What is the installation process and timeline?
Like any home improvement project getting solar installed can take several months to be completed depending on many different factors. This page will look at the necessary steps for solar panel installations and the amount of time each should take. Remember that the timeline can vary widely from project to project and depend in part on what company you work with.
It usually takes an average solar company 3 to 5 months from signed agreement to system turned on and producing electricity whereas some of the best companies can get it done in 1 to 2 months. This will also depend heavily on each city’s permitting process and regulations as well as the utility company’s approval process.
Solar Process
The following is a high-level overview of each step of the process and what the solar panel system buyer’s responsibilities are.
Solar Consultation
A representative from the solar company will present a customized solar plan quote for you.
- You – Review and sign the agreement. This may involve a credit check and/or downpayment if using one of the financing options or by paying cash for the system.
Site Survey
Site surveyor will contact you to schedule a time to visit your home.
- You – Ensure that the site surveyor will have access to your service panel. You do not need to be present, as long as the surveyor can get access to your roof and the main electrical service panel.
The site survey will establish whether your main service panel needs an upgrade or the installation of a generation meter adapter (GSM). Installation of a GSMs can be more cost-effective. May be covered by solar company or utility provider.
- You – sign forms authorizing the service panel upgrade or GSM and ensure that the technician from the utility will have access to your service panel to install.
Design
An engineer will create a set of plans and engineering calculations for the company’s internal approval and for submission to the city following standard guidelines and industry regulations.
- You – n/a
Building Permits – City
The solar company will submit the plan sets to obtain the necessary building permits from the city. Some cities require authorization forms signed by the homeowner.
- You – sign authorization forms when/if they are sent to you
Installation
A team of installers will be on site to complete the installation. In some cases, installation can be done in 1 day. Reputable solar companies use licensed, bonded and insured workers.
- You – Ensure that the installers will have access to your service panel
Set up remote monitoring account so that the solar panels’ production can be monitored via the web or apps through the home wifi or cell unit.
- You – Sign in and create your account when you receive the email, and download the app or login in online.
Inspection – City
The city will send an inspector to ensure that installation was completed according to the plans and in compliance with building codes and city requirements
- You – Allow inspector access to your home to inspect smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms or sign appropriate waiver*
Submission of net metering application to your utility
- You – Sign NEM application when it is sent to you
Permission to Operate
Your utility will notify the solar company when your solar system has the official go-ahead to be turned on.
- You – Turn on your system and start generating clean renewable energy!
In order to see if and what you qualify for solar, see our solar recipe guide.