AEC Solar Reviews

Founded in 1991, AEC Solar expanded its solar division in 2013. It is based in New York. AEC Solar offers tailored solar panel installations designed to optimize energy efficiency and reduce electricity costs for those in the Albany area.

It uses high-efficiency Maxeon Solar Technologies solar panels with 25-year warranties, as well as other panels. AEC Solar also offers flexible financing options for both commercial and residential properties.

AEC Solar incorporates advanced Maxeon Solar Technologies technology into its solar installations, known for delivering exceptional efficiency and durability. Maxeon Solar Technologies’ panels use a monocrystalline, half-cut cell structure that minimizes heat loss by reducing cell size, making them more efficient than conventional panels.

These solar panels also feature interdigitated back contact (IBC) technology and shingled solar cell construction, both of which contribute to higher energy production and enhanced longevity.

IBC technology places electrical contacts on the back of each cell rather than the front, maximizing light absorption by eliminating grid-like metal lines. This design allows the entire cell surface to capture sunlight, while a copper-backed layer on the panel’s rear prevents corrosion and resists common causes of failure.

Shingled solar cell technology is designed to further boost panel efficiency and resilience. In this design, traditional cells are cut into strips and arranged like shingles on a roof. Instead of using traditional metal ribbons for connectivity, shingled cells use an electrically conductive adhesive (ECA) to enhance flexibility and durability.

Here’s how the installation process works with AEC Solar:

1. Consultation: The process begins with an in-depth consultation, where AEC Solar’s team assesses the property’s energy consumption, roof structure and sunlight exposure to design a customized solar system. After a site evaluation, AEC Solar’s engineers create a system layout optimized for the specific location, maximizing energy production while ensuring compliance with local regulations and building codes.
2. Permits and paperwork: Once the design is finalized, AEC Solar reports it handles all necessary permits and paperwork.
3. Installation: The installation itself is performed by experienced technicians who mount the solar panels and secure all electrical connections.

   High-quality materials, such as sturdy racking systems (the structural frameworks used to securely mount solar panels in place), are used to ensure stability and long-term durability. The team pays attention to aesthetic integration, aligning the panels for both visual appeal and optimal energy output.

4. Inspection and testing: After installation, AEC Solar conducts a thorough inspection and testing phase to confirm system functionality and efficiency. The company provides clients with a detailed walk-through, explaining how to monitor energy production and performance via a mobile app or web portal. AEC Solar also says it offers ongoing support, with maintenance options and warranties to cover the life span of the system.

AEC Solar’s 25-year warranty includes the replacement of defective parts and addressing any operational issues related to the solar system, such as panel malfunctions, electrical failures or system underperformance. The warranty for monitoring the technology is 10 years.

AEC offers an intake form on its website or you can call directly to the phone number provided on its website.

AEC Solar offers flexible financing options. For clients who prefer to purchase their solar system outright, AEC Solar provides a direct-buy option where homeowners fully own the system and any energy it produces.

This approach allows clients to keep any solar tax credits or state and local incentives, which can significantly reduce the overall cost. Homeowners may also use a home equity loan to finance the system.

For those who prefer loan-based financing, AEC Solar offers various loan options with flexible terms and no prepayment penalties.

For clients who prefer not to own the system, AEC Solar offers a lease option. Customers pay a fixed monthly amount to use the energy generated, and most customers pay less than their traditional utility bill. Additionally, if homeowners decide to sell their property, they can transfer the lease to the new owners, subject to credit approval.

AEC Solar notes a comprehensive warranty for most parts of the system for 25 years. The table below breaks it down:

AEC Solar’s systems come with a comprehensive 25-year warranty. Maxeon Solar Technologies, an independent company, has some of the highest-efficiency panels on the current market. This warranty covers all aspects of the system, including the removal and replacement of defective parts, shipping, installation of new components and labor costs.