Millions of people in the United States are installing solar panels, and for good reason. It’s a renewable energy source that can save people thousands of dollars every year on their electricity and can give them true energy independence. The solar installation process can also be intimidating for people who aren’t familiar with solar power. The entire process can take up to 60 days. But the actual installation of the solar panels is relatively quick. If you’re new to solar panels, you may want to do some research on how they work before you proceed with the installation.

Here is a straightforward guide on the timeline for a solar panel installation.

Step 1: Consultation and Quotation (60-90 Minutes)

A site visit is a necessary first step, because the installer has to make a thorough analysis of the roof structure and determine the cost of the solar panel installation. During this visit, you will be informed of any flaws in the roof structure that could inhibit a successful installation process.

The installer will also tell you about the various solar panel and inverter options, warranty coverages, as well as any battery systems that are available for installation. After the needs assessment, the solar installer will be able to give you a cost estimate. And if you’re happy with the quote, the solar system installation process can get started.

Step 2: Engineering Site Visit (1 Day)

Once the quote has been signed off, an engineer will do a more thorough assessment of the compatibility between your electrical system and the solar power system that’s about to be installed. The engineer will also make sure the roof is structurally sound and is able to support the solar mounts. The electrical panel will also need to be analyzed to make sure it’s compatible with the system and doesn’t need to be upgraded.

Step 3: Permitting and Documentation (2-3 Weeks)

Like any other building project, a solar panel installation requires certain paperwork to be completed. If you’re using a solar company, this process will happen behind the scenes. But it’s still a good idea to understand the process and any possible issues A residential solar power system will still be connected to the utility grid, so solar installation companies will need to get permission from state authorities before they can connect a home system to the grid. Because government agencies can sometimes get backlogged, this is usually the most time-consuming part of the installation process. But permits are usually issued within three weeks of application.

Step 4: Order and Delivery of Materials (5-10 Days)

During the consultation and quotation phase, you and the solar installer will come up with the best solution for meeting your specific needs. Once they’re ordered from the supplier, it should take 5-10 business days for them to arrive. There can, of course, be delays caused by backorders (which can cause materials to be delivered in as much as two weeks after they’re ordered).

Step 5: Solar Panel Installation (1-3 Days)

The actual process of installing solar panels is brief. Compared to other home renovation projects, the disruption will be minimal. The contractor will make sure the roof tiles or sheets are structurally sound before the mounting system is attached. The wiring will then be laid, which will allow the solar power system to connect to the main electrical system. Once that process has been completed, the solar racks are securely attached to the roof before the solar panels are secured to the mounts.

After everything else is installed, the microinverter is connected to the panels, absorbs energy from the sun, and converts it into Direct Current (DC) power. Microinverters convert it into Alternating Current (AC) power, which is what’s used to power homes.

Step 6: Connecting to the Grid (2-4 Weeks)

Connecting to the grid requires approval from the local government. The solar panel installation company will manage this process. A government official will come to inspect the work done by the solar installation company, while a representative from the utility company will come to make sure the system meets their standards. Once all the appropriate authorities have approved the solar panel installation, your system will be connected to the grid.

In general, the solar panel installation process is pretty straightforward. If it’s managed by an experienced solar provider, it will be simple, quick, and efficient. If you’re looking for one of the best places for installing solar power systems in Corpus Christi, be sure to reach out to Solar Power Integrator.