Solar panel installation  is a big project, and it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you start. Your energy demand, your roof layout, the number of panels you need and more are all factors that will determine how long your project takes. There are hardware costs, like the cost of the materials included in your system, as well as soft costs, which include things like labor, permitting and design.

Once your contractor has received the necessary permits and your solar panels have arrived, they can begin work. They will first inspect your roof and ensure it’s structurally sound and free of obstructions. Then, they’ll set up the mounting system, which can be either roof or ground mounts. Once the mounting system is in place, they can install and connect the solar panels themselves. This process can be done within a day, but it’s important to remember that larger systems require more wires than smaller ones.

The Ultimate Guide to Solar Panel Installation: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Next, the installation crew will turn off your house’s electricity and install the electric wiring that will connect the solar panels with each other (in a series), to a solar inverter, to a battery or EV chargers (if you’re including them in your system) and finally to your city electric grid connection. They will also likely install an energy meter, if your system comes with one. Once everything is connected and tested, the system is ready to produce clean, renewable energy!