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Switching to solar is an exciting decision that can lead to lower electricity bills, energy independence, and a smaller carbon footprint. However, if you’ve never been through the process before, you may have questions about how everything works.
The transition to solar should be simple and stress-free as possible. The right company will guide you through each step, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during your solar installation process, from your first consultation to "flipping the switch" on your new solar system.
Step 1: Free Consultation & Custom Solar Design
Your journey starts with a free, no-obligation consultation where you will have your home’s energy needs evaluated, roof suitability, and potential solar savings. A solar consultant will review your current electricity usage, discuss your energy goals, and explain how a solar system can benefit you.
What Happens During Your Consultation?
✅ Electricity Bill Review: Your energy consumption will be analyzed to determine how many solar panels you need and what battery storage and or backup system will be best for you.
✅ Site Evaluation: The roof’s condition needs to be assessed along with any shading, and orientation to design an efficient system.
✅ Financing Options: There are many available financing plans, tax incentives, and rebates to help you maximize savings. This will be discussed to find you the right option for your current financial budget.
✅ Customized System Design: A solar system will be designed to fit your home’s unique energy needs.
🔹 Your role: Provide a copy of your last year of electricity bills and let us know your long-term energy goals. These could include: getting an electric vehicle, upgrading your AC unit, adding a heat pump, and more.
🔹Company's role: Design the best solar solution for your home and answer any questions you may have.
Step 2: Permitting & Paperwork – Everything is Handled!
Once you approve your custom solar plan, a team will take care of all the necessary permits and paperwork. This step includes securing approvals from your city or county, obtaining interconnection agreements from your utility provider, and ensuring compliance with local building codes.
Common Permits & Approvals:
✅ City or county building permits
✅ Utility company approval for grid connection
✅ Homeowners Association (HOA) approvals, if required
How long does this step take?
Permitting timelines vary by location but typically take 2 to 6 weeks. Everything is coordinated to keep you updated throughout the process.
🔹 Your role: No action required—just sit back and relax while the red tape is navigated on your behalf!
🔹 Company's role: Submit permits, work with your local jurisdiction, and ensure a smooth approval process.
Step 3: Solar Installation – Fast & Hassle-Free
Once permit approval has been received, it is time to schedule your solar installation. Most residential solar installations take just 1 to 3 days, depending on system size and roof complexity. A professional team will ensure a high-quality installation that is both efficient and aesthetically pleasing.
What Happens on Installation Day?
1️⃣ Equipment Delivery: An experienced crew will arrive with everything needed to install your system. This includes your solar panels, batteries, inverters, mounting hardware and more.
2️⃣ Mounting Installation: The racking system will be securely attached to your roof to hold the solar panels in place.
3️⃣ Panels, Batteries & Inverter Installation: The panels and batteries will be installed and then be connected to your inverter system, which converts solar energy into usable electricity.
4️⃣ Electrical Work: The system is then connected to your home’s electrical panel and then you will have monitoring devices installed for real-time energy tracking.
5️⃣ Final Quality Check: The system is then inspected to ensure it meets our high standards before the final approval process.
🔹 Your role: Ensure clear access to your roof, garage, backyard and electrical panel for our crew. Certain areas are dependent on where everything is being installed such as the batteries and inverter.
🔹 Company's role: Install your solar system efficiently and safely, ensuring everything is up to code.
Step 4: Final Inspections & Utility Approval
Before your system can be turned on, it must pass an inspection by your local building department and receive final approval from your utility company. These inspections ensure your system is installed correctly and meets all safety standards.
What to Expect During the Inspection Process:
✅ City/County Inspection: A local inspector will come by to verify that your solar system meets building and electrical codes. They will need access to where everything was installed. That can include your garage and or backyard.
✅ Utility Interconnection Approval: Your utility company ensures the system is safely connected to the grid.
✅ Permission to Operate (PTO): Once approved, your utility provider gives the green light to turn on your system.
How long does this step take?
The approval process can take anywhere from 30-90 days, depending on your local jurisdiction and utility provider.
🔹 Your role: Be available for any required appointments.
🔹 Company's role: Coordinate inspections and ensure your system gets approved as quickly as possible.
Step 5: System Activation – Start Saving with Solar!
Once you receive Permission to Operate (PTO) from your utility company, it’s time to "flip the switch"! Your system will start generating power while saving you money, creating clean, renewable energy, reducing your reliance on the grid and lowering your monthly electricity bills.
What Happens After Activation?
✅ System Walkthrough: You will be guided through how to monitor your solar production with a user-friendly app or website.
✅ Warranty & Maintenance Info: You will receive details on your system’s warranty and answer any maintenance questions.
✅ Immediate Energy Savings: You start producing your own electricity, reducing or even eliminating your monthly power bill!
🔹 Your role: Enjoy your new solar-powered home!
🔹 Company's role: Ensure your system is running optimally and provide ongoing customer support.
Why Choose Planet Solar for Your Installation?
With over 17 years of experience serving California’s solar needs, Planet Solar is dedicated to delivering high-quality, stress-free solar installations.
Here’s why homeowners trust us:
✔ Expert Guidance: We handle everything from start to finish, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
✔ Premium Equipment: We use high-efficiency solar panels and inverters for maximum energy production.
✔ Affordable Financing: We help you take advantage of solar incentives, tax credits, and financing options.
✔ Fast & Professional Installation: Our experienced team ensures your system is installed safely and efficiently.
✔ Long-Term Support: We’re here to assist you even after your system is up and running.
Ready to Go Solar? Get Started Today!
Making the switch to solar is easier than ever with Planet Solar. Contact us today for a no obligation quote, and take the first step toward energy savings!
📞 Call us at (559) 228 - 9245
📍 Serving Central Valley & Coachella Valley
🌍 Visit us online at www.planetsolar.com
Your Solar Installation Journey: What to Expect from Start to Finish
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