How long does it take to install solar panels

For an outsider, it’s hard to evaluate how much time and effort should go into placing a PV system on your roof. Some worry that the process takes months. That’s why our customers often ask us: “How long does it take to install solar panels?” Here is the answer from our engineer.

Home solar installation takes 2-3 weeks to install

To put a solar system on your roof, you have to:
• find an installer;
• have an engineer take a look at your roof;
• get approval from local authorities,
• have a system installed
• invite an electrician from utility to connect the system to the grid. 

In an off-grid system, you may skip some of the steps, depending on the laws and guidelines about solar system installations in your area and the amount of work that you are willing to do yourself.

Getting a solar permit from your town or county official usually takes the longest. The procedure varies depending on where you live. In some places, the process is streamlined and you get approval within a few days. When if your house is in the county jurisdiction, it often takes longer. You can ask your installer to get the permits for you, but the company may charge you extra.

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Given that your roof is in good condition and you’re working with professionals, the actual solar panels installation process takes only a day or two. All work takes place outside so you can go on with your life as usual. After the installation, a utility representative comes over to install an electric meter. 

When we sum together to time it takes to find an installer, have him come to your house, then get the papers from officials, and then install panels and then connect the system to the grid, we get 2-3 weeks. In the end how long does solar panel installation take to install depends on the place you live in, the condition of your house, and how prompt you, local officials, your installer, and your utility are

Big solar projects may take years to complete

Vasilii Smirnov

Solar Installation Expert

Commercial systems are a completely different story — we talk about projects that are at least 15kW in size. Depending on the scale, these can take months or even years to complete. Again, the hardest part of getting them going is getting the papers and scheduling the inspections. Supply issues may also significantly delay the completion of a project.

Of course, there are small installations such as RV and boat systems. They consist of one or two panels, they don’t need any permits and it’s something that you can do by yourself. In this case, how long does it take to install a solar panel on your trailer depends on how good you are with tools and electrics. 

Andrey Gorichenski

Senior Editor

Andrey had been a news editor and freelance writer for a number of medias before joining A1SolarStore team. Climate change and its impact on people's lives has always been among his interests and it partially explains his degree in Philosophy and Ethics.

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Vasilii Smirnov

Solar Installation Expert

Vasilii started his career in solar back in 2001. He had worked for some of the largest solar companies in Florida, such as SunPower and Unbound. Over 20 years he has installed 
about 2,000 MW of solar panels across the US.

More articles from this author