With solar installations reaching record highs in 2025 and homeowners saving thousands on electricity bills, the question “is my house good for solar?” has never been more relevant. Over 4.2 million American homes now have solar panels, yet many homeowners remain uncertain about their property’s solar potential.
This comprehensive guide provides you with a complete assessment framework to determine if your house is suitable for solar panels. You’ll learn how to evaluate your roof, analyze sun exposure, calculate potential savings, and use free tools to make an informed decision about going solar.
Quick Solar Suitability Assessment Tool
Before diving into detailed analysis, use this quick checklist to get an immediate sense of your home’s solar potential:
Immediate Solar Screening Checklist
- Roof Age: Is your roof less than 10 years old or in excellent condition?
- Roof Space: Do you have at least 200 square feet of unobstructed roof area?
- Sun Exposure: Does your roof receive direct sunlight for 6+ hours daily?
- Roof Direction: Does your roof face south, southeast, or southwest?
- Shading: Are there minimal trees or buildings blocking your roof?
- Monthly Electric Bill: Is your average monthly bill over $75?
- Ownership: Do you own your home?
Scoring: If you answered “yes” to 5-7 questions, your house shows excellent solar potential. 3-4 “yes” answers indicate good potential with some considerations. Fewer than 3 “yes” answers suggest solar may not be ideal for your situation.
When to Proceed vs. Reconsider
Proceed with confidence if: Your roof is south-facing, gets full sun, and you have high electricity bills. These homes typically see 15-25% annual returns on solar investment.
Proceed with caution if: Your roof faces east/west, has partial shading, or you have moderate electricity usage. Professional assessment recommended.
Reconsider if: Your roof needs replacement soon, faces north, has significant shading, or your electricity bills are very low.
Roof Analysis: The Foundation of Solar Success
Your roof is the foundation of any successful solar installation. A thorough roof analysis covers five critical factors that determine both feasibility and system performance.
Roof Condition and Age Requirements
Solar panels last 25-30 years, so your roof must be in excellent condition to support this long-term investment. Here’s what to evaluate:
- Age Guidelines: Roofs over 10 years old should be professionally inspected before solar installation
- Structural Integrity: Look for sagging, missing shingles, or water damage
- Load Capacity: Solar panels add 2-4 pounds per square foot; ensure your roof can handle the additional weight
- Replacement Timeline: If your roof needs replacement within 5-7 years, do it before installing solar
Pro Tip: Combining roof replacement with solar installation can save 15-20% on total project costs through shared labor and permitting. For detailed guidance on preparing your home for solar panel installation, including roof preparation steps, check out our comprehensive preparation guide.
Material Compatibility Analysis
Different roofing materials affect installation complexity and costs:
- Asphalt Shingles (Best): Easiest and most cost-effective installation, compatible with all mounting systems
- Metal Roofs (Excellent): Ideal for solar with 50+ year lifespan, often require specialized clamps instead of penetrations
- Tile Roofs (Good): Compatible but require careful handling; clay tiles may need replacement during installation
- Flat Roofs (Good): Allow optimal panel positioning but may require ballasted mounting systems
- Wood Shingles (Challenging): Possible but require additional structural considerations and fire safety measures
- Slate (Difficult): Beautiful but fragile; installation requires specialized expertise and higher costs
Size Calculations and Space Requirements
Calculating adequate roof space is crucial for determining system size and energy production potential:
- Basic Rule: Each kilowatt of solar capacity requires approximately 80-100 square feet of roof space
- Panel Dimensions: Standard residential panels measure roughly 3.5 x 5.5 feet (19.25 sq ft each)
- Spacing Requirements: Allow for 3-foot setbacks from roof edges and 18-inch pathways as required by fire codes
- Obstruction Planning: Account for chimneys, vents, skylights, and other roof penetrations
Example Calculation: A typical 6kW system needs 480-600 square feet of usable roof space and produces 8,000-10,000 kWh annually in most U.S. locations.
Orientation and Tilt Optimization
Roof orientation and tilt angle significantly impact solar energy production:
- Ideal Orientation: True south produces maximum annual energy (100% efficiency)
- Southeast/Southwest: 90-95% of south-facing efficiency, still excellent for solar
- East/West: 75-85% efficiency, viable with proper system design
- North-facing: Generally not recommended in northern climates (less than 70% efficiency)
Optimal Tilt Angles by Region:
- Southern states (25°-30° latitude): 25-30° tilt
- Mid-latitude states (35°-40°): 30-35° tilt
- Northern states (40°-45°): 35-40° tilt
Structural Integrity Assessment
Before installation, ensure your roof structure can safely support solar panels:
- Professional Inspection: Have a structural engineer evaluate older homes or those with known issues
- Rafter Spacing: Standard 16″ or 24″ spacing works best for solar mounting
- Decking Condition: Plywood or OSB decking should be solid and free from rot or damage
- Snow Load Considerations: Northern climates require additional structural analysis for combined snow and panel weight
Sun Exposure and Shading Analysis
Adequate sun exposure is fundamental to solar success. Even partial shading can dramatically reduce system performance, making this analysis critical for determining solar viability.
Peak Sun Hours by Region
Peak sun hours represent the daily average of solar irradiance measured at 1,000 watts per square meter. Understanding your region’s solar resource helps set realistic expectations:
- Southwest (Arizona, Nevada, Southern California): 6-7 peak sun hours daily
- Southeast (Florida, Georgia, South Carolina): 5-6 peak sun hours daily
- Mountain West (Colorado, Utah, New Mexico): 5.5-6.5 peak sun hours daily
- Midwest (Illinois, Ohio, Missouri): 4-5 peak sun hours daily
- Northeast (New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts): 3.5-4.5 peak sun hours daily
- Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon): 3-4 peak sun hours daily
Minimum Viability: Locations with 3.5+ peak sun hours can support economically viable solar installations with proper system design.
Identifying and Measuring Shade Obstacles
Shading analysis requires both current assessment and future planning:
Common Shading Sources:
- Mature trees on your property or neighboring lots
- Nearby buildings, especially multi-story structures
- Roof features like chimneys, dormers, or HVAC equipment
- Utility poles and power lines
- Geographic features like hills or mountains
Shade Impact Guidelines:
- No Shade: 100% energy production potential
- Light Shade (1-2 hours daily): 85-95% production, usually acceptable
- Moderate Shade (2-4 hours daily): 70-85% production, requires careful system design
- Heavy Shade (4+ hours daily): Below 70% production, often not economically viable
DIY Shade Assessment: Observe your roof throughout the day, noting shaded areas at 9 AM, noon, and 3 PM. Take photos to document shade patterns and measure the duration of shading on potential panel locations.
Seasonal Variation Considerations
Shade patterns change dramatically with seasons due to sun angle variations and deciduous tree foliage:
- Winter Considerations: Sun is lower in the sky, creating longer shadows from nearby obstacles
- Summer Patterns: Higher sun angle reduces shadow length but may introduce new shade from leafed trees
- Deciduous Trees: Provide seasonal shading that may actually benefit summer cooling while allowing winter sun exposure
- Evergreen Impact: Year-round shading that requires careful evaluation for solar viability
Microclimate Factors
Local environmental conditions can significantly impact solar performance:
- Coastal Areas: Marine layer and fog can reduce morning sun exposure
- Mountain Regions: Higher altitude increases solar irradiance but terrain may create shade
- Urban Heat Islands: Higher temperatures can slightly reduce panel efficiency
- Air Quality: Dust, pollution, and particulates can reduce solar irradiance
- Weather Patterns: Frequent overcast skies or storms impact annual production
Energy Usage and System Sizing
Properly sizing your solar system requires understanding your energy consumption patterns and future needs. This analysis ensures you install the right system size for maximum financial benefit.
Analyzing Your Electricity Bills
Your utility bills contain crucial information for solar system design:
Key Data Points to Collect:
- Monthly kWh Usage: Gather 12 months of data to account for seasonal variations
- Peak Usage Months: Identify summer/winter peaks that drive system sizing
- Rate Structure: Note if you’re on tiered, time-of-use, or flat-rate billing
- Average Monthly Cost: Calculate total annual electricity expenses
- Demand Charges: Commercial customers should note peak demand fees
Usage Pattern Analysis:
- Consistent Users: Stable monthly usage (±20%) makes sizing straightforward
- Seasonal Variation: High summer AC or winter heating loads require careful analysis
- Growing Usage: New EVs, pools, or home additions increase future energy needs
Calculating Required System Size
Use this step-by-step process to determine your optimal system size:
Step 1: Annual Energy Consumption
Add up 12 months of kWh usage. Example: 12,000 kWh annually
Step 2: Daily Average
Divide annual usage by 365. Example: 12,000 ÷ 365 = 32.9 kWh daily
Step 3: System Size Calculation
Divide daily usage by peak sun hours in your area. Example: 32.9 ÷ 5 peak sun hours = 6.6 kW system needed
Step 4: Account for System Losses
Multiply by 1.2 to account for inverter losses, wiring, and shading. Example: 6.6 × 1.2 = 7.9 kW recommended system size
Efficiency Improvements vs. Larger Systems
Before installing solar, consider energy efficiency improvements that can reduce required system size:
High-Impact Efficiency Measures:
- LED Lighting: Reduce lighting energy by 75-80%
- HVAC Upgrades: High-efficiency heat pumps can cut heating/cooling costs by 30-50%
- Insulation and Air Sealing: Reduce overall energy needs by 15-30%
- Energy Star Appliances: Modern refrigerators, washers, and dryers use 40-60% less energy
- Smart Thermostats: Optimize heating/cooling schedules for 10-15% savings
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Energy efficiency improvements typically cost $1-3 per kWh saved annually, while solar costs $3-4 per kWh of production capacity. Efficiency first, then solar.
Future Energy Needs Planning
Consider upcoming changes that might increase your electricity usage:
- Electric Vehicle: Add 3,000-4,000 kWh annually per EV
- Pool Installation: Increase usage by 2,000-3,000 kWh annually
- Home Additions: Each 1,000 sq ft typically adds 4,000-6,000 kWh annually
- Heat Pump Installation: May increase or decrease usage depending on replaced system
- Home Office: Additional equipment and climate control needs
Financial Viability Assessment
Understanding the financial aspects of solar installation is crucial for making an informed decision. This analysis helps determine if solar makes economic sense for your specific situation.
Local Electricity Rates Impact
Your local electricity rates directly impact solar savings potential:
Rate Structure Types:
- Flat Rate: Same price per kWh regardless of usage or time (simplest for solar analysis)
- Tiered Rates: Higher rates for increased usage (solar helps avoid expensive upper tiers)
- Time-of-Use (TOU): Different rates by time of day (solar production may not align with peak rates)
- Demand Charges: Fees based on peak power usage (solar plus storage can help reduce these)
Solar Viability by Rate Level:
- Above $0.15/kWh: Excellent solar economics in most regions
- $0.10-0.15/kWh: Good solar potential, especially with federal tax credits
- Below $0.10/kWh: Marginal economics, requires careful analysis
Installation Costs by Region (2025 Data)
Solar installation costs vary significantly by region due to labor rates, permitting requirements, and market competition. For detailed regional pricing information, see our comprehensive guide on solar panel costs.
Average Cost per Watt (Before Incentives):
- California: $2.50-2.90/watt
- Northeast (NY, MA, CT): $2.80-3.20/watt
- Texas: $2.60-3.00/watt
- Florida: $2.70-3.10/watt
- Arizona: $2.50-2.90/watt
- Midwest: $2.80-3.20/watt
- Mountain West: $2.70-3.10/watt
System Size Cost Examples (Before Incentives):
- 6 kW System: $15,000-19,200
- 8 kW System: $20,000-25,600
- 10 kW System: $25,000-32,000
Payback Period Calculations
Calculate your solar payback period using this comprehensive method:
Simple Payback Formula:
Payback Period = Net System Cost ÷ Annual Electricity Savings
Detailed Example Calculation:
- System Size: 8 kW
- Total Cost: $22,000
- Federal Tax Credit (30%): -$6,600
- State Rebate: -$2,000
- Net Cost: $13,400
- Annual Production: 12,000 kWh
- Electricity Rate: $0.13/kWh
- Annual Savings: $1,560
- Simple Payback: 8.6 years
Factors Affecting Payback:
- System Performance: Better sun exposure reduces payback time
- Electricity Rate Increases: 2-3% annual increases improve solar economics
- Net Metering: Full retail credit for excess production improves payback
- Financing: Cash purchase has shortest payback; loans extend payback but may still provide immediate savings
To explore various solar financing options that can help make solar more affordable, including loans, leases, and power purchase agreements, visit our comprehensive financing guide.
Net Metering Policies
Net metering policies significantly impact solar economics:
Full Retail Net Metering (Best):
- Receive full retail rate credit for excess solar production
- Available in many states, though approximately one-third are moving away from traditional net metering
- Provides best economic returns for solar
Reduced Rate Net Metering:
- Excess production credited at wholesale or reduced rates
- Still viable but reduces overall savings
- Encourages battery storage to maximize self-consumption
No Net Metering:
- No credit for excess production
- Requires careful system sizing to avoid overproduction
- Battery storage becomes more attractive
Available Incentives and Rebates
Federal Incentives (2025):
- Investment Tax Credit (ITC): 30% of system cost through 2032, then stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034
- Eligibility: Applies to owned systems, not leases
- Requirements: Must have sufficient tax liability to claim credit
- Note: There is uncertainty about potential changes to the tax credit in 2025 due to proposed legislative modifications. For the latest updates on potential changes, see our federal solar tax credit updates.
State and Local Incentives:
- Cash Rebates: Direct payments reducing upfront costs
- Performance Payments: Ongoing payments based on energy production
- Property Tax Exemptions: Solar doesn’t increase property tax assessment
- Sales Tax Exemptions: No sales tax on solar equipment
- Utility Rebates: Additional incentives from local utilities
Free Assessment Tools and Calculators
Several free online tools can help you evaluate your home’s solar potential. Here’s a detailed guide to the most reliable and comprehensive options available in 2025.
Google Project Sunroof Detailed Walkthrough
Google Project Sunroof uses satellite imagery and machine learning to analyze your roof’s solar potential:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Access the Tool: Visit sunroof.withgoogle.com
- Enter Your Address: Type your complete address or click on your home on the map
- Review Roof Analysis: Google analyzes roof shape, tilt, orientation, and shading
- Customize Your Analysis: Input your monthly electricity bill to personalize savings estimates
- Explore Financing Options: Compare purchase, loan, and lease scenarios
- Connect with Installers: Get quotes from pre-screened local solar companies
Key Features:
- 3D roof modeling using satellite and aerial imagery
- Shade analysis from trees and nearby buildings
- Personalized solar panel layout recommendations
- Financial analysis with local electricity rates
- Coverage for most U.S. locations
Limitations:
- Imagery may be outdated in rapidly changing areas
- Cannot account for roof condition or structural issues
- May not detect all shading sources accurately
NREL PVWatts Calculator Guide
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts calculator provides detailed technical analysis:
How to Use PVWatts:
- Visit pvwatts.nrel.gov
- Enter Location: Input your address or select from the map
- Confirm Weather Data: Verify the nearest weather station is appropriate
- Input System Details:
- DC System Size (kW)
- Module Type (Standard, Premium, Thin Film)
- Array Type (Fixed, 1-Axis, 2-Axis tracking)
- System Losses (typically 14-18%)
- Tilt Angle (roof slope in degrees)
- Azimuth (direction roof faces, 180° = south)
- Review Results: Annual and monthly energy production estimates
Advanced Features:
- Hourly production data for detailed analysis
- Multiple system configuration comparisons
- Integration with other NREL tools
- Weather data from over 2,000 locations
Best For: Technical users who want detailed performance modeling and have specific system parameters.
EnergySage Comparison Tool
EnergySage provides a comprehensive marketplace for solar quotes and analysis:
Platform Features:
- Solar Calculator: Estimate system size and savings
- Installer Network: Pre-screened, certified installers
- Quote Comparison: Side-by-side analysis of multiple proposals
- Educational Resources: Comprehensive guides and articles
- Customer Reviews: Verified installer ratings and feedback
Assessment Process:
- Enter your address and basic property information
- Provide electricity usage data (upload bill or enter manually)
- Receive personalized solar estimate
- Get matched with local installers
- Compare detailed quotes and financing options
Advantages:
- Combines assessment with installer matching
- Transparent pricing and installer ratings
- No obligation to purchase
- Educational support throughout the process
Sun Number/Sun Score Interpretation
Sun Number (formerly available through Zillow) provides a simple 0-100 score for solar suitability:
Score Interpretation:
- 80-100: Excellent solar potential, strong financial returns expected
- 70-79: Very good potential, solar likely financially beneficial
- 60-69: Good potential, solar viable with proper system design
- 50-59: Moderate potential, careful analysis required
- Below 50: Limited potential, may not be economically viable
Factors in Sun Score:
- Building Score (80 points max): Roof orientation, tilt, size, shading
- Regional Climate (8 points max): Local solar resource availability
- Electric Rates (8 points max): Local electricity costs
- Solar Costs (4 points max): Regional installation costs
Note: While Sun Number is no longer widely available, similar scoring systems are used by various solar assessment tools.
Common Disqualifying Factors
While most homes can benefit from solar, certain factors may make installation impractical or uneconomical. Understanding these limitations helps set realistic expectations.
HOA Restrictions and Workarounds
Homeowners’ associations can present challenges, but solar rights laws provide protection in most states:
Solar Rights Laws (Available in 42 States):
- Prohibit HOAs from banning solar installations
- Allow “reasonable restrictions” on placement and appearance
- Require HOAs to approve installations that meet guidelines
- Provide legal recourse for denied applications
Common HOA Restrictions:
- Panels must not be visible from street or common areas
- Specific mounting methods or hardware required
- Color matching requirements for panels and equipment
- Landscaping requirements to screen ground-mounted systems
Workaround Strategies:
- Back Roof Installation: Place panels on rear-facing roof sections
- Low-Profile Mounting: Use sleek, integrated mounting systems
- Color-Matched Panels: Select panels that blend with roof color
- Professional Presentation: Work with experienced installers familiar with HOA requirements
Historic District Limitations
Historic districts often have strict architectural guidelines that can complicate solar installation:
Common Restrictions:
- Prohibition of visible panels on street-facing roofs
- Requirements for period-appropriate appearance
- Lengthy approval processes through historic commissions
- Limited mounting options to preserve architectural integrity
Potential Solutions:
- Rear Installation: Focus on non-visible roof areas
- Solar Shingles: Building-integrated photovoltaics that mimic traditional roofing
- Ground-Mount Systems: Install in rear yards if permitted
- Community Solar: Participate in off-site solar programs
Extreme Weather Considerations
Certain climate conditions can impact solar viability and system design:
High Wind Areas (Hurricane/Tornado Zones):
- Require enhanced mounting systems rated for local wind speeds
- May need special permits and engineering reviews
- Consider insurance implications and coverage
- Ballasted systems may not be suitable
Heavy Snow Regions:
- Need steeper tilt angles for snow shedding
- Require structural analysis for combined snow and panel loads
- May benefit from snow guards or heating elements
- Consider seasonal production variations
Extreme Heat Areas:
- Panel efficiency decreases in high temperatures
- Require adequate ventilation behind panels
- May benefit from light-colored or specialized panels
- Consider cooling system impacts on electrical usage
Hail-Prone Regions:
- Select panels with appropriate impact ratings
- Consider insurance coverage for weather damage
- May benefit from protective screens or covers
Grid Connection Issues
Some properties face challenges connecting solar systems to the electrical grid:
Utility Interconnection Limits:
- Some utilities cap total solar capacity in service areas
- Older grid infrastructure may require upgrades
- Remote locations may have limited grid capacity
- Three-phase service requirements for larger systems
Electrical Panel Issues:
- Older panels may need upgrades for solar integration
- Insufficient space for required solar disconnects and meters
- Electrical service size limitations
- Code compliance requirements for panel upgrades
Property Access Challenges:
- Landlocked properties with utility easement issues
- Steep terrain making installation dangerous or impossible
- Limited access for equipment and maintenance
- Shared electrical services in multi-unit buildings
Professional Assessment vs. DIY Evaluation
While online tools provide valuable insights, understanding when to seek professional consultation ensures you make the best decision for your specific situation.
When to Get Professional Consultation
Mandatory Professional Assessment Situations:
- Structural Concerns: Roofs over 20 years old, previous damage, or unusual construction
- Complex Roof Geometry: Multiple levels, dormers, or irregular shapes
- Significant Shading: Partial shade that requires detailed analysis
- Electrical Upgrades: Panel upgrades or service changes needed
- Historic Properties: Special permitting or design requirements
- Commercial Applications: Three-phase power, demand charges, or large systems
Beneficial Professional Assessment Situations:
- Borderline economics requiring detailed financial analysis
- Multiple roof orientations needing optimization
- Battery storage considerations
- Future expansion planning
- HOA or permitting challenges
What to Expect from Solar Assessments
Comprehensive Site Evaluation:
- Roof Inspection: Condition, structure, materials, and measurements
- Shading Analysis: Current and projected shade patterns
- Electrical Assessment: Panel capacity, wiring routes, and upgrade needs
- Energy Usage Review: Bill analysis and consumption patterns
- System Design: Optimal panel layout and equipment selection
Detailed Proposal Components:
- System specifications and equipment details
- Energy production estimates
- Financial analysis with multiple scenarios
- Timeline and installation process
- Warranty and maintenance information
- Permitting and interconnection handling
For expert professional solar installation services with over 20 years of experience and more than 13,000 successful installations, consider working with certified professionals who can provide comprehensive assessments and quality installations.
Professional Credentials to Look For:
- NABCEP Certification: North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners
- State Licensing: Electrical contractor and/or solar installer licenses
- Insurance Coverage: General liability and workers’ compensation
- Local Experience: Familiarity with local codes and utilities
- Industry Memberships: Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) or state associations
Red Flags in Solar Sales Pitches
Avoid Companies That:
- Use High-Pressure Tactics: “Today only” pricing or immediate signature requirements
- Go Door-to-Door: Reputable companies typically don’t use door-to-door sales
- Require Full Payment Upfront: Legitimate installers use milestone-based payment schedules
- Promise Unrealistic Savings: Claims of “free” solar or eliminating all electricity bills
- Lack Proper Licensing: Cannot provide license numbers or insurance certificates
- Offer Prices Too Good to Be True: Significantly below market rates often indicate poor quality
Warning Signs in Proposals:
- Vague system specifications or equipment details
- No site visit or engineering assessment
- Unrealistic production estimates
- Pressure to sign before reviewing with family or advisors
- Requests for personal financial information before proposal
Best Practices for Solar Shopping:
- Get at least three quotes from different installers
- Verify all licenses, insurance, and certifications
- Read customer reviews and check Better Business Bureau ratings
- Ask for local references and examples of completed work
- Understand all contract terms before signing
- Verify warranty coverage and company stability
Next Steps and Action Plan
After completing your solar assessment, use this decision framework to move forward confidently with your solar journey.
Decision Framework Summary
Green Light Indicators (Proceed with Confidence):
- South-facing roof with minimal shading
- Monthly electricity bills over $100
- Roof in good condition, less than 10 years old
- Live in area with good solar incentives
- Plan to stay in home for 10+ years
- Simple payback period under 10 years
Yellow Light Indicators (Proceed with Caution):
- East/west-facing roof or partial shading
- Moderate electricity bills ($75-100/month)
- Roof needs minor repairs or is 10-15 years old
- Complex roof geometry or HOA restrictions
- Payback period 10-15 years
Red Light Indicators (Reconsider or Explore Alternatives):
- North-facing roof or heavy shading
- Low electricity bills (under $75/month)
- Roof needs major repairs or replacement soon
- Significant HOA or historic district restrictions
- Payback period over 15 years
- Plan to move within 5 years
Getting Quotes and Comparing Installers
Quote Request Process:
- Initial Screening: Contact 3-5 installers for preliminary quotes
- Site Visits: Schedule on-site assessments with top 3 candidates
- Detailed Proposals: Request comprehensive proposals with system specifications
- Reference Checks: Contact recent customers and verify work quality
- Final Selection: Choose based on value, not just lowest price
Key Comparison Factors:
- System Performance: kWh production estimates and equipment quality
- Total Investment: All costs including permits, installation, and interconnection
- Financing Options: Cash, loan, lease, and PPA comparisons
- Warranty Coverage: Equipment, installation, and performance guarantees
- Company Stability: Years in business, financial strength, and local presence
Timeline Expectations
Typical Solar Installation Timeline:
- Assessment and Contracting: 2-4 weeks
- Permit Approval: 2-8 weeks (varies by jurisdiction)
- Equipment Procurement: 1-4 weeks
- Installation: 1-3 days for typical residential systems
- Inspection and Interconnection: 1-4 weeks
- Total Timeline: 2-4 months from contract to system activation
Factors That Can Extend Timeline:
- Complex permitting requirements
- Utility interconnection delays
- Equipment availability issues
- Weather-related installation delays
- Electrical panel upgrades needed
Steps You Can Take to Expedite:
- Gather all required documentation early
- Be responsive to installer requests
- Schedule inspections promptly
- Clear installation area of obstacles
- Maintain communication with installer and utility
Determining if your house is good for solar requires careful evaluation of multiple factors, from roof condition and sun exposure to financial considerations and local regulations. By using the assessment framework and tools outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision about whether solar is right for your home.
Remember that solar technology and economics continue to improve, making more homes viable candidates each year. Even if your home isn’t ideal for solar today, changes in technology, incentives, or your energy needs might make it attractive in the future.
If your assessment indicates good solar potential, the next step is getting professional quotes from certified installers. Take your time, compare options carefully, and choose an installer who provides transparent information and quality service. With proper planning and the right system, solar can provide decades of clean energy and significant savings for your home.