Solar panels have become a beacon of hope in the quest for renewable energy.
They offer the ability to lower energy costs and reduce carbon emissions, making them an attractive addition to any home.
But before deciding on a plan, many homeowners want to know if the installation process can be a DIY project.
The answer depends on a number of factors.
So, we’ve put together the steps that are involved so that you can make the best solar panel installation decision that works for your home (and budget).
To ensure a smooth and efficient installation, follow these six proven steps:
Step 1. Design
With the designing of a home solar system, homeowners are encouraged to get involved.
The size of your home should be balanced by the size of your system, depending on what your solar energy goals are.
For example, do you plan to completely replace your grid energy with a solar system? Do you need a reliable source of back up power? Do you have the square footage required for roof installation, or are you interested in sending excess energy back into the grid?
All of these questions help determine what type of design you’ll need to integrate.
Step 2. Racking and Mounting Solar Panels
After you have a complete plan of the system you are intending to install, the next step involves building the foundational structure for your solar panels.
This is also outlined in the design and planning stages.
Performing this step is not impossible for an average do-it-yourself homeowner, however, there are risks.
Step 3. Panel Installation
Depending on the size of the panels you’re using and their specific mounting requirements, placing the panels can be tricky.
During the panel installation, the panels are wired together, creating the circuit type outlined in the planning phase, and also connected to an inverter.
Once the full system is in place, the grid connection can be made.
Step 4. Installing Inverter and Storage Options
Energy storage is a key consideration for any home solar energy system.
Back up batteries allow you to maintain energy use, even during times when the sun isn’t shining, and it provides you with an independent source.
Step 5 and Step 6: Final Steps
Although most of the wiring can be carried out during the panel installation process, it’s a good idea to double check all connections once the full system is in place.
Inspections are performed by local officials, and can typically be scheduled a few days in advance, depending on your state and county.
Why Install Solar Panels?
Installing solar panels can be a transformative step for both residential and commercial properties.
This renewable energy source not only reduces electricity bills but also contributes to a greener planet.
In fact, solar energy has been growing rapidly, with PV capacity increasing by 54% as of 2024.3 The cost of residential solar PV has dropped by approximately 64% over the past decade, making it an increasingly affordable option for many.4
Homeowners with solar energy systems with 2-kW typically save over $100 annually depending on location,5 and the average energy payback period for a residential solar system in the U.S. is about 1 to 4 years.6
However, the process of installing solar panels involves several important steps and considerations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
Many people can do the bulk of the work themselves and save money on the overall cost of a solar residential system, but if there is any doubt, always seek the assistance of a professional installer.
Acting now also opens the door to potential incentives and rebates that can help with the initial investment.
Embracing solar energy not only enhances your financial and ecological well-being but also contributes to the broader adoption of renewable energy.
References
1DIY Solar Panel Installation: Step by Step Guide. (2020). GoGreenSolar.com. Retrieved August 14, 2024, from <https://www.gogreensolar.com/pages/diy-solar-installation-guide>
2Wimmer, Jessica. (2024, July 24). How to Install Solar Panels (2024 Guide). Architectural Digest. Retrieved August 14, 2024, from <https://www.architecturaldigest.com/reviews/solar/how-to-install-solar-panels>
3U.S Department of energy. (2024, May 14). Quarterly Solar Industry Update. Energy.gov. Retrieved August 16, 2024, from <https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/quarterly-solar-industry-update>
4National Renewable Energy Laboratory. (2021, February 10). Documenting a Decade of Cost Declines for PV Systems. NREL. Retrieved August 16, 2024, from <https://www.nrel.gov/news/program/2021/documenting-a-decade-of-cost-declines-for-pv-systems.html>
5U.S Department of Energy. (2013, September 30). The Value and Cost of Solar Electricity. NREL. Retrieved August 16, 2024, from <https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy08osti/42733.pdf>
6U.S. Department of Energy. ( 2013, September 5). What is the energy payback for PV? NREL. Retrieved August 16, 2024, from <https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy04osti/35489.pdf>