Steps to Install Solar

 

Are you ready to transition to residential or commercial solar power and wondering what to expect? There are many steps to install solar, but the time it will take to achieve energy savings and security may be shorter than you think. Careful planning and professional design by PacWest Solar, East Washington’s trusted solar company, ensures optimal solar energy system performance and lasting use. Here’s an overview of what to expect on your path to energy independence.

 

Solar Power System Installation Steps

 

Our solar panel team can design and install most solar panel systems in about 1-3 months from start to finish. We include every step of solar installation in your project quote, including:

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1. Energy usage and site assessment

We’ll begin by calculating your energy usage and evaluating your home or business’s site conditions, including its layout and size, roof condition, sun orientation, trees, and shade.

2. Solar energy system design and approval

Following the assessment, we’ll discuss your installation preferences, including energy production goals, ground or rooftop panel locations, on or off-grid use, net metering availability, system size, and budget.

3. Permit applications

Once you’ve approved your solar energy system design, PacWest Solar will obtain the necessary utility, zoning, and HOA permits to begin installation.

4. Discuss solar incentives

While awaiting permit approval, we’ll review federal, state, and local solar installation incentives available to you and begin paperwork as available.

5. Install solar panel mounting equipment

After we receive the necessary permits, our solar installation contractors will begin fitting your ground or rooftop solar panel mounting structures.

6. Solar panel and battery backup installation

Once we’ve added the necessary mounting equipment, we’ll install your new solar panels and battery storage system, if included, configuring your system for optimal performance and safety.

7. Electrical panel upgrades, wiring, and inverter installation

Following the solar panel and battery system installation, we’ll add the necessary wiring and electrical components, including the electrical panel, inverters, and net metering equipment.

8. Integrate and test solar panel system components

Next, we’ll connect the wiring to the corresponding equipment. At this point, zoning, utility, fire, and other required inspections will be performed to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

9. Grid connection and activation

Once the inspectors and utility company approve your solar system installation, we’ll connect it to the grid, turn it on, and test solar panel performance.

10. Solar power system operational and maintenance instructions

Congratulations! You’re generating your own solar energy! Now, we’ll teach you how to operate and care for your system to ensure optimal energy production and lasting use.

 

Home Solar Installation Considerations

 

Our home solar panel installations typically range in output from 5-20 kW. Due to the property constraints of most residences, we perform more rooftop installations. Our skilled team can mount panels on even the steepest roofs. To reduce energy loss in transmission, we suggest investing in microinverters over less expensive string inverters. We also recommend a battery backup system to ensure access to electricity during brownouts and blackouts. We also recommend joining net metering programs, as available, to achieve a faster return on investment.

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Commercial Solar Installation Considerations

 

We have experience designing and installing commercial solar panel systems ranging from 20 kW to several megawatts. Configurations of this size require heavier-duty components and, therefore, must comply with stricter zoning, permitting, and engineering regulations to ensure safety. We suggest central inverters for handling larger commercial loads. Battery storage systems require careful consideration, weighing energy storage needs against equipment and installation costs. Depending on utility provider terms, customers should be advised that commercial net metering reimbursements may vary from full retail to lower wholesale rates.

 

Take Advantage of Available Solar Incentives Before They Disappear

 

Start the steps to install solar with an energy assessment from PacWest Solar. We serve all cities in Kootenai and Spokane Counties, including Athol, Coeur d Alene, Dalton Gardens, Fernan Lake Village, Harrison, Hayden Lake, Huetter, Post Falls, Airway Heights, Cheney, Deer Park, Liberty Lake, Medical Lake, Millwood, Spangle, Spokane, and Pullman. Contact us at 509-929-2728 to make an appointment at your home or business today.