How Long Does It Take to Install Solar Panels
Switching to solar power is one of the smartest things property owners and companies can do today. From saving on electricity bills to ensuring sustainability, there are so many benefits of going for solar power. But one of the biggest questions people ask before committing to invest is: How long does it take to install solar panels?
The price depends on infinite different things like system size, property type, permits, and level of installation complexity. Here, in this article, we will guide you through a normal solar installation process, what is done in each one, and why it is important to hire the correct company.
Understanding the Solar Installation Timeline
When individuals hear the term “installation,” they just think of the mounting of panels on the roof. In reality, the whole solar process from start to finish involves a number of steps—right from consultation to the end connection. Let’s de-complicate it.
1. Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
Your solar journey starts with a consultation. In this step, solar professionals visit your home, analyze your energy consumption, and suggest the appropriate size of the system. A site inspection is usually done to analyze roof condition, shading, and space available.
For residential systems, the inspection is typically completed in a single visit, while industrial systems may take slightly longer — up to a week — depending on the size and complexity of the project as well as your availability and the installer’s schedule.
2. System Design and Permits
After assessment, engineers create a custom system design for your home or business. At the same time, applications are submitted for local permits and approvals. Since permits depend on municipal regulations, this step can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks.
3. Ordering Equipment (1–2 weeks)
Once the design is approved, your installer orders solar panels, inverters, and other required equipment. If the products are in stock, this step can take just a week. For special requests or supply chain delays, it might extend slightly longer.
4. Installation of Solar Panels
Here’s the part everyone is curious about: How long does it take to install solar panels on the roof itself?
The good news: the physical installation is usually quick. Most residential systems can be installed in 1–3 days depending on system size and roof complexity. Commercial projects may take longer due to larger scale and wiring needs.
5. Inspection, Net Metering, and Utility Connection
Once installed, your system will have to undergo inspections to ensure all meets quality and safety standards.
If you’ve opted for an on-grid solar system with net metering, the process also includes:
- Obtaining net metering approval from NEPRA.
- Placing an AMI meter to track electricity you take from the grid and the surplus solar electricity you sell back.
This can take 2–3 weeks based on the rate of processing by the utility.
Total Timeline: From Start to Solar Power
So, how long does it take to install solar panels from beginning to end?
- Residential on-grid systems: 5–9 weeks on average
- On-grid commercial systems: 9–12 weeks typically
The actual installation process itself is brief, but the paperwork, permits, and net metering certificates required consume the entire time period.
Factors Which Can Influence Installation Time
- Condition of the roof: If pre-installation repairs are necessary, this will take additional time.
- Permit approvals: Some municipalities are faster than others.
- System size: Larger commercial systems naturally take longer.
- Weather: Poor weather, like heavy rainfall, heat, or storms, may cause delays.
- Net metering approvals: The utilities’ approval times vary by city and area.
Why Speed Cannot Be Your Only Concern
No one would like to have long waits for an installation, but quality and safety should never be compromised. Good wiring, proper panel placement, and equipment are included with the correct installer. A few extra days’ wait is worth it if it brings long-term savings on energy and peace of mind.
Wrapping Up
If you’ve ever wondered, “How long does it take to install solar panels?” the answer is that the actual installation is fast—just a few days. The longer part comes from permits, approvals, and net metering, which can stretch the process into several weeks.
With the appropriate selection of a solar partner, you can have a hassle-free, stress-free experience with no hold-up.
At DSG Energy, we are not only providing solar panels but whole peace of mind. With our best engineers, state-of-the-art equipment, and thoroughly tried and tested on-grid net metering installations, we make going solar easy so you save time, effort, and money.
“The best time to go solar was yesterday. The next best time is today.”
FAQs
Residential installations typically take 1–3 days to actually install, but the entire process (permits and approvals) takes 5–9 weeks.
Solar panels should ideally be installed under dry, uniform weather. Heavy rain, heavy winds, or extreme weather would postpone the installation for safety purposes.
Net metering is a program under which it is your choice to export the surplus electricity from your solar panels into the grid as credits. These credits offset your electricity bill, and hence, solar becomes even more economical. DSG Energy offers on-grid solar systems with net metering approval and installation.
