Home solar panels can seem technical and complicated if you’re just starting out.
The actual solar panel installation, though, should be relatively simple for you. A reliable solar company will walk you through the process, from system design to activation.
Here are the steps you and your solar installer will take on your journey to clean, renewable energy from home solar panels.
See how much you can save by going solar with Palmetto
Assess Your Property’s Solar Feasibility
Before contacting potential installers, consider learning the basics of how solar panel systems work to determine whether or not your home is suitable for an installation. The ideal home for solar panels in the US has a south-facing roof (toward the equator) with ample unobstructed installation space and full sunlight most of the day. Partially-shaded properties and east- or west-facing roofs can also be suitable for solar panels.
While roofs with conventional pitches are great for direct sunlight absorption in the US, solar panels can also be installed on flat roofs (or ground-mounted) and tilted to the ideal angle for electricity generation.
Get to Know Your Home’s Energy Use
Solar panels provide a cheaper and greener way to power your property, and the long-term value they deliver will be proven with lower electricity bills. To determine what size solar panel system is best for your home, you can quantify your property’s electricity consumption by looking at your energy bills or interval data (if you have a smart meter) from your utility.
If you’re working with Palmetto, we will ask for your recent energy bills to get the best idea possible for your energy usage moving forward. From there, we design your system and estimate your savings with a new home solar system.
It’s important to think about how your energy habits may change when considering solar panels. For instance, if you are planning a home addition, replacing your gas range, electrifying your home, or purchasing an EV, your electricity use may increase.
Find the Best Solar Installer for You
Across the United States, many companies and contractors help develop solar energy solutions for homeowners and, like any home improvement project, it’s good to consider multiple options. Ask prospective installers questions to find your best choice. While you may be tempted by the cheapest possible offer, it is very important to consider installer longevity and dependability before making your decision. As solar panels last for over 25 years, the best customer experiences are delivered by companies with the credibility to guarantee multi-decade products and services.
Weigh Your Solar Panel Purchasing Options
The final stage of your solar buying process revolves around making important purchasing decisions. While cash payments can deliver the greatest return on investment, some homeowners choose to finance or lease solar panels in order to mitigate the upfront cost. To maximize your solar savings, you should consider multiple financing or buying options to optimize your cash flow and discover ways to reduce your total investment costs with tax incentives and rebates.
Learn everything you need to know about the solar tax credit.
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Final Plan Design
Once you’ve committed to your solar panel installation, then the real fun begins. From contract signature to fully functioning panels on your roof, most US residential solar installations are completed and operable within two to five months, but delays can happen. Your solar panel timeline may be impacted by your installer’s construction queue and the efficiency of local permit processes as well as any unforeseen project delays.
Although your solar contract will contain the primary details of your energy system, the precise details of your project plans must be finalized before the installation process can officially begin. Almost always, this involves an engineer visiting your property to take exact measurements and perform a full-site assessment.
Permitting and Approval
For grid-tied solar panels to legally operate in the US, the project must be approved by the electric utility serving the property as well as the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), prior to installation. Permitting processes vary from state to state (and municipality to municipality), and most locales require a licensed engineer or electrician to sign off on the plans before they can be approved.
System Installation
Once you’ve got the go-ahead from your local AHJ and utility, it’s time for installation day. Although large or complex roofs can lengthen project timelines, most home solar panel installations are completed within a day or two.
Inspection and Interconnection
After your solar components are installed, the system must receive permission to operate (PTO) from the local AHJ and electric utility. During this step, representatives from utilities will visit your home and inspect the solar energy system to ensure everything has been installed according to the plan and up to code. After approval from both entities, your solar panels can officially be “switched on” and interconnected to the utility grid.
If you’re interested in seeing what solar panels can do for you, discover what it's like to install solar panels with Palmetto or get a fast and free quote for your home.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is solar energy renewable?
Solar is a renewable energy resource because it is generated using an endless source of photons, which are light particles from the sun.
Is going to solar power for my home risky?
Not at all. During the initial survey and design process, we’ll work with you to outline overall costs as well as financing options and incentives you may be eligible for. Since solar panels require little to no maintenance and are designed to reduce your monthly electricity costs, we can forecast your savings before you commit. Plus, with best-in-class technologies and ongoing customer support, you can count on long-term savings with your solar energy system.
Can I install solar panels myself?
In limited cases, you may be able to install solar panels yourself. If your panels are going to connect to the grid, this is generally not legally allowed in most states. Residential solar systems typically require technical electrical work that is safest and best left to professionals.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Palmetto does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors.
Andrew GiermakWriter and EditorAndrew joined Palmetto in Charlotte in August 2024. He’s been a writer in journalism, then in business, going back to almost the 20th century. He’s lived in Indiana, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Virginia again, and now North Carolina for the last 12 years. He likes golf. Is he good at it? Not so much.
