It is imperative to familiarize our clients with the workflow of solar projects in order to set accurate expectations before entering into a contract. Compared to simple home improvement projects, solar is a bit more involved. Solar installations require coordination from engineers, utility representatives, suppliers, and permit review technicians at the localities we serve. Lets take a closer look at what is involved:

Step 1: Site Survey

Once you have approved the design for your solar installation, we will begin to gather the information we need to move forward. This will include a thorough site survey in which we manually measure your roof and gather data on your home. We will record structural details including rafter spacing, rafter size, rafter span, rafter composition, roof deck composition, and roof condition. The site survey will also include an assessment of your electrical service. We will inspect and record information regarding your main service panel, grounding electrode (ground rod), utility meter, and any sub panels throughout the property. Lastly, we will take drone photos of the property and provide them to you, the homeowner, for your convenience.

Step 2: Engineering

Once we compile all of the information on your property, it is time to draft a structural and electrical plan set. This process normally takes about 4-5 days to complete. We then submit the plans to the city for review.

Step 3: Permits and Interconnection

Solar installs require a building permit, electrical permit, and utility interconnection approval. We submit for all of this as soon as we complete the engineering process. Normally, the permits are approved quickly without any revisions required. Once we pay for the permits and receive interconnection approval from Dominion Energy, we are ready to install!

Step 4: Installation

Our crews normally arrive for installation at 8:00 AM and leave by 6:00 PM. Almost all installations are completed in a day, but there are some exceptions here and there. As for what to expect while the crew is one site, prepare for some banging and drilling on the roof. Our crew will also need to access the attic to run wire from the roof down to your point of interconnection. Once install in complete, our crew lead will conduct a walk through and answer any questions you have.

Step 5: Inspection

The day the installation is complete, we call for the electrical and building inspections. We schedule the inspection based on your availability, but we prefer to get it done as quickly as possible. Our technician will meet the inspector on site and open the electrical boxes and provide any pictures that are required.

Step 6: Permission to Operate and Energize!

The final step is to have Dominion Energy reprogram your electrical meter. The bi-directional reprogramming is what enables you to engage in net metering, as discussed in earlier blog posts. Once Dominion gets this done, you will receive a Permission to Operate (PTO) letter. This is the last step. All that’s left to do now is turn the system on and make power from the sun!