Did you know that solar jobs have increased 167% over the past decade? This is five times faster than the overall job growth rate in the United States.
The demand for solar leads to more opportunities for providers and installers. Because solar is so popular, the installation process can take time, even with an increased amount of workers in the field.
What is the process of installing solar panels? Keep reading to find out.
Engineering Site Visit
The first step of installing solar panels is the engineering site visit. After signing a solar contract, the engineer will evaluate the electrical status of your home to ensure everything is compatible with your new system.
During the visit, the engineer will evaluate:
- Roof conditions
- Electrical panel
- System size
An engineer will sign off on an evaluation before the solar installation can begin.
Permits and Documents
Installing solar panels involves paperwork, but the installer usually handles this for you. The main thing you’ll be applying for is state and federal solar incentives.
You’ll also need to fill out paperwork for building permits that are specific to where you live. For example, if you live in Tacoma, a solar installer will know the requirements in the area.
Need more information? Get it at this link.
In a lot of cases, a solar installer will complete this paperwork for you. Check in on the progress of your documents to understand how long submission will take.
Ordering Equipment
After submitting the right paperwork, you are one step closer to reaping the benefits of solar panels. Now, the solar installer can place an equipment order.
The equipment for your system is stated in the solar contract. Solar panels and inverters are the main components you’ll want to evaluate for your system.
The equipment will likely arrive on the day of your installation. However, the time it takes to install solar panels will depend on how many projects the installer has in their queue.
Solar Installation
Although some homeowners choose to learn how to install solar panels, it’s best to leave the work to the professionals. This is the only way to get incentives for using solar energy.
The process of installation can take anywhere from one to three days. The timeline depends on the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your system.
Approval and Interconnection
Most people think that after installation day, the steps of solar panel installation are complete. But, the final step of the process is turning the system on to generate power.
Before you can connect your solar panels to the grid, your government must inspect the system. With this stamp of approval, a utility company representative will complete their own evaluation before connecting your system.
It can take anywhere between two weeks to a month for city and utility approval.
Installing Solar Panels: The Process Explained
Once you decide you are reading to go solar, this is the process you can expect. Installing solar panels takes time, but once your system is up and running, you can enjoy solar power.
Consider this guide during residential solar installation. Don’t forget to come back for more informative articles like this!