How Much Time Is Required for Solar Installation?

Solar panel technology has come a long way from its beginnings. Product efficiency and affordability has improved throughout the years, and so has the installation time. From the moment you purchase your solar electric system, how long does the process actually take? The answer is, it depends on the job. However, there are a few benchmark requirements that can help you get a sense of how much time you should expect for the installation effort.

A 5-kilowatt solar panel system, takes roughly 1 day to install, depending on the roof type.  If the service panel needs to be upgraded, the system will take a bit longer to install.  A groundmounted solar system will take longer to install, because of digging, trenching, cementing, rough inspection etc. Of course, the larger the solar system, the more time it will take to install.  The specifics will depend on the design and size of your system, as well as other lead-up work necessary before a qualified team can come out to your home to install. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Evaluation – Every roof must be inspected to make sure that solar panel installation is appropriate for the structure. Solar panel placement and installation challenges will be evaluated at that time.
• Obtain Permits – Before work can begin, our team will need to obtain the necessary electrical permits. The city/county provides permits, along with building codes and installation requirements. Depending on the city or county, this can take several weeks to approve after plans are submitted to the jurisdiction by the solar company.
• HOA Approval– Although an HOA can not deny the installation of solar (due to the Solar Rights Act), you will still need to get approval from your HOA before the solar installation begins. Check with your HOA to see what information they will need for approval.
• Financing- If the solar system is financed, you must apply and secure financing before the solar system is installed. Your sales representative can help you apply for financing if you decide that you want to go solar.
• Procurement – After design and permitting, solar parts and materials will be ordered. More complex systems may take a few weeks to source.
• Schedule – Installation teams work on slotted schedules. If it’s a busy time of year, you may need to wait before the team can start installing your solar system.
• Installation – Depending on system size and complexity, the installation can take more than the estimated 1-3 days for a standard system.
• Service Panel Upgrade– Due to backfeed rules or condition of the service panel, some houses need to have a service panel upgrade before or during the solar system installation. If a service panel upgrade needs to be done, the solar company will submit paperwork to the Utility Company in order to get a date when they can come turn off the power to your home, for a service panel upgrade to be completed by an electrician.
• Commissioning – After the installation is complete and the permit is signed off, the utility company will grant Permission to Turn on the system, after the signed net metering documents are sent to the utility on your behalf by the solar company. This process usually takes 1 to 2 weeks.  

Solar installations take time.  It really just depends on the above variables.  Our team at New Day Solar is here to make your solar installation as simple and efficient as possible.   If you would like information about solar or a no-obligation quote, give us a call at: (855) 444-6329 or visit us on line at: www.newdaysolar.com.  We have been installing solar electric systems for 31 years and will always give you honest answers to your solar questions.