Residential Solar Installation Timeline: What to Expect

July 15, 2024by Boston Solar0 Comments

How Long Does It Take to Install Solar Panels?

So you’d like to start enjoying greater energy independence and lower utility bills, and you’re ready to start reaching out to solar providers to get answers to your questions. You may be wondering “How long does it take to install solar panels?” or “How fast can I get solar installed on my roof?”

Homeowners throughout Massachusetts often ask us these types of questions, and we’re pleased to share the details of what they can expect with the installation of their residential solar PV system, from start to finish.

How the Solar Installation Process Works

The solar installation process involves a few key steps to ensure your solar PV system is perfectly suited for your home and properly filed with your town. The period between our initial meeting and installation is typically between 90 and 120 days; however, that time frame could be as short as 30 – 45 days depending on your town’s permit process.

With Boston Solar, we don’t use any subcontractors and our whole solar team is vertically integrated, meaning from the first call to turning on your system, you’ll be with the team here at Boston Solar. This also helps streamline the process for you!

1. Meeting with Boston Solar and Signing a Contract

Our process starts when we schedule a time for one of our in-house solar experts to meet with you at your home. During our initial meeting, we’ll discuss the benefits of renewable solar energy as well as your goals for going solar. Then, during a follow-up visit, we’ll talk about the optimal system options for your home, pricing, and financing options before you sign a contract.

2. Design & Engineering (30-45 days)

Once you sign your contract, one of our experienced solar technicians will visit your home to fine-tune the details of your solar energy system design. We’ll make sure your system is perfectly suited for your home and order the materials needed for installation. This process typically takes 30 to 45 days.

3. Permits & Materials (30-40 days)

Once your system design is confirmed, your dedicated Customer Experience Coordinator will pull all necessary permits for your solar installation. This typically takes 30 to 40 days or less, depending on your town. We’ll keep you updated throughout this process.

4. Solar Panel Installation (1-5 days)

When your town approves the permits for your system, your coordinator will call to schedule your installation. The installation process itself usually takes only one to three days and is completed by a highly skilled team of in-house installers.

5. Inspections & Commissioning (15 to 30 days)

After your solar panels have been installed, our team will conduct a quality control review and attend all inspections by your local building department. After inspections, your local utility will swap out your electrical meter and give permission to operate (PTO). Then, your coordinator will schedule a time for our Solar Commissioner to test and turn on your system. The inspections and commissioning process typically takes 15 to 30 days.

Install Solar in 2019 for Greater Financial Benefits

Because the solar installation timeline can cover a period of a few months, it’s important to plan ahead if you’re looking to go solar soon. This year is an especially advantageous time to start the solar installation process, as there are still a number of financial incentives in place.

…but not for long! While the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit is still in place in 2019, it will drop to 26% after this year — and then disappear by 2022. Meanwhile, there is still time this year to qualify for statewide SMART incentives