How can a small solar business establish ties with the manufacturers?

[SunPowerTechs]

Hello, we are a new solar panel business and would like to know why it is so difficult to purchase equipment directly from the manufacturers? Is there a specific way to establish ties with them in order to buy equipment as needed for projects that we quote? We appreciate any inputs or tips on this matter. Thank you!

[Mike90250]

Welcome.

I think most manufacturers want to only sell to a couple of distributors, and not have to deal with invoicing dozens of small operations.

Other installers here may have different views, please speak up.

Mike

[SunPowerTechs]

Thank you for your reply. Does anyone know if there is a shortage of solar panels?

[Peak Power Solutions]

Well, I do know that we used to order panels the week before a project starts and now we have to drag it out longer, Apparently sunpower cant keep up with demand of solar panels (for us anyhow). Sharp seems to be doing fine. I think it is suppost to be a temporary thing.

[Peak Power Solutions]

As far as establishing ties, you can take an online solar distributor course which establishes a great tie with Sunpower. If you pass all the classes and tests, you are awarded solar expert certificates and credentials that promote your company. Being a Company that has those credentials and a consistant order, along with meeting with some of the reps and establishing a good relationship, you'll be good in their book.

[russ]

Cash on the line usually goes a lot farther than some credentials that anyone can get.

[Peak Power Solutions]

You cant be just anyone, you have to meet a certian number of panel order per month. It doesnt really matter with Sunpower anyway, they cant keep up with our orders because of demand.

[hollywood7366]

chinese factory

Hello, we are a new solar panel business and would like to know why it is so difficult to purchase equipment directly from the manufacturers? Is there a specific way to establish ties with them in order to buy equipment as needed for projects that we quote? We appreciate any inputs or tips on this matter. Thank you!

I am currently in china sourcing directly from the factories here. If you send me the certifications you need for California, i will look into the panels, prices, and availability for you. thanks