Step 1: Check whether your home is a good fit
- Roof: South-, west-, or east-facing sections with little shade work best. If your roof needs replacing within ~10 years, do that first.
- Usage: Pull 12 months of electric bills to see your annual kWh use.
- Utility rules: Look up your utility's net metering or export-credit policy. It strongly affects savings.
Step 2: Get energy-efficient first
Sealing air leaks, adding insulation, and switching to LED lighting shrinks the system you need, and the cost.
Step 3: Get at least three quotes
Compare quotes on:
- System size (kW) and estimated annual production (kWh)
- Price per watt (total cost ÷ system watts)
- Panel and inverter brands and their warranties
- Workmanship warranty from the installer
- Production estimates and the assumptions behind them
Step 4: Choose how to pay
| Option | You own it? | Upfront cost | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash purchase | Yes | High | Highest long-term savings; eligible for owner incentives |
| Solar loan | Yes | Low/none | Compare APR and dealer fees, not just the monthly payment |
| Lease | No | Low/none | Fixed monthly payment; can complicate selling your home |
| Power purchase agreement (PPA) | No | Low/none | Pay per kWh produced; watch for annual price escalators |
Step 5: Understand incentives
Federal, state, and utility incentives change often. Check the current rules with a tax professional and your state energy office, and be wary of any quote that leans heavily on incentives you haven't verified.
Step 6: Permits, install, and interconnection
- Site survey and final design
- Permits and utility application (often the longest wait)
- Installation, usually one to three days
- Inspection by your city or county
- Permission to operate (PTO) from your utility. Don't turn the system on before this.
Step 7: After it's on
Use the monitoring app to make sure production matches the estimate. Rinse off heavy dust or pollen if your area gets little rain, and keep all warranty paperwork with your home records.
This guide is general, educational information, not professional advice. Rules, prices, and incentives vary by location and change over time. Confirm details with a licensed professional.