If you’ve decided to join the 1 million American homeowners that invested in residential solar panels, you definitely have plenty to look forward to. Going solar will mean dramatically lower energy bills for the next 25+ years. You’ll also get the satisfaction of doing your part to help the environment.
Of course, signing the contract with your solar provider is really only the beginning. While the solar panel installation itself only takes a few days, the process of getting your system up and running will require multiple steps.
If everything goes smoothly, the entire process can take as little as 2 months. However, if there is a hold up at any point, it could extend another few weeks. This article will provide a rough timeline of how long the solar installation process will take at each stage.
Solar Panel Installation Site Assessment (1 – 2 Weeks)
This visit to your home is the crucial initial step that generally happens within a week or two of signing the contract. The installer will send a team to evaluate your home’s energy needs, as well as relevant factors like the condition of your electrical panel or any shade concerns. If the solar system is going on the roof, you will also get a roof inspection (Note: Solar Optimum is offering roofing services in Southern California starting October 1, 2020).
All this information will be used to design the ideal setup for your unique situation and then all the necessary materials will get ordered.
Getting The Permits (2 – 8 Weeks)
Before construction on your system can begin, you’ll need to get permission from your city or town. The good news is that your installer fills out the forms and all you have to do is try to wait patiently. Depending on where you live, this process can last a couple of weeks or stretch out well over a month. Once it’s been determined that the project is safe and follows all local building codes, you’ll be ready to go.
Solar Panel Installation (2 – 3 Days)
This much-anticipated step of the journey to go solar will happen satisfyingly quickly. Even larger systems will not take more than 2 – 3 days to be completed. The solar installers will set up the electrical wiring, install a racking system, and then mount the solar panels themselves.
The final step will be connecting the inverters, which are responsible for converting the solar energy into a form that’s usable in your home. But will the installers flip the switch right then and there? No so fast. There’s one final bureaucratic hurdle to overcome before you can get to enjoy your solar power.
The Final Inspection (1 – 2 Weeks)
Your new solar system cannot be connected to the grid until it has been reviewed by a local government inspector, and possibly also your public electric company. This final approval will mean that the system complies with applicable codes and follows the specifications of your permit.
Again, this is a step that requires patience since it depends on the efficiency of your local government officials. Getting this final thumbs up can take between one week and one month depending on where you live.
Taking The Next Step Toward Energy Independence
Solar panel installation is a multiphased process that can take between 2 – 3 months to complete. But once your system is up and running, it will produce clean energy for you and your family for decades to come.
California homeowners can count on Solar Optimum for expert guidance on the very best solar system for you. Our transferable 25-year warranty includes the panels, inverter, racking and overall performance of your system. Contact us today for more information.
