Going solar is a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint, lower your power bills, and enjoy the satisfaction of generating clean power. According to Statista research, the solar power capacity installed across the U.S. residential sector went from roughly 625 megawatts in 2010 to over 29.3 gigawatts in 2022, and those numbers continue to grow.
But if you’re new to solar, the installation process might seem daunting. We understand it and want to provide you with this comprehensive guide that answers all your questions. Read on to learn all the specifics of solar power panel installation in Chicago.
The initial step of the solar panel installation process in Chicago is to invite a solar expert. They will lay the groundwork for the entire project. First, a solar team visits your property to evaluate its eligibility. They’ll focus on several critical areas of PV panel installation:
After the initial assessment, installers will provide you with a consultation. Here, they will give you info that you need to know about solar panels and installation, such as:
| Average energy consumption | The professional will analyze your power bills to understand your current energy usage patterns. |
| System sizing | Based on your needs, the solar expert will calculate desirable solar system parameters. |
| Financial analysis | You’ll discuss your budget, available incentives, and potential financing options for your solar panels in Chicago. |
| System сomponents | The solar professional will explain the different types of solar panels, inverters, and other components, helping you understand the options and their impact on performance and cost. |
| Permits and regulations | You’ll receive information about the permitting process and local regulations affecting your solar project. |
| Maintenance and warranties | The solar company will outline typical maintenance requirements after installing solar panels. |
By the end of the site assessment and consultation, you should clearly understand the solar cell installation potential for your particular situation.
Ready to explore the possibilities of solar power for your home? Don’t waste another second—get your free solar quote right away!
During this step, your dream of generating green energy becomes more tangible. You can see future solar module installation visualizations on an expert’s computer. Here are more details about this process:
The solar team recommends necessary reinforcements if your roof needs additional support to handle the panels. While solar power system installation can be partially covered by incentives and qualify for a tax credit, you can’t list the roof’s renovation as part of the installation. They are different processes.
It’s the most time-consuming step in obtaining solar panel systems. Reputable solar companies will handle most of the paperwork. Here’s what you can expect during this phase of the solar panel installation process in Chicago:
Beware that the permitting stage is the most lengthy part of the solar panel installation process in Chicago. Usually, it takes at least 2-3 weeks, while sometimes, you may wait for a few months until you get the needed papers.
Ready to explore the possibilities of solar power for your home? Don’t waste another second—get your free solar quote right away!
After getting all permits, you can order the equipment needed for the solar installation process in Chicago. This phase involves the solar company finalizing equipment selection and placing orders with manufacturers and distributors. They will order the next components:
Finally, it’s the day you’ve been waiting for! Usually, the solar panel installation process in Chicago takes 1-3 days. However, it varies depending on weather conditions and the system’s complexity.
A team of experienced solar installers will arrive at your property with all the necessary equipment and tools. The crew leader will introduce themself and discuss the schedule.
The team will inspect the roof to ensure it’s clear of debris. Depending on the type of roof and mounting system, installers may apply some protective measures.
Once your roof is ready, the solar team will begin the solar electricity installation. Installers will lift panels and secure the mounting hardware according to the layout.
After that, they’ll start the electrical work, installing electrical components into the system. Once the solar energy installation is done, the crew will clean up the work area.
It’s one crucial step that separates the process of solar panel installation from the electricity harness. Once the system passes the final inspection, you can finally start using it.
The Chicago Department of Buildings will schedule a final inspection to verify the precision of the installation of the solar system. The inspector will examine it for proper mounting, electrical connections, safety features, and compliance with city regulations.
You’ll also see a utility inspection from a ComEd representative to ensure the interconnection with the grid meets their safety standards.
If inspectors find an issue with the solar panel installation, they’ll report it to the solar company. Later, installers will resolve this issue and invite the inspector again. Once evaluators approve the system, you can activate it!
It’s the last step in solar panel installation in Chicago. The solar team double-checks the system again and activates it. If you choose a grid-tied or hybrid-tied system, you will use a net metering device that ComEd installed in the previous stage.
We recommend picking an advanced monitoring system that allows you to track all system parameters in detail. That way, you’ll know all the details about your solar energy generation and will be able to identify potential issues beforehand.
Transitioning to solar power may seem complex, but you can navigate the process of solar panel installation with a reputable company. The installers will design and install a system that suits your needs and budget. They will get all permits from local authorities and reputable providers. All you need to do is provide them with your wishes.
Ready to explore the possibilities of solar power for your home? Don’t waste another second—get your free solar quote right away!