How Solar Installation Works
A general overview of the steps involved — your specific provider’s process may vary in order or detail.
1. Site assessment
A provider evaluates your roof (orientation, shading, condition, structural capacity) and your electrical panel, either remotely or with an in-person visit.
2. System design and proposal
Based on your usage, roof, and your utility’s export credit rate, the provider proposes a system size, equipment, and pricing. Get a specific written breakdown, not just a percentage-savings claim.
3. Financing decision
You choose cash, loan, or lease/PPA (see Solar Financing Options).
4. Permitting
The installer typically handles pulling required local building and electrical permits — ask who’s responsible and how long it usually takes in your area.
5. Installation
Physical installation of panels, inverter, and any battery storage. Timeline varies by system size and installer schedule.
6. Inspection and utility interconnection
A local inspector signs off, and your utility has to approve interconnection and enroll your system in its EDG (or NIPSCO feed-in tariff) program before credits start — see Indiana Net Metering & EDG.
7. System activation
Once interconnection is approved, the system is switched on and begins offsetting your electricity usage.
Timelines vary by provider, permitting office workload, and utility processing times — ask any provider for their typical timeline in your specific area.
See What Solar Costs at Your Address
Figures on this page are general. The only way to know what solar costs on your roof in Indiana is a quote based on your address, your roof and your actual power use.
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