10 Steps To Installing Solar Panels

Step 4: Get the required approval

After designing your solar panels system, you can just start to install them, there are norms and regulations you need to follow and one of them is getting approval from the authorities.

Obtain permission from the building and zoning departments and approval from homeowners association or other authorities.

Also, you need the utility company interconnection agreement for those who are installing the grid-tied system, if it is a standalone system you do not need it.

Step 5: Shopping

Do not start buying items before getting those permissions in step 4. After getting them, you can start shopping for all the items you will need to install your solar panels.

You can shop online or at your local store, and get standard wiring equipment and other basic supply at your local store.

You can read about solar panels installation tools here:  https://energoboost.com/solar-panel-installation-tools/

Step 6: mechanical installation

Now you have everything you need, you are going to start the solar panel installation process, we divide it into three parts.

The first part of your installation process is to install your module support structure ( rooftop racking or ground mount structure) and solar panel modules.

At this point, you might have a city inspector verify your installation before moving to the installation process part 2.

Step 7: Conduit installation

Now you need to run a conduit between your solar panel array and ground-level components, also install a mounting bracket or a box for a string inverter if it is applicable.

Step 8: Electrical installation

Not it is a time to install the rest of the electrical components. Install the string inverter, the AC disconnect, and the production meter.

Make all AC electrical connections for the entire solar panel system up to your home’s main electrical service panel.

This step requires someone who is a qualified electrician, if you are not one, please be advised to hire or consult one.

Step 9: Final inspection

At this point, the authorities will inspect your installation to verify that it meets the required electrical and fire codes.

This process might take time since they will have to verify that every wiring and components used have the required standards.

Also, the utility company will want to inspect your installation to make sure that it is ready to connect to their grid, if applicable.

Step 10: Get your PTO

Now after a great job installing solar panels, and after the tedious inspections, your solar panel system is ready.

Now you need to get your permission to operate (PTO) letter from the utility company, turn on your solar panel system and enjoy the free energy for the next 3o years.

Conclusion

That is it, those are the 10 steps to installing solar panels. If you have any questions please leave them in the comment section below and we will do our best to reply to them.

If you have an issue with any of the steps above please contact solar experts in your local area, make sure you follow your local regulations.

The last thing you need to do is to install the whole solar panel system and then figure out you did not follow the laws.