Homeowner-first standard
We prioritize information that changes a homeowner decision: installed cost, expected production, electricity value, payback, financing terms, utility rules, incentives, equipment specifications and important policy changes.
Source hierarchy
For factual claims we prefer primary sources such as federal and state agencies, utilities, National Laboratory of the Rockies, U.S. Energy Information Administration, OpenEI, manufacturer datasheets and official program documents. Reputable industry reporting may be used for timely news context, with the underlying source linked whenever practical.
Calculators and estimates
Calculator outputs are not presented as guaranteed savings. Inputs and assumptions should be visible or documented. State averages are labeled as averages, fallback values are identified and more precise location-specific data is preferred when available.
Equipment coverage
Panel and battery pages use manufacturer-published specifications and separate product specifications from installed price, installer quality and system-level economics. We do not infer performance claims that are not supported by the source material.
News coverage
News articles summarize confirmed developments and add a separate homeowner-impact explanation. A headline alone does not automatically change our calculators or databases; policy and tariff changes are incorporated only after effective dates and eligibility rules are clear enough to model.
Automation and AI assistance
Automation may assist with data processing, monitoring, drafting and site maintenance. Factual claims intended for publication should be checked against the cited source, and automated output is not treated as a substitute for source verification.
Advertising and commercial influence
Advertising may support Home Solar Atlas. Advertisers do not control calculator assumptions, editorial conclusions, source selection or corrections. Advertising is kept separate from editorial and data methodology.
Corrections
When a material factual error is identified, we aim to correct the affected page promptly and update source or review dates when appropriate. See our Corrections Policy.