The Steps to Go Solar: Part 3

Your panels are on the roof—now what?

In parts one and two of our step-by-step guide, we demonstrated how Summit Solar designs and installs solar panels for your home. Once your panels are on the roof, you’re all set, right? Well, not quite. There are a few more things that happen before you can start saving power and on utility bills.

As a solar installer servicing Rockford, IL, we’ll share what you can expect once the panels are up on the roof and connected to your electrical system.

SEE ALSO: Can I Go Off the Grid with a Solar Energy System?

Step Seven: Inspector Visits

Before you officially start using your solar energy system, an inspector will first need to visit your house and approve the installation. The inspector will arrive likely in one or two weeks, and until then, a permit will hang on your meter (we’ll put it there for you). The inspector will check your licenses and will ensure your system meets the necessary building codes and safety regulations. Your utility company may come to your property to inspect the system too. Once your home is approved, you’ll receive Permission to Operate (PTO), and you’ll turn your system on. As your solar installer, we’ll be there for you every step of the way, communicating expectations and answering any questions.

Step Eight: Ready to Start

Now that our installation has passed inspection, you’re ready to use solar power! We’ll send you an email instructing how to start the system. All switches must be in the “on” position. Once on, your inverter will power up, which may take up to five minutes to do. A solid green light should be on display. If the light is off, your system will either be on standby (at night or during cloudy weather), or the system is off. If the light is red or yellow, there is a system error, and you can give us a call.

Step Nine: Start Saving

Now that your system is finally up and running, the last step is to enjoy your new life with solar panels. You’ll save on your monthly utilities, as now you’ll be putting energy on to the grid during the day and will be rewarded for doing so. In the state of Illinois, you’ll receive a Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) for every megawatt-hour your property produces. You’ll sell these SRECs back to the utility company, covering any grid power you may need to use (like at night).

The net metering program will also credit you for the energy you produce, which will lower the cost of your panels. And the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) will balance the cost of your panels by 30%. You’ll lower your taxes and won’t experience any increase on your property tax.

So that’s how you install solar panels! Is your home ready to go solar? Contact Summit Solar to get started today.