Preparingy for a Solar Installation

While you must first decide between solar thermal and PV installations, you might want to consider utilizing both options when installing your solar energy devices. But to begin, there are several steps an installation of solar energy requires.

1. Screen the solar energy contractors who are bidding for the installation project. You want this to be an expertly conducted job that will last for a long time and will not cause distress due to poor workmanship. Basic standards include state approval, inclusion on the list of approved installers from the NABCEP website, or referrals from listing agencies that provide reputable contractors for users’ consideration.

Any reputable contractor will have available evidence of their expertise. This may be in the form of actual installations that can be directly observed, referrals and recommendations, or via the online community. Ask around as well. You may receive some useful recommendations from friends or others who have had positive experiences with an expert contractor. Or conversely, you may find information that will protect you from a negligent contractor.

2. Verify credentials. This is especially necessary if you are planning to apply for a rebate or loan on your solar energy panel installation. To verify a contractor’s credentials it is often as easy as checking their company’s website, but you must also remember to confirm that the contractor is licensed in the state in which you are planning to install the solar panels, as different states have different licensing requirements. The state contractor’s licensing board and the state consumer protection office are two helpful resources for determining the validity of your preferred installer’s credentials.

3. Personally check the referrals of your preferred contractor(s) to confirm their professionalism and expertise in installing solar energy panels. A reputable contractor will freely offer evidence of their previous work and contact information for their clients.

4. Request detailed information from the installer, such as the time frame required for the solar energy panel installation at your home or work place. An actual site visit should be conducted by the contractor so that any difficulties or challenges in the installation process can be noted and explained to you in language that you can understand and agree to.

5. Discuss the installation agreement. The installation process may take anywhere from a couple of months to a year, depending on rebate approval, material availability and weather conditions. Fall is often the preferred time for solar energy panel installations, which may lengthen your personal installation project.

6. Fill out the necessary paperwork. You will have to ensure that all related agencies and authorities are informed of your proposed solar energy installation, and all permits have been approved.   Your contractor should be well versed on the state regulations to ensure a smooth flow of the installation process.

Once the installation is complete, state authorities will need to inspect the work to assure full compliance of safety rules and regulations for such installations. A copy of the state’s approval of the system will be given to you for your records. The last