Did you know that the price of solar panels has declined by 99% since 1977? Once a futuristic concept, solar energy is now an affordable and practical solution. But how long will an installation take?

Unfortunately, there are lots of steps and variables to understand. Read on as we discuss the timeline for solar panel installation.

Choosing an Installation Expert

Choosing an expert company to begin installing solar panels can take around a week to a month. Most cities will have several experts and companies that provide the service. The task is to find one that best suits your needs. 

Begin by checking a company has the right licenses and certifications. Find out what levels of solar panel maintenance and service they offer. Finally, go with a company that has a proven track record and experience. 

The company itself may be able to provide testimonials. Check online review sites to see who other consumers have used. You may even have neighbors or family who can recommend them to you. 

Site Visits

Once you have chosen a company, they will visit your property and discuss solar panel design. This may include the type of panels and a rough cost. If you already have the details you can get an estimate at this link. 

The site will be visited by an electrician, roofer, and solar contractor. This information will be collated and a draft will be created using digital software. You can expect this to take around 1 to 2 weeks. 

Solar Panel Design Approval

Once all the information has been collected, your solar panel design can begin. This will take another 1 to 2 weeks. You will then have to approve the final draft.

When you approve the design, the company will submit it to the necessary people on your behalf. You may have to apply for some permits on your own or they may be able to do it for you. 

The timeline for approval can vary depending on the area you are in. At the most, you should not expect more than 4 weeks. It may even only last a few days.

Solar Panel Installation Timeline

Once complete and the permits are in place, the installation can begin. This should take around 1 week. of course, this depends upon the size and complexity of the roof with some smaller systems only taking a day!

Before switching it on a safety inspector must visit. They will look at the work and approve your system for use. The utility company may also decide to come and install a new meter, all of which could take another week. 

Starting the Process

Now you know the timeline for solar panel installation, you can begin the process. Find a reputable installer then get a quote. It won’t cause much disruption so you will be able to go about your daily business while this takes place. 

If you enjoyed this article, we have many more to assist. From DIY to renovation, we can help manage your property in the coming year.