What documentation do I need when installing solar panels?

If you’ve made the decision to install a home solar system, obtaining the necessary documentation is an important first step. Each year, thousands of homeowners go off the grid and make the switch to solar, but before you can have your solar panels installed, there is certain documentation that needs to be completed. In this article, our experienced solar technicians will explain the permits and the documents you’ll need, and if you have any questions – our team is happy to help. 

Permits and documents: the logistical paperwork required for your solar panel installation

The first step is to contact your county and city government offices and ask what their requirements are. If you’re working with a licensed solar company, then chances are they know the requirements and can help you understand them. It’s worth noting that not all cities require permits.

If your city requires you to obtain a permit, you’ll now need to prepare all the documents for your permit application. These typically include a roof plan, a site plan, a construction plan, an electrical plan, and a location plan, among others. Your solar installer should be familiar with the process and may be able to assist you in submitting your permit application. 

Next, your local government may ask you to attend a hearing before issuing your permit for solar panel installation. If this is the case, your solar installer can attend on your behalf and answer questions, such as what your panels will look like, but we also encourage you to attend the meeting as well. 

Solar panel permit approval and interconnection

Once your permit has been approved, your solar installer will pay for and pick up your permit, which needs to be on site during the installation of your solar panels. The permit will include information about which inspections are required during and after installation, and your solar company can help you schedule the necessary inspections. 

Many solar panels draw energy from the grid as a back-up electricity source, so you’ll also need to complete an interconnection agreement, which is between you and your utility company. This agreement notifies the utility company that you’re installing a home solar system and will be connecting it to their energy grid. 

For more information about the documentation needed to install a home solar system, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at Green House Solar today. We’d be happy to walk you through each stage of the solar panel documentation process.

Solar panel system installation: what to expect

If you’re considering installing a solar panel system at home, you may be wondering what happens during the installation process and what you can expect. More people are opting for home solar systems now because they want to break free from conventional energy, reduce their environmental footprint, and lower their monthly energy costs. 

In this article, we’ll discuss each step of the installation process from start to finish. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact our team today – they’ll be happy to help.

Step #1: Install Solar Panel Mounts

The first step is installing solar panel mounts. These pieces are affixed to your roof, and then your solar panels are affixed to the mounts. Your solar installer will inspect your roof to determine what type of mounts will work best, and then they’ll place them in the ideal position for maximum sun exposure. While it’s true that solar panels generate energy on cloudy days, you want your solar panels to be in the best position possible to absorb as much sunlight as they can, hency why it’s so important to properly place the mounts. 

Step #2: Install the Solar Panels

Once the mounts are firmly in place, it’s time to attach the solar panels to the mounts. Your solar installer will ensure the panels are properly attached to the mounts and that they’re angled correctly. It’s important that your solar panels are securely affixed to the mounts.

Step #3: Wire the Solar Panels

After your solar panels have been secured to the mounts, you’ll need to install the electrical wiring. Turn off your home’s power supply before this step. 

Step #4: Install Solar Inverter and Consumer Unit

The solar inverter is a crucial part of the home solar system. It converts sunlight into the energy used to power your home. Solar inverters are usually placed near the main solar panel, and we recommend they be kept in a cool place away from direct sunlight. 

The solar inverter will need to be connected to the consumer unit, which is your fuse board, in order to generate electricity. 

Step #5: Start and Test Solar Panels

You’re now ready to turn your power back on and let your solar panels get to work. Once your home solar system is up and running you can install an app on your phone that allows you to monitor your electricity usage in real time.

To learn more about solar power and how our team can install a home solar system for you, please call us today or visit our website at: https://greenhouse.solar