Solar Timeline: How Long Does it Take?

October 08, 2020

We’re committed to making the switch to solar as easy as possible. From your initial discussion with our Energy Consultant to the day we power up your new solar system, we’ve got you covered. We’ll explain the basics from start to finish.

Solar Project Timeline

Overall project timelines of a solar installation will vary depending on local permitting requirements and processes but can take up to three months. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect your experience to look like.

Consultation & Proposal

Safety is one of our priorities, and scheduling your free consultation has never been easier. With an option for either an in-person or virtual meeting, our professional energy consultants are here for you. We take pride in educating – not selling. Our team will assess your home’s unique profile and teach you about the best utility rate plans available to you. We’ll help you understand how to increase your home’s comfort and save money at the same time. Our Energy Consultant will learn about the things that matter most to you concerning home energy. They’ll review your current utility usage, fees, and tailor a specific proposal that meets you and your family’s needs. How long does all this take? Approximately: 1 day

Design & Documents

We survey your home and property to ensure our engineers design a system that will address your needs and maximize your savings. Quality and durability are core to our design process. Your system will have the best the industry has to offer. With that design, we fill out the appropriate contracting, financing, HOA, and utility documents for you to sign. We refer to this package as the “Final Docs Package”. Approximately: 1-2 weeks

Approvals & Installation

Permits

We’re experts when it comes to navigating city permits and building applications. We’ve got it all covered! But remember, our timelines are subject to the local municipal and utility approval processes and timelines. Some jurisdictions provide quick turnarounds, while others require multiple checkpoints, applications, and visits. Please know that we will do our best to keep you informed along the way. Approximately: 1-3 weeks

Installation

We’ve mastered the art of installation, so most systems only take one day to install. You’ll have access to the power of the sun in no time. Approximately: 1-5 days

City/County & Utility Inspections

Once your system is on your roof, two important things need to happen before you’re ready to start producing clean energy: City/County Inspections and Utility Inspections. Connecting to the grid in some areas requires a joint inspection, while others require approval from the city first. If this is the case, you will have to wait for city approval before scheduling your utility interconnection inspection. It is common for city and utility inspection departments to have a backlog. City departments often only have one solar inspector. Depending on their schedule and time of year, you may have to be patient. We will make sure your system is approved and installed correctly to provide you with decades of clean energy. It’s worth the wait! After an inspection from your city and local utility company, it’s time to “flip the switch.” Approximately: 3-6 weeks