting process effectively. Understanding and managing these solar regulations is crucial for ensuring compliance and delivering value to your customers.
In many jurisdictions, you need a licensed electrician to obtain PV permits and apply for grid interconnections. Navigating the permitting process with local building authorities and utilities can be complex, but it is essential for ensuring your business can offer efficient (and legal) PV services.
For more information, please see our guide to Getting Started with Solar Permitting.
Marketing and promoting solar services
As a roofing and solar contractor, you have a unique advantage in marketing directly to your existing customers. After earning their trust with high-quality workmanship on a new roof, you can inform them that the best time to add PV panels is right after a roof replacement, as both products will last for decades.
Whether you are launching a new solar division, partnering with a PV installer, or simply adding solar systems to your list of services, maintaining consistent branding is key to your campaign’s success. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel; instead, leverage your existing marketing channels such as fliers, online ads, and trade show promotions to advertise your solar services.
In addition to traditional marketing campaigns, explore unique channels to promote local solar energy services. Creating online profiles on PV industry sites and partnering with related companies, such as panel manufacturers, suppliers, and solar financiers, can enhance your digital reputation and attract new business.
Here are some additional solar sales resources for your marketing team:
- The Solar Software Must-Haves for Sales Pros
- Solar Masters: How to Supercharge Your Sales Teams With AI and Automation
- The 5 Solar Buyers: A Guide to Persona-Based Solar Sales
Final thoughts on expanding your roofing business with solar
Combining roofing and solar is a win-win for your business. It increases revenue, enhances your brand’s reputation, and provides green energy solutions to both new and existing customers. By offering PV systems, you set yourself apart from competitors and cater to growing demand for renewable energy.
While integrating solar services may seem daunting, the right tools can make the transition smooth and manageable. Aurora Solar offers a suite of features designed to simplify the process, including:
- Design Tools: Create accurate and visually compelling PV designs quickly and easily – while in the field with customers.
- Sales Mode: Streamline your sales process with customizable proposals and financial analysis.
- Expert Support: Access training and support to ensure your team is equipped to sell and install solar systems effectively.
By leveraging these tools, you can confidently expand your services and tap into the booming renewable energy market. To see how Aurora Solar can help, request a free demo of our powerful design and sales software today.
