Local solar supply counter for installers

Local solar installers, electricians and roofers, plus homeowners and small businesses buying for their own projects.

You buy in bulk from manufacturers or distributors and sell at a markup. Fast availability, delivery to job sites and trade accounts with repeat installers drive steady sales.

• Solar product knowledge and technical support
• Inventory and cash flow management
• Building relationships with installers and contractors

• Zoning and business license for a warehouse or retail site, check with your city or county
• General liability, product liability and property insurance for stock, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Cash tied up in inventory, as panels and batteries are costly and prices and models change; opening stock, lease deposit, a delivery vehicle and forklift or pallet equipment can push costs well beyond a basic fit-out
• Sales tax registration and resale certificates for trade customers, check your state's rules
• Safe storage and handling of batteries, check fire code and insurer requirements
• Supplier agreements may limit who you can sell to or require minimum volumes, so read them carefully

Startup costs are typically around $120,000 to $400,000, depending on opening stock, lease deposit, a delivery vehicle, and forklift or pallet equipment. These are estimates, and costs can go well beyond a basic fit-out.

Monthly revenue is typically around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on your stock range, installer relationships, and local demand. Cash is tied up in inventory, and prices and models change, so check margins and cash flow carefully.

Check zoning and business license rules for a warehouse or retail site, plus general liability, product liability, and property insurance. Also check sales tax registration and resale certificates, fire code for battery storage, and any supplier agreement limits.