[RE-wrenches] Combating requests for itemized PV pricing

[Erika Weliczko]

I find the rough percent breakdown as you suggest is useful in getting them to understand that they don't need those numbers or an itemized BOM before they agree to do a project. There are many customers that think if total cost is X and modules are Y that the cost to install is REALLY expensive at X-Y. 
If we were selling itemized lists, I'd be running buysolarcraponline.com, so I refrain from providing lists. My contract is for a total sum. 
If the prospect does not want a turnkey solution, then they are not a good fit for those of us that provide these products and services. And that is OK. 
Some days are easier going down this road than others. 

Erika Weliczko
REpower Solutions
cell: 216.402.4458

On Aug 18, 2012, at 12:18 PM, Jason Szumlanski <jason at fafcosolar.com> wrote:

> We are getting more and more people calling that want to provide their own equipment and have us install it. It's frustrating, because usually they are looking at prices for materials that either I would not consider selling, or would not meet the mounting requirements of the Florida Building Code. Of course, they do not understand and consider all of the other costs.
> 
> In addition, lots of people are looking for a breakdown of prices (down to the line item - nuts and bolts). I generally refuse to provide it because it inevitably leads to the response "I can get that module/inverter online cheaper." The "I need to make money" response leads to "yeah, but you must be getting better prices than I see online" argument. And so on, and so on... I'm sure you've heard it...
> 
> I've resorted recently to just providing a percentage breakdown, stating that the price is roughly 25% each:
> PV Modules
> Inverters and Electrical
> Mounting System
> Design/Engineering, Permitting, Labor, Overhead, and Profit
> Any other tips out there to answer the request for line item details?
> 
> Jason Szumlanski
> Fafco Solar
> 
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