Introduction
The actual installation of a solar panel system only takes a day or two — however, a lot more than just the installation goes into a solar project. It all starts with a free design and consultation from a Solar Wave expert. Once a system is designed, financing is determined, and an install agreement is signed, the real work begins. Below is every step included in a solar installation with the average timeframe for each, so you know exactly what to expect when you go solar with us.
Engineering
Once you are officially signed up to go solar with us, the first step is engineering. Here we take your solar design and turn it into fully engineered electrical and structural plans. These plans are necessary to apply for your permit and net metering application. We use professional engineers who specialize in solar, and they normally take one week to complete plans for us.
Net metering application
With engineering completed, we can submit an application to your utility company for net metering approval. This application and approval process is very important, as net metering is essential in the operation of your solar system. Most utility companies have up to 90 days to approve a net metering application. Xcel Energy has a 45–60 day process, and applications are very easily delayed.
Permitting
This step is based on your local city or county solar permitting guidelines. Some unincorporated areas do not require permits for solar projects, which can expedite your project, whereas other jurisdictions have added rules that can prolong this stage. Regardless of your project's requirements, we handle all communication and work to apply for and gain the correct permits — normally within one week.
Installation
This is where the magic happens. Most of our customers are impressed at how efficiently our teams install a solar panel system. This only takes one to two days depending on your project scope.
Inspections
If your project required a permit, the permitting jurisdiction will inspect our installation to make sure everything matches the approved engineering plans. After they approve the installation, your utility company will also complete an inspection and swap out your electrical meter. This can take up to four weeks; however, we request inspections right away and normally have them completed within two weeks of your installation.
Permission to Operate (PTO)
This is the final step. Permission to operate comes from your utility company, and it's what allows you to turn on your new solar panel system. This normally happens immediately after your utility company swaps out your electric meter — in most cases one to two weeks after your permitting jurisdiction inspection.
Timeline at a glance
| Step | Typical timeframe |
|---|---|
| Engineering | 1 week |
| Net metering application | 45–60 days (Xcel) |
| Permitting | 1 week |
| Installation | 1–2 days |
| Inspections | ~2 weeks after install |
| Permission to Operate | 1–2 weeks after inspection |
Summary
All timelines combined, you can have a solar project installed in under 60 days. When you are ready to get started, let us know — we're always standing by to make going solar an enjoyable experience for you and your family.
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Steven Weaver
Steven is the founder of Solar Wave and has dedicated the last seven years of his career to the solar industry. After consulting for multiple solar companies across the US he founded Solar Wave in Denver, Colorado. Solar Wave is on a mission to continue the rapid deployment of residential and commercial solar in Colorado by offering the best solar equipment and installation services at the lowest prices possible.
