The Solar Install Process: From Estimate to PTO
What actually happens between signing your proposal and switching your system on. Real timelines, paperwork, and what we handle for you.
Step 1 · Free estimate (Day 1–3)
Your project starts with a no-pressure conversation. Either book a free estimate online or call (661) 410-6919. We’ll ask about your goals (lower bills, backup power, EV future) and schedule the next step within 24–48 hours.
What to bring / share:
- Your last 12 months of utility bills (or online account login).
- A photo of your main electrical panel.
- Notes on future loads — EV, heat pump, pool — so we can size correctly.
Step 2 · Site survey & system design (Week 1–2)
A licensed technician visits your home (typically 60–90 minutes) to measure your roof, inspect the electrical panel, and document shading patterns. We then build a custom 3D design with:
- Optimal panel layout and tilt for your roof.
- Battery sizing matched to your bill profile.
- Production estimate and post-PTO bill projection.
- All-in price, financing options, and incentive netting.
Step 3 · Permits & HOA approval (Week 2–4)
Once you sign your proposal, we handle every piece of paperwork:
- Building permit with your city or county.
- Electrical permit for the interconnection.
- HOA submission (when applicable).
- Utility interconnection application with PG&E or SCE.
Most California jurisdictions issue residential solar permits within 7–14 business days. SolarAPP+ enabled cities can be same-day.
Step 4 · Installation day (1–3 days)
Installation is faster than most homeowners expect.
- Day 1: roof-mount rails and conduit runs.
- Day 2: panels, inverter, battery (if included), and electrical tie-in.
- Day 3 (only if needed): battery commissioning or roof complications.
Your power will be off for approximately 2–4 hours while we tie into the main panel. You’ll receive a system commissioning walkthrough and access to your monitoring app at the end of install day.
Step 5 · Inspection & PTO (Week 5–8)
Two final approvals:
- City/county inspection (typically scheduled within 1–3 weeks of install).
- Utility PTO — Permission To Operate from PG&E or SCE. This is the green light to actually push energy to the grid. Typically 2–4 weeks after city inspection.
Until PTO, your system stays off. We track these milestones for you and email weekly updates.
Step 6 · Monitoring & first true-up (Year 1)
Once PTO is granted, your system goes live and your monitoring app starts logging production. We check in:
- Day 1 after PTO — system commissioning verification.
- Day 30 — first month performance check.
- Month 11 — pre-true-up review with utility statement.
- Annually — performance report and tune-up if needed.
Total timeline at a glance
| Phase | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Estimate & site survey | 1–2 weeks |
| Design & proposal | 3–7 days |
| Permits & HOA | 1–3 weeks |
| Installation | 1–3 days |
| City inspection | 1–3 weeks |
| Utility PTO | 2–4 weeks |
| Total: contract → live | 4–8 weeks typical |
Ready to start?
Most projects begin with a 15-minute conversation. Bring your last utility bill and we'll show you exactly what's possible for your home — design, pricing, payback, and timeline.
Related: incentives stack, financing options, and battery storage guide.
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