This page explains how Plain Solar Guide chooses topics, researches them, and keeps them accurate. Last updated: October 17, 2026.
What we cover
We write guides on residential solar in the United States: costs, financing, incentives, equipment, utility rules, installers and ownership. Our goal is to help homeowners make an informed decision, including deciding not to go solar.
How we research
- We start from primary or widely cited sources, such as government agencies, national laboratories, utility documents and large marketplace datasets.
- We link to the sources that support our key figures, so readers can check them.
- We write in our own words and do not copy text from other sites.
- When sources disagree, we say so and explain why the numbers may differ.
- When a number is our own estimate or an illustration, we label it as such.
Updates and corrections
- Pages show the date they were last reviewed. We review pages on prices, incentives and tax rules at least every three months.
- If you find an error, please tell us through the contact page. We correct confirmed errors promptly and note significant corrections on the page.
Independence
Advertising and affiliate relationships do not decide what we recommend or how we rank options. We explain how we earn money in our advertising and affiliate disclosure.
Calculators
Our calculators use default assumptions, which we state next to each tool. Results are estimates for planning, not quotes. Always compare written quotes from several licensed installers.
Not professional advice
Our content is educational. It is not tax, legal or financial advice. For decisions that depend on your own tax situation or contract terms, talk to a qualified professional.