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WELCOME TO YOUR SOLAR JOURNEY

Here you can learn about the process you’ve begun with us.

STEP 1

DESIGN

As your path begins, the first step you take is to schedule a site survey with one of our solar technicians. This will allow us to collect all the information we’ll need to customize your solar system design. Your technician will coordinate with you, especially if you are needed for access. Once you’ve agreed on a date and time for your appointment, you’re good to go.

This information will be given to our design team so they can create a customized solar model. Once you have approved the design and signed the contract, our engineers will iron out the system details.

Duration: 3 to 7 Business Days

STEP 2

Permit

You’ve made it to the permit stage! Now that we’ve got your final approval on your design, we’ll be moving forward by submitting permit and utility applications. Rejoice and relax! We’ll keep you updated as we keep an eye on their status. While we’re waiting, you can scroll down to our FAQ and learn about topics like how to get your home ready for solar and start saving even before it’s installed.

Once your permit application for your solar PV system is submitted and approved, it’s time to continue on your journey. When we’ve got the necessary authorizations for installing and operating the system, you’ll receive a link for scheduling. As soon as we are ready with a date for installation, we can move on to the next step.

Please note: while we’ll submit our request for a permit as quickly as possible, at the end of the day, the amount of time this takes depends on your local government’s department of permits.

Duration: 7 to 10 Business Days

STEP 3

The Build

Finally, your path has led to the installation of your new solar system! You’ve received a message with the time and date of your appointment. While our crew will arrive early in the morning around 6–7am and knock on the door, you don’t have to worry about waking up and greeting them. They’re just letting you know they’ve arrived and are heading up to the roof! We’ll follow the same routine every morning until completion. Unless you are needed to give them access, you don’t even have to be at home for the installation. How easy is that?

Duration: 1 to 2 Business Days

STEP 4

Utility Approval

We’re nearing the end of your installation journey! Now that your solar PV system has been completely set up, we will notify your utility company to schedule their inspection. After they’ve reviewed the system and required documents, they will send a notification if everything is approved. Then it’s time to power on your solar array!

Please note: while we’ll submit our request for approval as quickly as possible, at the end of the day, the amount of time this takes depends on your location and utility company.

While you’re waiting for your solar system to be activated, why not add to your newfound energy independence? There are plenty of ways to improve your lifestyle every day!

Duration: 10 to 20 Business Days

STEP 5

Powering Up

Congratulations, you’ve arrived at the final and best step! After weeks of anticipation, your home is ready for the sun to power it up. Our site superintendent will walk you through the system so you’ll know how to monitor your solar impact. If you’re not able to meet up, they will leave a commissioning binder for you to keep and reference as needed.

We thank you for allowing us to support you in the beginning of your solar journey. Your environmental impact through solar power will leave a positive mark on the world. Know someone interested in all the benefits you’re enjoying? Refer them and you could get a bonus, too! If you have any questions, please contact us at any time!

Duration: 1 to 2 Business Days

STEP 6

Service

Now that you’ve taken the steps to get involved with renewable energy, we want you to know that you’re not alone on this journey. We’re here for you, ready to assist however needed if any help is required with your solar array. Please don’t hesitate to let us know when you need service.

Need something specific or not sure what’s happening so you want to talk with someone? Go to our Contact Us page. We’re happy to discuss any questions or comments you may have. Excited about your new solar system and want to spread the love? Fill out our Referrals form and get rewarded with a $500 gift card for every solar installation you help get started. We’d also appreciate you taking the time to leave us a review!

And if you’re looking for even more ways to save on both energy and costs, try working your magic not just at home but at work!

FAQ

Why would I want to go solar?

Your everyday electricity uses at home will be powered with renewable energy created by the sun! Not only will you be joining over a million other homes in the US in taking a step towards a brighter, cleaner energy future – you’ll be improving the value of your house. You don’t have to worry about nighttime or cloudy days interrupting your service, as the excess power your panels generate will be sent to your utility provider’s grid, available to your home to draw power from when the sun’s not out.

The cherry on top? On average, solar panels require little maintenance, and under the production warranty, you’ll be covered for 25 or more years. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the power generated by your sound investment. Become part of more than 1 million homes that have gone solar in the US.

How do I get my home ready for solar?

If you want to make the most of lowering your carbon footprint, you can start even before you install your solar array. In fact, your utility company might offer rebates for some of these improvements, so make sure to check with them before you begin.

Replacing all your old lights with LED lights is a great place to start. LEDS use 90% less electricity, have no mercury, and on average last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. You can also check the insulation in your attic and the seals on your doors and windows to keep the indoor temperature steady, so that you can save up to 10% on your electricity bills.

On that note, if your A/C is older than 10 years, you might consider a new system with higher efficiency. Using up to 40% less energy than the older models means that you could save up to 20% a year on electricity. While you’re at it, this would be a great time to get a smart thermostat (if you don’t have one already). This way you can set your home temperature from wherever you are or let the useful gadget automatically adjust so that you save money while remaining comfortable in your home.

While this may seem like a lot of extra tasks to add to your To Do list, just think of how much you’ll save in the long run – especially when you take advantage of the incentives for adopting solar. Plus, if you’ve already got the right financing for your solar-powered lifestyle, going green is going to save you green.

What’s in a solar array?

Your solar PV system consists of four to five main components. The most important and most obvious one is, of course, the solar panel. The panels we install on your roof contain photovoltaic (PV) cells under tempered glass that can withstand the harshest weather conditions. You can feel confident and comfortable in your choice of solar provider, knowing we use ethically-made panels. They are mounted on the next component: your roof racking system. This is the equipment that is actually attached to the roof. Flashing is installed with it to prevent any leaks.

Now we’ve made it to the solar inverter. This is the piece that converts the DC power from the panels into AC power usable throughout your home. The last necessary component is the solar meter and monitoring system, which, as the name implies, helps you keep an eye on your solar production. You can monitor your solar array’s output, and often your home energy consumption as well, in real time.

The final component, a battery, is optional – but growing more popular by the day. It allows homeowners to store their extra energy right at home, rather than having all the excess going to your utility provider’s grid. Then when it’s raining or otherwise dark outside, you’ve still got your personal sun with you, ready to go.

How do solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work?

Solar PV panels absorb energy from sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. Most buildings, whether homes or businesses, run on alternating current (AC) electricity. An inverter changes the DC electricity to AC so it’s usable for the average person. Then you’ll either use your electricity or it will go into the electric grid.

Can I go off-grid with solar panels?

You won’t rely on it as much as before, but you’ll still be connected to the grid when solar panels are installed on your property. The benefit is that if you need more electricity on any given day, you can draw energy from the grid. When your panels produce more than you’re able to use, you’ll send power back. If you install a solar battery, you will need the grid even less.

Do solar panels work during a blackout?

If a blackout occurs and your solar PV system is connected to the grid, it will shut off. This keeps emergency responders and electric utility repair-people from getting injured if your panels are sending power back to the grid. Yet you can prepare for this situation – there are inverters that, when paired with a solar battery, can provide backup energy even when there’s a power outage.

Do my solar panels produce power when the sun isn’t shining?

Since the energy your solar PV system generates depends on how much sunlight hits it, the answer is no – at least during the night, when the sun is nowhere to be seen. However, when the weather is cloudy, if there’s any light the panels will still produce energy, just less than they would on a sunny day.

Am I still going to receive an electric bill when I have solar panels?

Yes, your utility company will still send you a bill for the amount of non-solar electricity you use. Only if your solar PV system includes battery storage and you’re able to fully disconnect from the grid will you have no electricity bill.

Can my Homeowner's Association (HOA) deny my solar application?

No. Arizona, Nevada, California, and Texas are all states that have solar rights laws. These make it illegal for HOAs to prohibit homeowners from installing solar PV systems on their property.

How much does solar panel maintenance cost?

There is actually very little regular maintenance that solar panels require. Since they’re made of durable tempered glass, they normally need to be taken care of only a few times a year. The main thing you’ll need to do is rinse them with a garden hose so that they’re clear of dust and debris, every 2-3 months or after a dust storm. It’s also recommended to give them a thorough cleaning once a year so that you can get rid of any hard water spots.

Does solar make sense if I'm not staying in this house for 25 years?

On average, a solar PV system will last around 25 to 30 years. Not only does it increase the value of your property, it can even speed up the process of selling when you’ve decided it’s time to move. There are plenty of buyers in any housing market that are excited to acquire a home that comes with lower utility bills.

How do I reach out to you?

You can find multiple ways to chat with us at our Contact Us page, or message us through Facebook or Instagram. We’re eager to help with any questions or comments you may have!