Going solar is an exciting journey toward energy independence and environmental sustainability. However, for many homeowners, the installation process can seem complex and a bit intimidating. At True South Solar, we’re committed to making the transition to solar as smooth and transparent as possible. In this post, we’ll walk you through each stage of the process, so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
What to Expect:
The first step is meeting with one of our experienced solar advisors to discuss your energy needs, property details, and goals. We’ll look at your roof’s suitability, electricity usage, and any shading factors that might affect solar performance. For those who qualify, we’ll also provide insight into available incentives that can make the switch more affordable.
How to Prepare:
Gather recent utility bills and have a rough idea of your energy goals (like reducing bills or gaining backup power). This helps our team design a system that’s custom-tailored for your needs. Whether or not you’re interested in pursuing backup battery power solutions like Tesla Powerwall, we can always make an estimate of with and without a battery for you, but this is a good thing to consider and discuss with your spouse ahead of time. Finally, consider whether your energy needs will be increasing in the future because you’ll be buying a hot tub, an electric vehicle, or switching any appliances from gas to electric.
System Design and Proposal
What to Expect:
Once we’ve gathered your info, our design team will create a custom solar system plan, factoring in your roof layout, sun exposure, and energy usage. We’ll provide a detailed proposal, including system specs, expected energy output, payoff timeline, and an outline of financing options.
How to Prepare:
Review the proposal thoroughly and ask any questions you might have. This is your opportunity to ensure the design and financing align with your goals. Our team is here to clarify and make adjustments to ensure the system fits you perfectly. The biggest complaint we hear from past clients is that they didn’t get enough solar panels, so plan ahead!
Permitting and Paperwork
What to Expect:
Once you approve the proposal, we’ll handle the permitting and paperwork, including applications for any incentives available through the Energy Trust of Oregon or the Oregon Department of Energy. Our team will work directly with your utility company and local permitting offices to get everything approved.
How to Prepare:
While True South Solar manages most of this process, stay available for any signatures or additional information that may be required to keep things moving quickly. Some emails come from us, some come from DocuSign (on our behalf), and some emails come from your utility. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call. We’re here for you!
Installation Day
What to Expect:
On installation day, our team will arrive ready to transform your home into a solar-powered powerhouse. We handle every detail, from mounting the panels to wiring and configuring your system. Typical installations take 1-3 days, depending on the system’s complexity.
How to Prepare:
Ensure our team has clear access to your roof and any electrical panels. We’ll keep our work area clean, but securing pets and clearing the driveway for our crew and equipment will speed things along.
Final Inspection and System Activation
What to Expect:
After installation, a city or county inspector will perform a final inspection. Once passed, your utility provider will activate the system and replace your electric meter with one that will credit you when you’re producing more power than you’re using. Then comes the exciting part: we’ll flip the switch and get you generating clean, renewable energy!
How to Prepare:
Our team will coordinate the inspection, so all you need to do is sit back and prepare to see your energy meter spin backward! You’ll want to have your wireless router’s user name and password handy as most of our monitoring systems need access to the internet to report system performance.
Post-Installation Support and Monitoring
What to Expect:
At True South Solar, our commitment doesn’t end once your system is up and running. We provide ongoing support, including monitoring to ensure optimal performance. Should any issues arise, our service team is just a call away.
How to Prepare:
We’ll guide you on how to monitor your system using an app, where you can track daily energy production. Plus, you’ll receive tips on maximizing your energy savings throughout the year.
Why Go Solar with True South Solar?
Choosing True South Solar means choosing a partner dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition to solar. Our local, knowledgeable team is with you every step of the way—from your initial consultation through installation and ongoing support. With us, you’re investing in more than just a solar system; you’re investing in peace of mind, knowing your energy needs are in expert hands.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you’re ready to start your solar journey, reach out to True South Solar today! Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring your transition to clean energy is simple and rewarding. And for more information, download our Top Ten Questions to Ask Your Solar Installer PDF to feel fully prepared.