Solar Contractors: The Key Players in Your Solar Panel Installation
A high school diploma and construction experience are generally required to become a solar panel installer. Depending on the state, some solar companies may require specialized licenses or certifications for their contractors. Whether a company uses in-house or subcontractors should also be noted, as it impacts the sales and installation process. Solar providers that use subcontractors focus solely on sales and marketing but may outsource the installation work to their partners.
Design
A solar contractor will inspect your roof. Then, they’ll design a system to fit your unique energy needs, considering things like your roof shade, electricity usage, and local incentives and tax credits that may be available. Once the design is completed, the next step is to build and install the system. It may be done by the same company that did the design and engineering or a third-party contractor specializing in installing PV systems. Solar contractors must perform the installation correctly so your system will function properly and pass the commissioning process. Before granting the project’s “permission to operate” and interconnection approval for grid-connected PV systems, the utility will inspect and approve it. A third-party organization typically conducts this inspection to avoid potential conflicts of interest. The contractor will also verify that the site is free of shading from nearby trees and other structures that might interfere with its ability to harvest solar energy.
Commissioning
Often, the same company that designed your system will be the one to install it. It is a great way to ensure proper installation and commissioning. It is a big step for the solar contractor; they should have the expertise to get it right. Once the panels are attached to the rails, they must be wired together and connected to a charge controller that changes the sun’s energy into usable electricity. The wiring also goes to a PV disconnect switch that will quickly and easily shut down the system should the need arise and to your home’s circuit breaker box that connects the system to the grid.
Depending on the location of your project, it may also be necessary to go through inspections with your local building department and the utility company. The organization that chooses to go solar may differ from the building owner, and these teams must work closely together to coordinate the scheduling of inspections and ensure a seamless handoff. The ideal kind of siding and roofing for your house may vary depending on where in the nation you reside. Additionally, if you plan to go solar, discuss it with your roof and siding contractors to find the materials to help you make that decision.
Installation
Installing your solar PV system requires the skill and expertise of a trained professional. You can search for qualified installers online or ask friends and family members who have gone solar for recommendations. Look for credentials like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification. An array of solar panel specifications, including pricing, performance estimates, and sizes, will be sent to you by a solar company after they have evaluated your site. Be wary of unusually low quotes that signal subpar quality or hidden costs.
You’ll also want to check if your chosen installer is licensed in your area and familiar with the requirements of your local electric utility and homeowner’s association. Homeowners who install solar will often sign an interconnection agreement with their local electric utility stipulating the terms of connecting their distributed generation systems to the grid. It is usually a separate contract from the solar panel installation. Ensure the company you choose offers warranty support for the equipment and quality.
Maintenance
A good solar contractor will offer a maintenance program, including yearly inspections and cleaning. These services are often included in a package along with an energy monitoring system. They can also have a warranty to cover repairs and replacement of components. Besides a sudden drop in power output, the most obvious sign that a solar panel needs servicing is when it doesn’t produce enough energy consistently. Checking the wattage rating of your panels on a sunny day can help you monitor their performance and look for any other signs like a build-up of dirt or debris.
Generally speaking, solar panels can withstand most weather conditions, including snow and hail. However, if you notice damage to your panels, consult a professional as soon as possible. A good solar company will take the local climate into account during the installation process and can also recommend the best repair methods.