What to expect when going Solar?
You’ve hired a local solar installer, and you have committed to going solar. Now what? Here’s what to expect when going solar. While you may have experience with other types of construction projects, a new solar installation may seem like uncharted territory. Not to worry, this blog offers a road map of what to expect on your journey, from creating a design to flipping the “on” switch!
Engineering and design
We will discuss a solid design plan for your solar panel placement and orientation to get things started. While this basic site plan remains open to changes, subsequent modifications tend to be minor. However, all parties review and approve the basic arrangement of solar modules and plans for connection to the electrical grid. Therefore, this stage in solar design helps set expectations about the final form the installation will take.
Construction
The design is ready, and now the fun begins—bringing your new solar panel system to life! Typically, this starts with a pre-construction meeting between your local solar installer and you or your organization’s facility staff. We discuss the details vital to a smooth construction process during this time. Additionally, this meeting will outline roles and responsibilities, contact information, site rules, and other critical information. A staging area is often designated to hold materials that have been delivered but aren’t yet ready to be incorporated into the construction.
- Rooftop installation: Generally, the quickest and easiest to construct, taking only 1 to 2 weeks. Equipment is moved to the roof using an overhead crane, variable reach forklift, or a lift mounted to the side of the building.
- Ground or field installation: This type of project generally takes three weeks to complete, with limited disruptions to your organization’s day-to-day operations. A work area for a field installation may need to be fenced off for safety if not already naturally secure. For example, being in a remote location with little public access.
Your Solar System Is Ready to Go!
Here’s what to expect when going solar! Your solar panels will start working right away to reduce your energy bill! The solar panels convert the sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity is sent to the inverter, converting the power into alternating current (AC). Then the inverter feeds this AC electricity to the building’s electrical panel, powering your electrical appliances and lights. Then, excess energy runs your meter backward! You are now billed only for the difference between what you make and what you have used. Sandbox Solar even provides a phone app for you to easily manage and track your solar power system on the go. You can monitor your consumption and production, review your history, and more!
Operation and maintenance
After your new installation is commissioned and online, you will want to ensure that it remains productive. The level of support you receive for operation and solar panel maintenance from your local solar installer is already specified in your contract. These operation and maintenance plans will go into effect to help guarantee the generation of commercial solar power benefits for years to come!
After installation, Sandbox Solar is always around for questions and continued maintenance. We are with you every step of the way through your entire solar project. We always use the highest-quality design tools and components for the best result! For information tailored to your home or business, let us connect you with a dedicated solar technician. Visit the contact page on our website to get your free quote today!
