How to Go Solar: Complete Guide (2026)
Step-by-step guide to installing solar panels on your home or business
Step 1: Assess Your Energy Usage
Before going solar, understand your current energy consumption:
- Check your monthly electricity bills for the past 12 months
- Calculate average daily kWh usage (monthly kWh / 30)
- Identify peak usage months (summer AC, winter heating)
- Consider future changes (EV, heat pump, pool, addition)
Step 2: Evaluate Your Site
- Roof condition: Should have 10+ years of remaining life
- Roof orientation: South-facing is ideal (180-200°), east/west also viable
- Roof pitch: 15-40° optimal, flat roofs need racking
- Shading: Minimal shade from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings
- Available space: Need ~100 sq ft per kW of solar
Step 3: Size Your System
System Size Formula:
System kW = Monthly kWh / (Peak Sun Hours × 30 × 0.85)
Example: 900 kWh / (5 sun hours × 30 × 0.85) = 7.1 kW system
| Monthly Usage | System Size | Panel Count (450W) | Roof Space |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 kWh | 4 kW | 9 panels | 400 sq ft |
| 900 kWh | 7 kW | 16 panels | 700 sq ft |
| 1,200 kWh | 9.5 kW | 22 panels | 950 sq ft |
| 1,500 kWh | 12 kW | 27 panels | 1,200 sq ft |
| 2,000 kWh | 16 kW | 36 panels | 1,600 sq ft |
Step 4: Choose Your Equipment
Solar Panels
Choose between monocrystalline (18-21% efficiency), N-type TOPCon (21-23%), or bifacial (10-15% more on reflective surfaces). Premium brands include VSUN, Silfab, EG4, and Mission Solar.
Inverter
String inverters ($1,500-$3,000) for unshaded roofs. Microinverters ($2,500-$4,000) for complex or shaded roofs. Hybrid inverters ($2,000-$6,000) if adding batteries.
Battery Storage (Optional)
Add battery backup (5-15 kWh) for power outage protection or to maximize self-consumption. Popular options: Tesla Powerwall 2, EG4 LifePower4, Enphase IQ Battery.
Step 5: Get Quotes and Compare
- Get 3+ quotes from licensed solar installers
- Compare cost per watt ($2.50-$3.50/W is good)
- Check warranties: 25-year panel, 10-25 year inverter
- Verify contractor license and insurance
- Read reviews and ask for references
Step 6: Financing Options
| Option | Upfront Cost | Monthly Payment | Ownership | ITC Eligible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash Purchase | Full cost | $0 | You | Yes |
| Solar Loan | $0-down | $150-$300 | You | Yes |
| Lease | $0 | $100-$200 | Company | No |
| PPA | $0 | Per kWh | Company | No |
Step 7: Installation Timeline
- Site assessment (1-2 weeks): Installer evaluates roof and electrical
- System design (1-2 weeks): Custom layout and permit drawings
- Permitting (2-6 weeks): Local building department approval
- Installation (1-3 days): Panels, inverter, and electrical work
- Inspection (1-2 weeks): City/county final inspection
- Utility interconnection (2-4 weeks): PTO (Permission to Operate)
Total timeline: 6-12 weeks from contract to activation.
Step 8: Activate and Monitor
After utility PTO, your system is live. Most modern systems include smartphone monitoring apps showing real-time production, consumption, and savings. Monitor monthly to ensure optimal performance.