Solar Sales Salary: How Much Can You Make?

There are countless ways to make a living. However, there are just as many ways to make money. There is a career that people have been getting paid handsomely for years. It's called solar salespeople.

Undoubtedly, they have an entirely new job that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. In this blog, we will talk about solar sales salary and career steps to follow to get into solar sales.

We will also discuss the pros and cons of the job so that you can make an informed decision before jumping in feet first into any job.

What are Solar Sales?

Solar sales are selling or leasing solar energy systems to customers. It involves understanding customer requirements, analyzing the market, and completing sales transactions.

An experienced solar sales professional can earn a high salary with a commission or flat fee model. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and company size. The average entry-level salary for a solar sales professional is $40,000 per year.

Those with 5+ years of experience can earn up to $65,000 annually. The job has the potential for growth as the solar energy industry continues to grow. So job seekers should research available opportunities before applying.

Types of Solar Sales Jobs

Solar sales professionals work in various industries, including construction, real estate, home improvement, insurance, finance, and more. Solar sales professionals help companies sell solar power systems to generate electricity in these industries.

The average salary for solar sales professionals is around $50,000 per year. The job requires a high degree of knowledge and skill and can be lucrative. There are a variety of certifications and licenses that solar sales professionals may need to possess.

These include solar salesperson certification from the Solar Energy Industries Association or the Institute for Solar Energies or Solar Sales Associate certification from the National Solar Sales Association or the National Association of Realtors.

How much do Solar Sales Make?

Solar sales salaries vary widely depending on the company, role, and location. According to PayScale, solar sales representatives earn an average salary of $47,682 annually in the United States.

However, salaries can range from $33,000 to $69,000 per year. Sales managers can earn up to $94,000 per year.

General qualifications for a good Solar Candidate

If you are looking to join the renewable energy industry, having a solid foundation of experience and qualifications is important. Start with the minimum two years of experience required for entry-level positions, and focus on gaining relevant skills and expertise.

For example, a degree in engineering or a related field is an asset, as is familiarity with solar installation and system design. Also, consider the experience in quoting and contracting work and knowledge of solar codes and regulations in your region.

This will help you develop a strong understanding of the industry and help you stand out from the competition.

Sales experience

A sales candidate is considered a good solar candidate with sales experience. A good solar candidate should have experience selling products or services. Experience working with customers in a customer-facing role is essential.

The ideal sales experience includes working with customers on a project or in an ongoing business relationship. To successfully sell solar energy, a candidate must master complex technical and business concepts quickly and comfortably.

Solar energy Knowledge

A good solar candidate should have a strong interest in solar energy and be knowledgeable about the subject. An ideal candidate would have experience installing or repairing solar panels.

A good candidate would also have a degree in engineering, science, or another relevant field. Such a person is likely to know the steps involved in installing solar panels, troubleshooting issues with their system, and maintaining it over time.

This knowledge can help ensure successful installation and reduce the risk of potential damage or failure.

Communication and interpersonal skills

A good solar candidate must be communicative and have excellent interpersonal skills. In addition, they must work well in a team environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Communication and interpersonal skills are key for any job, especially in the solar industry, which can be fast-paced and require continuous interaction with other personnel. A good candidate will possess all of these qualities, making them ideal for a job interview.

Technical ability

A good solar candidate should have good technical ability. Technical ability includes knowledge of solar technologies and tools and a strong understanding of the installation process.

In addition, they should be able to communicate clearly with customers and stakeholders and adapt quickly to new tasks and challenges. Overall, solar companies must find candidates with strong technical abilities to help them complete the job successfully.

Duties and responsibilities of Solar Sales

A solar sales professional is responsible for selling solar systems to customers and providing service after the installation. The person must have a good understanding of the solar industry and be an advocate for clean energy.

In addition, they must have excellent customer service skills and handle any questions or concerns without hesitation.

Lead generation and qualification

Solar sales professionals play a vital role in the solar industry's growth. Their job is to generate leads and qualify them for solar products and services. Sales professionals must be able to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

It takes skilled sales professionals to successfully lead sales teams, manage customer relationships, and promote their company's products and services.

Due to the complex nature of the solar industry, sales professionals must be proficient with several sales techniques, such as cold calling, networking, and social media marketing.

Presentation and demonstration

Solar sales professionals are responsible for presenting the benefits of solar energy to clients. They must communicate with clients effectively and demonstrate the benefits of solar energy, such as how it can contribute to a sustainable future.

In addition, solar sales professionals must be comfortable speaking in front of groups. They must be able to present their ideas in a persuasive, engaging, and professional manner. This requires proficiency in both verbal and written communication skills.

Closing sales

A solar salesperson's main duties and responsibilities include the following:

• Identifying and qualifying potential customers for solar installations.
• Offering unbiased advice on solar installations.
• Providing accurate information about the benefits of solar power.
• Negotiating discounts and deals with clients.
• Creating a proposal that accurately reflects the customer's needs.

Solar salespersons can be invaluable to their companies as they help identify and qualify potential customers for solar installations. In addition, their job is to provide unbiased advice on the best solar installation options for their customer's unique needs.

Customer service and support

Solar sales professionals are expected to be knowledgeable about the latest trends in the solar industry and possess technical expertise in solar products. In addition, they must be able to provide customer service and support during the buying process.

This can involve educating customers about solar energy options and assisting with financial and contract negotiations.

Compensation and benefits of Solar Sales

The average solar sales representative salary in the United States is $50,000 annually. However, salaries vary depending on experience and location. In solar-friendly states, such as California and NY, solar sales professionals can earn anywhere from $70,000 to $100,000 annually at an entry-level level.

Those with experience selling solar have an earning potential of $150,000 annually. Benefits of being a solar salesperson include commission-based pay, health insurance, and 401(k) contributions.

Salary and commission structure

The solar industry has grown rapidly in recent years due to the growing demand for environmentally friendly energy sources. The solar industry generated $25 billion in sales in 2017, up from $15 billion in 2009.

The average installed cost of a solar system is $27,000, so it makes sense why the solar sales market is growing so rapidly. Solar sales professionals earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on their experience and qualifications.

They can also earn commissions on the sales they make. In addition, many solar companies offer their employees generous benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance coverage.

Health insurance

Solar sales professionals can earn a decent base salary if they are qualified and have the right skills. In addition, most solar companies provide health insurance that covers basic medical costs. This can help reduce the risk of financial loss in the event of an injury or illness.

However, the health insurance provided by most solar companies is usually adequate for basic medical needs but may not cover more serious issues like surgery or medication costs. Therefore, carrying a separate health insurance policy to cover these expenses is a good idea.

Paid time off

Sales professionals working in the solar industry may be eligible for various benefits, including paid time off. In addition, some companies offer flexible hours to accommodate family obligations.

Other benefits sales professionals in the solar industry may receive include compensation that varies based on experience and qualifications. Average salaries for sales professionals working in the solar industry can range from $75,000 to $110,000, according to Payscale.com.

Additionally, some companies provide free housing for sales representatives.

Opportunities for growth and development

Solar sales professionals can expect to earn a competitive compensation and benefits package with other sales positions. Depending on the job, this may include base salary, bonuses, and commissions.

Additionally, sales professionals can work in various roles, including sales, marketing, and customer service. As a result, the growth and development opportunities in the solar industry are endless.

What are the steps to becoming a Solar Salesperson?

- Registered with the Solar Trade Association (STA) as a solar salesperson. This mandatory certification recognizes and acknowledges your expertise in the solar industry.

- Take part in solar training courses offered by the STA. These courses provide you with the knowledge, skill, and experience to succeed as a solar salesperson. This includes both online and offline training programs.

- Start selling and marketing your services to potential clients. This involves getting familiar with your target market and developing a marketing plan to generate potential leads and conversions.

- Set up and manage your own sales team. You must allocate budgets and resources to sales activities, including hiring salespeople, building sales teams, creating sales campaigns, and monitoring results.

- Negotiate and contract with clients. As a solar salesperson, you should understand the technical specifications of solar energy systems and how they can benefit customers.

How to make the most out of your Solar Sales career?

If you're considering a career in solar sales, finding the right job is essential. Different types of solar sales jobs exist, and each one offers unique challenges and opportunities.

You can start by familiarizing yourself with the different types of jobs in the solar industry and the various responsibilities, duties, and skills associated with each. As part of your solar sales job, developing a strong work ethic is important.

Start by learning the basics of sales and how to approach customers with confidence and enthusiasm. Next, use tools and resources available to help improve your skills, such as training courses or workshops offered by your employer or other organizations involved in solar sales.

Also, take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills or pursue new interests. Finally, consider how solar sales salaries can help you increase your earnings potential and aim high when pursuing a career in this field.

Pros & Cons of Solar Sales career

Pros

You have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment by helping people transition to renewable energy. Solar sales jobs can be very financially rewarding, with the potential for high commissions and bonuses.

In addition, you have the potential to work with a wide range of people and businesses, which can be a great way to build your network and gain contacts. 

Cons

The solar industry is still relatively new, so you may face some resistance from potential customers who are hesitant to make the switch. As a result, you may have to spend a significant amount of time and energy educating potential customers on the benefits of solar energy.

In addition, you may face competition from other solar salespeople in your area, so you must be prepared to work hard and stay ahead.

Bottom Line

Solar sales representatives can make a very good living, depending on their skills and experience. The average solar sales salary is generally based on experience and skill sets.

While it is important to specialize in a specific area of solar sales, staying educated and up-to-date on the latest trends, technologies, and market dynamics is vital. Those with excellent customer service skills could earn more than the average salary.

Many solar sales professionals find ways to make money as a profession by marketing and selling solar energy solutions.

It is crucial to network and builds relationships with other solar sales professionals to increase your chances of success. With these tips, anyone can make a living as a solar sales professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is it like to be a Solar Salesperson?

Being a Solar Salesperson can be a rewarding experience. As a sales representative, you work inside a commercial setting and typically earn an hourly wage. The average salary for a Solar Salesperson is $50,000 per year.

A Solar Salesperson typically works in a sales role and often sells solar systems or products and services related to solar systems. This means you have plenty of opportunities to learn new things and go above and beyond to make sales.

Plus, you'll likely have long-term customer relationships, which make your job even more fulfilling.

Where should I look for jobs within this field?

One of the best ways to find jobs in this field is by checking out job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and PayScale. Additionally, you should attend job and career fairs to meet potential employers in person.

Finally, consider seeking internships or apprenticeships within the solar industry.

Is it necessary to have an engineering degree for a Solar Sales job?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on the company you are applying to and your qualifications. However, most employers may prefer candidates with an engineering degree for Solar Sales representative jobs.

This is because they understand the complexities of solar technology and how to install and maintain solar panels. Furthermore, having an engineering degree can also give you an advantage in bidding wars for solar projects.

Is Solar Sales a good career?

Yes, the solar sales representative is a good career choice! The solar industry is growing rapidly, and the market for solar equipment is expected to grow by 20% each year through 2020.

As such, the median annual salary for a solar salesperson was $68,000 in 2018. If you have a college degree or equivalent experience, you have a good chance of finding success as a solar salesperson.

The best way to learn about the solar industry and find jobs is to sign up with an online job board like Indeed or indeed.com. These boards are full of solar sales positions worldwide, so you'll be sure to find the perfect job for you.