How Long Does it Take to Install Solar Panels and Go Solar
If you’re thinking of going solar, you’re probably wondering how long the process will take. will it be a quick switchover or a drawn-out ordeal? The answer actually depends on your individual situation. In this post, we’ll outline the typical timeline for solar installation, from start to finish. So keep reading to find out more about what it takes to go solar!
Breakdown of The Solar Installation Process
Please note that these time frames vary from house to house. We ensure that all of our processes are timely. We are at the mercy of the HOA (if applicable) and the city permitting and inspection departments. The entire process can take 60 days without an HOA and likely 90 if there is one involved.
The process for installing solar panels from A to Z is not an overnight process. Going solar in Texas can take up to 60 days from the time you sign a contract with the solar installation company to getting your solar panels approved and turned on.
This may feel like a long time to some, but most of the delay is actually due to the permit process with the city and HOA and waiting for the utility company to process your solar billing application.
We completely understand how important it is for the homeowner to understand each and every part of the solar installation process. Making sure you understand your project’s happening is our number one priority.
Here is a breakdown of what you can expect after committing to going solar with Solar Sounds Great.
1. Initial Onboarding
During a solar energy onboarding call, a representative will walk you through the process of installing solar panels and help you choose the best system for your home. They will also answer any questions you have about solar energy and how it works. By the end of the call, you should have a better understanding of solar energy and whether it’s right for you.
2. Site Assessment
A solar energy home site assessment is an evaluation of a home’s potential to generate electricity from the sun. The assessment considers the home’s location, orientation, and roof type to determine the feasibility of a solar installation. The results of the assessment can help homeowners decide if solar is right for their home.
A solar energy home site assessment typically begins with a review of the home’s location and orientation. The latitude and longitude of the home are used to calculate the average amount of sunlight that hits the site throughout the year. The angle of the sun’s rays also affects the amount of sunlight that is available for a solar installation. A home that faces south will generally receive more sunlight than a home that faces north. The pitch or angle of the roof also affects how much sunlight is available for a solar installation. A steeper roof will catch more sunlight than a flat roof.
After reviewing the home’s location and orientation, the assessor will examine the type of roofing material. Some types of roofs, such as metal roofs, reflect more sunlight than others, making them less ideal for solar installations. The size and shape of the roof are also important factors to consider. A larger roof will have more area available for solar panels, but it is also more expensive to install. The assessor will also take into account any obstacles that could block sunlight from reaching the panels, such as trees or other buildings and whether the roof can handle the weight of the solar panels.
3. Solar Panels System Design & Engineering
Our team of solar engineers will use the site assessment data to verify the solar panels designs and adjust the plans according to the local code requirements. The solar building plan will then be verified and approved by a design engineer before submitting it to the city for permits. Being part of a national network, Powur, we have access to a team that specializes in residential solar with over 5,000 successful installs. This also means that our team knows the ins and outs of the permit process allowing us to minimize the time that the city requires to review and approve the plans.
Every city has its own specific rules when it comes to residential solar panels installation. Our team of engineers focusses first on meeting the city guidelines while keeping the homeowners return on investment a high priority.
Step 4. Solar Permit Application
Just like any construction project, installing solar panels on your home requires getting the proper permits from the city.
The city permit for your solar energy system takes the longest time of the solar installation process. It typically takes 2-4 weeks, and in some cases it could even take up to 4 months. The solar installation permits required to install solar for your home will vary based on your city’s Building and Safety department. In most cases, you will need to obtain a Solar PV Permit and an Electrical Permit.
Step 5. Solar Panels Installation
Once you have your permits, your project manager will schedule a time with you for the actual solar panels to be installed. To most people’s surprise, this is the quickest part of the solar installation process and it involves:
- Preparing the roof or ground space: The designated area for solar panel installation must be properly prepared by removing any obstructions or debris and ensuring that it is safe for workers to access.
- Mounting the racking system: The next step involves mounting a suitable racking system to secure and hold the solar panels in place on the roof or ground space.
- Wiring & connecting components: Cables and wiring are connected to ensure that electricity flows from the solar panels into your home’s electrical systems safely.
- Connecting inverters: An inverter is needed to convert direct current (DC) generated from the solar panel into alternating current (AC), which can be used for your home’s energy needs.
- System testing & commissioning: Be fore you can go solar, the installed solar panels system must be tested and commissioned to ensure that it works correctly and is safe for use before turning it on for regular operation.
Ready to install solar panels on your home and go solar? Click for a FREE no-obligation solar consultation and start taking control of your electric bill.
