The process of installing solar varies by business to business, but using Lightforce Solar as a guideline, you could expect something similar to the following;
Once you’ve had your new system designed and your installation is booked in, the actual installation itself is pretty straightforward. We know it’s an exciting day for every solar homeowner when the team arrive to install your system so here’s an overview of how it works for an average installation.
Firstly, we apply for Distributed Generation (DG) approval from your lines company and once we get that approved we can book in your install on your home.
When the install day arrives, on-site, your installer will start by prepping your roof and making sure the tiles or shingles are properly attached and there’s no debris in the way. Next, the team put in electrical wiring that will connect your electrical panel and general power system.
Once the electrical wiring is complete, they will install racking on your roof to support your panels -this is usually the only piece of equipment that is actually attached to your roof. When the racking is level and safely attached, the solar panels are secured onto the racking.
The last step is the inverter(s) which are connected to the panels to convert direct current (DC) energy into the alternating current (AC) energy used to power your home. The technicians who do your installation will make sure you are educated and comfortable using the system before finishing their job. If you have any questions later our Lightforce support staff are happy to help you.
How long does a solar installation take?
A residential installation usually takes our installers 1 – 2 days, but we might need longer if your system’s bigger or more complicated. Once the installation is done, we then get an independent electrical inspector to sign off your system and make sure it meets regulations. We’ll book this in for you, so you don’t have to do anything.
Grid-connected solar systems must comply with New Zealand electrical regulations, including AS/NZS 3000, the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules. Solar panels must meet AS/NZS 5033 standards. The inverter of the Solar system must meet AS 4777.1 installation standards and adhere to AS 4777.2.
The electrician who installs the solar system will produce a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) and then a electrical inspector will check the system has been correctly installed, and will then produce a Record of Inspection (Roi). The inspection does not always take place on the day, and the system cannot be operated till the ROI is complete.
Once the ROI is complete, your electricity meter will need to be changed to an import/export meter – so that you can take advantage of the credits your solar system will be generating for you. This is done with your electricity provider.
If you are building a brand new home, there are some additional steps to be taken that you should ask your solar consultant or sales person to explain.
