How Solar Companies Get Leads: What "Free Quote" Really Means
That "free solar quote" is a lead. Here is how solar lead generation works, what happens to your data, and how to get quotes without the phone calls.
By The PVFig Editorial Team · 2026-08-10 · reviewed against EIA, NREL and DSIRE sources
The lead-gen model
Many "free quote" buttons on solar sites are lead-generation forms. Your contact info is sold to installers who compete for your business — expect calls from multiple companies within days. Solar leads are valuable ($20–$40+), which is why they are resold.
The good and bad of it
The upside: you get multiple quotes without work. The downside: aggressive call volume, and some comparison sites share your data widely. EnergySage is the cleaner alternative — it anonymizes your info until you choose to share it.
How to protect yourself
Use a dedicated email/phone for quote requests, ask how your data is used before submitting, and use platforms with privacy controls. Or go direct to 3–5 installers you researched — the PVFig approach: get quotes, not lead resale.
FAQ
Why do I get so many calls after a solar quote?
Most "free quote" forms are lead-gen: your info is sold to multiple installers. Use platforms with privacy controls or contact installers directly.
Is EnergySage legit?
Yes — it is a well-regarded solar marketplace that anonymizes your info until you choose to share it, reducing call spam.
How much is a solar lead worth?
Solar leads typically sell for $20–$40+, which is why comparison sites push them aggressively. Your data is the product.
Ready to compare real installer quotes?
The estimates above are based on public data — your actual price depends on your roof, installer, and market. EnergySage collects quotes from pre-screened installers in one place (free, no obligation).
Compare quotes on EnergySage →
We may earn a commission if you sign up through links above — it never affects our data or estimates.
Sources
- U.S. EIA — electricity rates by state, eia.gov/electricity/monthly
- NREL PVWatts v8 — solar production by location, pvwatts.nrel.gov
- DSIRE — state incentives and net metering, dsireusa.org
- See how every figure on this page is calculated — PVFig methodology.
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