How long does the solar system design process take?

Our standard solar system design turnaround is 5-7 business days for most residential projects. This timeline includes custom system sizing based on your energy usage, optimized panel layout for your roof, complete electrical diagrams, and detailed production estimates. Complex installations with unique requirements such as multiple roof planes, significant shading issues, or commercial properties may take 7-10 days to ensure accuracy. We also offer expedited service with 2-3 day turnaround for an additional fee if you're working under tight deadlines. The design process begins immediately upon receiving your completed questionnaire and necessary documentation. You'll receive email updates at key milestones, and we're always available to answer questions during the design phase.

What information do you need to design my solar system?

To create an accurate and optimized solar design, we need several key pieces of information. First, your recent electricity bills for the last 12 months help us understand your energy consumption patterns and size the system appropriately. Second, we need your property address and roof dimensions, which we can often obtain from satellite imagery, though measurements are helpful. Third, clear photos of your roof from multiple angles and your main electrical panel are essential. Fourth, we need your utility company name to ensure compliance with their interconnection requirements. Finally, information about any shade concerns, trees, nearby buildings, or other obstacles helps us optimize panel placement. We provide a detailed questionnaire that guides you through all required information step-by-step, making it easy to gather everything we need. Most customers can complete the questionnaire in 15-20 minutes.

Can you design for metal roofs or tile roofs?

Yes, we design solar systems for all roof types including asphalt shingle, metal (standing seam and corrugated), tile (clay and concrete), flat/membrane, and even ground mount systems. Each roof type requires specific mounting hardware and installation techniques, which we account for in our designs. Metal roofs, particularly standing seam, are actually excellent for solar because they're durable and allow for clamp-based mounting that doesn't penetrate the roof surface. Tile roofs require special tile hooks and careful planning to maintain the roof's integrity and waterproofing. Our designs include detailed specifications for the appropriate mounting system for your specific roof type, and we can recommend trusted suppliers for specialty hardware. We also consider factors like roof age, condition, and expected lifespan to ensure your solar system will have a solid foundation for its 25+ year lifespan.

Do your designs include battery storage systems?

Absolutely! We design systems with or without battery storage depending on your needs and goals. Our battery-integrated designs include proper sizing calculations based on your backup power requirements, whether you want whole-home backup or just essential loads. We work with all major battery brands including Tesla Powerwall, LG Chem, Enphase IQ Battery, and others, and can recommend the best option for your specific situation. The design includes complete electrical schematics showing battery integration, backup load panels if needed, and configuration settings for optimal performance. We also provide detailed cost-benefit analysis comparing grid-tied vs. battery backup systems, including considerations for time-of-use rates, backup power needs, and solar self-consumption. Battery systems add complexity but offer significant benefits in areas with unreliable grids or high electricity rates, and our designs ensure safe, code-compliant integration.

Will my solar design be optimized for my local climate and weather?

Yes, every design is customized for your specific location's climate, weather patterns, and solar resource. We use industry-leading software (PVWatts, Helioscope, or Aurora Solar) that incorporates actual weather data, sun angles, and shading analysis for your exact location. This means we account for your area's typical cloud cover, seasonal variations, snow loads, and wind requirements. The system production estimates reflect real-world conditions, not theoretical maximum output. We also design for local code requirements including wind speed ratings, snow load capacity, and seismic considerations where applicable. For example, systems in Florida are designed for hurricane-force winds, while systems in Minnesota account for heavy snow loads. The panel tilt and orientation are optimized for your latitude to maximize year-round production. This localized approach ensures your system will perform as expected and meet all local building codes and safety requirements.

Do I need a licensed engineer to stamp my solar permit?

Requirements vary by jurisdiction, but most cities and counties require a Professional Engineer (PE) stamp for solar installations. Residential systems over 10kW almost always require PE stamps, as do commercial installations of any size. Even for smaller systems where stamps aren't strictly required, having a PE-stamped design significantly increases permit approval chances and demonstrates professionalism to your local building department. Our engineers are licensed in all 50 states and can provide PE stamps wherever required. The PE stamp confirms that a licensed engineer has reviewed the structural calculations, electrical design, and overall system safety. This is particularly important for older homes, unusual roof structures, or areas with specific wind or snow load requirements. Some jurisdictions also require separate structural letters or wet stamps (original signature stamps mailed physically). We handle all of these requirements and can provide whatever documentation your specific jurisdiction needs for smooth permit approval.

How long does it take to get a solar permit approved?

Permit approval timelines vary widely by jurisdiction, typically ranging from 1-6 weeks for most areas. Urban areas with dedicated solar permitting staff may approve permits in 5-10 business days, while smaller rural jurisdictions that review permits less frequently might take 4-6 weeks. The approval timeline also depends on the complexity of your system and the completeness of your application. Simple residential rooftop systems on newer homes generally receive faster approval than complex ground mount systems or installations on older buildings requiring structural analysis. We provide complete, professional permit packages that include all required documentation, which significantly reduces the chance of rejection or requests for additional information that can delay approval. Some jurisdictions offer expedited review for additional fees. Once you know your specific jurisdiction, we can often provide a realistic timeline estimate based on our experience with that building department. We're also available to respond to any plan review comments to keep your permit moving forward.

What's included in your permit package service?

Our comprehensive permit packages include everything most jurisdictions require for solar permit approval. This includes PE-stamped site plans showing panel layout and dimensions, complete electrical diagrams (single-line and three-line as needed), structural calculations for roof load analysis, equipment specifications and cut sheets for all major components, and completed permit application forms for your jurisdiction. We also include utility interconnection application documents, fire setback calculations and access pathways per local fire codes, and energy production estimates. The package is professionally organized with a cover sheet, table of contents, and clearly labeled sections for easy review by building department staff. We research your specific jurisdiction's requirements and ensure all their particular needs are addressed. Some jurisdictions have unique requirements like seismic calculations, wind load analysis, or specific form formats, which we handle. The goal is to provide a submit-ready package that you can take directly to your building department with confidence, minimizing the risk of rejections or requests for additional information.

Can you help with utility interconnection applications?

Yes, we provide complete utility interconnection application support as part of our permit package service. Each utility company has specific requirements and forms for connecting solar systems to the grid, and we're familiar with most major utilities across the country. We'll complete all required interconnection forms, provide the technical system specifications utilities need, and include all necessary certifications and equipment documentation. The interconnection application typically requires details about your system size, inverter specifications, panel information, and electrical configuration. Some utilities require additional studies or equipment (like external disconnect switches or rapid shutdown systems), which we'll identify and include in the application. We can also coordinate with your utility if they have questions during their review process. Be aware that utility approval timelines are separate from building permit timelines and can sometimes take longer. Getting both processes started simultaneously saves time. We'll provide guidance on submission procedures and timelines specific to your utility company.

What if my permit gets rejected or needs revisions?

Permit rejections or revision requests are relatively common, and we're here to help you navigate them. When you receive plan review comments from your building department, simply forward them to us and we'll analyze what's needed. Most revision requests are straightforward - perhaps they need additional calculations, different documentation format, or clarification on specific details. We'll make the necessary revisions to the design and permit documents, usually within 2-3 business days, and provide updated files for resubmission. One round of revisions based on building department comments is included with our permit package service. If the revisions require significant redesign work or multiple resubmissions, additional fees may apply, but we'll always discuss this with you first. We can also communicate directly with your building department if needed to clarify requirements or answer technical questions. Our experience with thousands of permits means we understand what building departments are looking for and can usually address their concerns quickly. The key is not to get discouraged - permit revisions are normal and we'll work with you until approval is achieved.

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Professional designs, permit packages, and support—without the installer markup

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5,000+ Systems Designed

98% Approval Rate

5-7 Day Turnaround

Licensed PE - 50 States

Professional Engineers

NABCEP Certified

Industry Gold Standard

5,000+ Systems

Designed & Approved

98% Approval Rate

First-Time Success

Google 4.9★

1,000+ Reviews

BBB A+ Rated

Accredited Business

Everything You Need to Go Solar on Your Terms

From professional system design to permit-ready plansets and equipment sourcing—we give you the expertise of big solar companies without the big price tag. Pick exactly what you need, install on your schedule, and save thousands.

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Consulting

📐

Get Maximum Solar Production at Minimum Cost

Professional PE-stamped designs that maximize your ROI and pass permitting first try

Skip the $15K+ installation markup. Our licensed Professional Engineers design complete solar systems that give you the same quality as big solar companies, but at a fraction of the cost. Every design is optimized for maximum energy production and fastest payback period.

What's Included

✓Energy usage analysis and system sizing

✓Optimal panel placement and array configuration

✓Detailed production estimates (monthly/annual kWh)

✓ROI analysis and payback calculations

✓Equipment selection and specifications

✓String sizing and electrical calculations

✓Shade analysis and mitigation strategies

✓Inverter selection (string, micro, or optimizer)

✓Battery integration (if requested)

✓Detailed equipment list (bill of materials)

✓Installation layout drawings

✓Performance modeling (PVWatts or similar)

✓Utility interconnection requirements overview

Deliverables

▸Site plan with panel layout
▸Single-line electrical diagram
▸Equipment specifications and datasheets
▸Production and financial analysis report
▸Installation guidelines
▸Digital files (PDF, CAD if needed)

Turnaround Time

Standard: 5-7 business days
Complex projects: 7-10 business days
Expedited service: 2-3 business days (additional fee)

Ideal For

• DIY homeowners starting their solar project
• Professional sizing and equipment selection needs
• Anyone wanting optimized system design
• Projects requiring production guarantees

Starting at $1,499

Simple residential systems • 5-7 day turnaround

View detailed pricing →

📋

Get Permit-Ready Plans in 5 Days

PE-stamped plansets that pass permitting on the first try (98% approval rate)

Stop wasting weeks waiting for permits. Our engineered solar designs pass permitting on the first try, saving you weeks of delays and expensive revision fees. Get professional PE stamps for any jurisdiction in all 50 states without the professional markup.

What's Included

✓AHJ-specific permit documentation

✓Professional engineering stamp (PE seal)

✓Complete electrical diagrams to NEC code

✓Structural analysis and load calculations

✓Attachment and mounting details

✓Roof plan with dimensions

✓Equipment specifications and cut sheets

✓Three-line electrical diagram

✓Interconnection details

✓Site plan and property survey integration

✓Code compliance verification

✓Fire setback calculations (where required)

✓Rapid shutdown design (NEC 690.12)

✓Grounding and bonding details

Deliverables

▸Complete permit-ready planset (PDF)
▸Stamped engineering drawings
▸Structural calculations (when required)
▸Equipment cut sheets and specifications
▸Code compliance documentation
▸Wet-stamped copies (if required by AHJ)

Turnaround Time

Standard: Included with design (5-7 days)
Stand-alone permitting: 3-5 business days
Expedited: 1-2 business days (additional fee)

Revision Policy

• Free revisions for AHJ-requested changes
• 98% first-time approval rate
• We work with you until permit approved

Ideal For

• Any jurisdiction requiring PE stamp
• Commercial projects
• Complex residential installations
• Areas with strict permitting requirements
• Projects requiring structural calculations

Included with Professional Design ($2,299)

98% first-time permit approval rate

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Equipment Sourcing

Tier-1 equipment at competitive prices

Leverage our industry relationships to purchase high-quality solar equipment at competitive prices. We source from trusted tier-1 manufacturers and help you avoid overpriced retail or questionable online sellers.

What's Included

✓Equipment recommendations based on your design

✓Competitive pricing from distributors

✓Tier-1 manufacturer equipment only

✓Complete bill of materials (BOM)

✓Equipment compatibility verification

✓Warranty registration assistance

✓Shipping coordination

✓Alternative options if primary choice unavailable

✓Updated pricing (equipment costs fluctuate)

✓Technical specifications and datasheets

Equipment Categories

Solar Panels

REC, Q.PEAK, Jinko, Canadian Solar, Longi

Inverters

SolarEdge, Enphase, SMA, Fronius, APsystems

Mounting Systems

IronRidge, Unirac, Quick Mount, S-5!

Battery Storage

Tesla Powerwall, Enphase, LG, Generac

Balance of System

Wire, conduit, disconnects, breakers

Pricing

• 15-30% savings vs. retail pricing
• Transparent pricing (no hidden markups)
• Price matching on equivalent equipment
• Bulk order discounts when applicable

Turnaround Time

Quote: 1-2 business days
Order fulfillment: Depends on manufacturer/distributor (typically 1-3 weeks)

Ideal For

• Anyone purchasing equipment for DIY installation
• Those wanting verified tier-1 equipment
• Clients seeking the best price-to-quality ratio
• Projects requiring specific manufacturer warranties

Included with Premium + Support ($3,499)

15-30% savings vs. retail on equipment

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Technical Consulting

Expert guidance when you need it

Get professional answers to your solar questions. Whether you're troubleshooting installation issues, need code clarification, or want a second opinion on design decisions, our engineers are here to help.

What's Included

✓System design review and optimization

✓Installation guidance and best practices

✓Troubleshooting support

✓Code compliance verification

✓Utility interconnection assistance

✓Equipment selection advice

✓Performance analysis and optimization

✓Inverter programming guidance

✓Battery integration consulting

✓Shade mitigation strategies

✓String sizing verification

✓Safety and grounding review

Consulting Formats

📧

Email Support

24-48 hour response time

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Phone Consultations

Scheduled appointments

💻

Video Calls

For visual troubleshooting

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Document Review

Review and markup service

Common Topics

"Is my system design optimal?"

"How do I size my strings correctly?"

"What's the best inverter for my situation?"

"Should I add battery storage?"

"How do I handle this shading issue?"

"Is this installation method code-compliant?"

"Why is my system underperforming?"

Turnaround Time

Email responses: 24-48 hours
Scheduled consultations: Within 1 week
Urgent issues: Same or next business day

Ideal For

• DIY installers with specific technical questions
• Professional review of existing designs
• Troubleshooting installation or performance issues
• Anyone needing expert second opinion

$95/hour | Included in Premium + Support package

3 hours of phone support included with Premium

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Compare Our Service Packages

Feature	Design Only	Design + Permitting	Full Package
System Design	✓	✓	✓
Production Estimates	✓	✓	✓
Equipment Selection	✓	✓	✓
ROI Analysis	✓	✓	✓
PE Stamp	-	✓	✓
Permit Planset	-	✓	✓
Structural Calcs	-	✓	✓
Equipment Sourcing	-	-	✓
Installation Support	-	-	✓
Price	$1,499	$2,299	$3,499

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How Our Services Work Together

From initial consultation to ongoing support, here's how we guide you through your solar journey

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Consultation

Day 1

Discuss needs, site conditions, and project goals

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Design

Days 2-7

Create custom system design optimized for your property

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Permitting

Days 5-10

Prepare permit package with PE stamp (if included)

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Equipment

Days 7-14

Source and order equipment at competitive prices (if included)

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Support

Ongoing

Installation guidance and troubleshooting support

Additional Services Available

Expedited Turnaround

2-3 days

+$200

Battery Storage Integration

Included in timeline

+$300

Commercial Projects

Custom timeline

Custom pricing

Structural Engineering

When required

$400-$600

Site Survey Coordination

3-5 days

$300-$500

Utility Interconnection Support

As needed

+$150

Installation Verification

Before inspection

+$200

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Services

Get answers to common questions about solar design, permitting, equipment sourcing, and installation support.

View All FAQs →

Ready to Get Started?

Choose the services you need or request a custom package

View Pricing Packages Request Design Quote Schedule Consultation

✓98% approval rate

✓Licensed PE

✓5-7 day turnaround

Save $15K+ With ExpertDIY Solar Guidance

Everything You Need to Go Solar on Your Terms

System Design

Permitting

Equipment

Consulting

Get Maximum Solar Production at Minimum Cost

What's Included

Deliverables

Turnaround Time

Ideal For

Get Permit-Ready Plans in 5 Days

What's Included

Deliverables

Turnaround Time

Revision Policy

Ideal For

Equipment Sourcing

What's Included

Equipment Categories

Solar Panels

Inverters

Mounting Systems

Battery Storage

Balance of System

Pricing

Turnaround Time

Ideal For

Technical Consulting

What's Included

Consulting Formats

Email Support

Phone Consultations

Video Calls

Document Review

Common Topics

Turnaround Time

Ideal For

Compare Our Service Packages

How Our Services Work Together

Consultation

Design

Permitting

Equipment

Support

Additional Services Available

Expedited Turnaround

Battery Storage Integration

Commercial Projects

Structural Engineering

Site Survey Coordination

Utility Interconnection Support

Installation Verification

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Services

Ready to Get Started?

Save $15K+ With Expert
DIY Solar Guidance