The complete solar installation will require 60 to 90 days. It consists of applying for the system, paperwork, getting approval, finding good supplies, hiring a contractor, and installation. However, the timeline will vary depending on the project size, installation type, solar company, installer efficiency, and roof condition. You can easily finish the process within 90 days if everything goes well. Unfortunately, some people need a year to finish the process, from starting to ending, due to the inefficiency in research, paperwork, approval, order, and installation.
Solar Installation Timeline: Phase-by-Phase Breakdown
Own research
Do your research before making the decision. It may take a few days to a few months.
Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
You need to book an appointment for an initial consultation with a solar expert to discuss energy usage, annual electricity, and solar potential. You can discuss aesthetic preferences, roof orientation, and sun exposure in this stage.
- Time estimate: 1–2 weeks
Solar System Design and Engineering
The experts will create a solar system design with aesthetic design, project size, and energy demands. Battery storage, battery backup, or aesthetic design requirements are incorporated, and designs are finalized.
- Time estimate: 1–2 weeks
Permitting and Utility Approvals
Get permission from the relevant authorities. Submit solar building permits and an interconnection agreement. Complete all the paperwork. Potential delays happen for additional approvals, approval procedures, or local regulations.
- Time estimate: 2–6 weeks (delays may occur)
Equipment Procurement and Scheduling
Place an order for solar equipment, battery storage, mounting of panels, and electrical panels.
- Time estimate: 1–3 weeks
Solar Equipment Installation
The team will install panels, direct current wiring, and a connection to the electrical grid.
- Time estimate: 1–5 days
Inspection and Interconnection
The final inspection will be done before connecting to your home electricity line.
| Phase | Estimated Time |
| Initial Consultation | 1–2 weeks |
| Design Phase | 1–2 weeks |
| Permitting & Utility Approvals | 2–6 weeks |
| Equipment Procurement | 1–3 weeks |
| Installation | 1–5 days |
| Inspection & Interconnection | 1–2 weeks |
| Total Range | 4–12+ weeks |
Key Factors That Influence Solar Installation Time
Permitting and Approvals
The first bottleneck in the solar panel installation process is the solar permits. You need a building permit and an electrical permit to start the process. The permit application can take 2-6 weeks. It can go further if additional approval procedures are required, such as utility requirements or interconnection agreements with the local utility company. Mistakes in system design details or other processes can take more time. In general, the solar provider will handle all the paperwork. However, the approval must be taken from the building department or the electric utility to get the green light before actual installation.
System Size and Complexity
Larger systems in commercial buildings or rural businesses will take more time than smaller projects. Larger systems require more panels and more time for solar equipment installation. Besides, the complexity matters a lot. For example, a solar panel energy system with battery backup or direct current (DC) converters will require more time.
Space/Roof Type and Condition
You are going to install the system on the roof or in an open field. The condition of the space impacts the solar panel installation process. Tile or slate roofs are harder to work with for solar installation firms. The same goes for steep slopes or roofs with complex shapes.
Installer Availability
You need to find a solar panel installation company or a solar installer to install the system. It can impact the entire process. You may need to wait for solar installations in busy seasons and vice versa.
Weather Conditions
Installing the system in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, and high winds delays the overall time since installation is done outdoors. Locations with a long rainy season experience installation delays of several days to a couple of weeks.
If Electrical Upgrades Are Required
You might need to upgrade the electrical panels to handle the solar panel energy system. It will increase the installation timeline to 1 to 2 weeks or more.
Equipment Availability
Receiving the necessary equipment, like solar panels, inverters, racking systems, or batteries, can also delay the process. High demand, global supply chain issues, and custom orders can lead to equipment backorders as well.
Residential vs. Commercial Building vs. Agricultural Businesses
The type of property also has an impact on the timeline. Residential solar installations are smaller and completed quickly. Commercial buildings use larger systems, requiring more time to install. Agricultural businesses, on the other hand, face unique challenges like access to the site, aged infrastructure, or specialized energy demands.
Installer Experience and Crew Size
Skilled workers can complete the task quickly. Besides, a team with a larger crew size can finish the installation faster.
How to Reduce Installation Time
Choose a Reputable and Experienced Solar Installer
Always hire an experienced and reputable solar installer who is familiar with local permit processes, utility requirements, and interconnection agreements. If you are based in Wisconsin and require solar for your home, then Lehmann Electrical offer a complete solar installation service that Let smooth the process. Our company contains –
- Certified, licensed, and insured.
- Has a large, dedicated operations team.
- Offer in-house permitting and engineering.
- We have a good connection with the utility provider.
- Offer clear solar system design documentation
Keep the design simple
A simpler solar panel system ensures faster solar equipment installation. Besides, standardized systems are better for approval, installation, and inspection. So, avoid complex design and do not go for a customized design.
Prepare Your Roof in Advance
Keep your roof or installation space clean, strong, and structurally sound to eliminate delays. Make sure the roof has no leaks, weak areas, and shade from trees or other structures. Repair the roof if necessary before the installation.
Handle Permits and Paperwork Early
Try to submit the permit application immediately after selecting your solar provider. Your provider might help here.
Prequalify for Financing
Do not start managing the money after the installation process has started. Manage the financing beforehand. Keep all the documents ready for a loan, solar incentives, or the solar tax credit.
Schedule During Off-Peak Seasons
Try to install the panels during off-peak seasons since you will find a lot of installers. Early winter is better for this.
Ensure Site Accessibility
Make the site accessible to the installer. Clear the driveways and work areas, provide unobstructed access to electrical panels, and ensure roofs and surrounding areas are free of debris. It allows the team of technicians to move faster.
Maintain Clear Communication
Keep regular communication with the solar provider for signatures, inspections, or approvals. It will fasten the operation. Respond the emails and calls faster, attend the scheduled inspection appointment, and follow through on the requested additional items or documents.
FAQs
Can I use my solar system before utility approval?
No, you cannot use the system before utility approval. It is illegal.
Can I install solar panels during the winter?
Yes, you can install the solar panels during the winter. You can do it year-round. However, snow or ice during winter can delay the process.
Can I live in my home during the installation?
Yes, you can stay in your house during installation since the process is non-invasive and most of the work is done outside.
Can HOA denial delay or block my solar project?
Yes, the homeowners’ association (HOA) can restrict the project.
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