Solar Panel System GuideThe physical work of mounting panels is quick, but getting a system permitted, inspected, and connected to the grid takes longer. The Department of Energy states that while installation takes days, permits and inspections can take weeks to months. This guide explains the approval path and how to gauge the wait.
Who Handles Permits
Permitting is usually the installer's job, not the homeowner's. The Department of Energy states that the installer secures the required permits and schedules the inspections for the project.
That said, local rules drive the process. The Department of Energy advises checking local building permits when assessing a roof, in part to determine the roof's age, since installing solar during a roof replacement can save money. Knowing your jurisdiction's requirements early helps the timeline.
How Long Approval Takes
The approval phase is where most of the calendar time goes. The Department of Energy states that while installation takes days, permits and inspections can take weeks to months depending on local regulations.
To set expectations, the Department of Energy points homeowners to the SolarTRACE tool, which estimates permitting and inspection timelines for your jurisdiction. Checking it before you start gives a realistic sense of the wait in your area.
Connecting to the Grid
A grid-connected system has to work with your utility to export power. The Department of Energy explains that net metering is the arrangement under which owners are compensated for solar power exported to the electricity grid, and that whether it applies depends on your state and utility.
The agency advises researching the interconnection details in your service area, including availability, eligible system size, and customer type, before you count on exporting power. Contacting your local electric utility is the recommended way to confirm how your system will connect and be credited.