Solar Quote Check: Former Vader resident starts new solar consultant business

By The Chronicle staff

Solar power continues to grow as it has since 2000, with smaller scale solar capacity increasing by 20% and utility scale solar comprising 8% of total electrical capacity in the U.S. in 2023 alone, according to Climate Central.

A rise in consumer protection complaints has coincided with this rise in usage, as some solar power companies have been accused of using aggressive sales tactics and inaccurate information.

That’s why Dever Haffner-Ratliffe, of Longview, decided to create Solar Quote Check LLC, a new business that helps those interested in purchasing solar power navigate the industry, according to an email from Haffner-Ratliffe.

“I was born in Vader and spent much of my childhood in Lewis County … It breaks my heart when I hear about seniors spending their retirement on an overpriced solar array because of inaccurate information and aggressive sales tactics,” Haffner-Ratliffe said in the email. “Solar can be a fantastic investment and a way to support renewable energy, but consumers need someone other than a commissioned salesperson to help answer their questions.”

Haffner-Ratliffe began her solar career running her late father Kirk Haffner’s Olympia-based South Sound Solar.

She now has 15 years of experience in the industry and has worked for multiple state agencies and electric utilities. Additionally, Haffner-Ratliffe co-founded the Washington Solar Energy Industry Association.

With Solar Quote Check, those interested in purchasing solar panels for either businesses or private properties now have access to someone who has no financial interest in whether they actually purchase solar power or not.

The business will bill customers for consultations based on either time or a pre-negotiated flat fee, but offers the first 30-minute consultation for free along with a free online solar calculator.

“The consequences of a bad solar contract can be devastating, especially to those in tight financial situations. We’ve seen people stuck in contracts for $100,000, but the solar panels don’t even produce energy,” Haffner-Ratliffe said.

While based out of Longview, Haffner-Ratliffe offers consultations not only throughout Washington state but nationwide as well.

For more information, visit or call or text Haffner-Ratliffe at 253-780-1880.