Frequently Asked Questions
Solar energy engineering involves designing, developing, and managing systems that harness solar power for various applications, such as electricity generation, space heating, water heating, and lighting. Engineers in this field focus on optimizing solar technologies, including photovoltaic systems and solar thermal devices, to harness renewable energy from the sun.
Solar permitting requirements vary widely by the local jurisdiction, solar system size, and project complexity. A professional engineering review for solar system permitting typically includes the following:
Solar Design Evaluation: Detailed review of the solar panel layout, mounting systems, and electrical design.
Structural Analysis: Assessment of roof or ground structure to ensure it can support the solar system.
Electrical Compliance: Verification that wiring, solar inverter selection, and safety measures comply with code requirements.
Code Compliance: Ensuring the system meets local building codes, zoning laws, and safety standards.
Site Assessment: Evaluation of site-specific factors such as shading, integration with existing infrastructure, and environmental impacts.
Many jurisdictions require licensed PE seals to obtain permits for a variety of projects, including architectural and structural drawings, mechanical and electrical plans, civil engineering designs, and environmental engineering reports. Many AHJs require engineering drawing stamps on solar plan sets to obtain permits. There are two primary types of PE stamps required for solar energy systems: an electrical engineering stamp and a structural engineering stamp.
The engineer's stamp or seal is a formal indication that the drawings comply with relevant engineering standards and codes. It signifies that the engineer takes responsibility for the accuracy and safety of the design. Solar engineering stamps provide assurance to authorities, inspectors, and stakeholders that a licensed professional engineer has reviewed and approved the solar permit design.
Engineering stamps are required for solar permitting when structural integrity, electrical design, or code compliance must be verified. Stamps from licensed professional engineers ensure that the solar installation meets local building and electrical codes, particularly for projects affecting a building's structure or involving complex electrical connections. These stamps are essential for larger commercial projects or when mandated by local jurisdictions.
The term "Authority to Interconnect" (ATI) in the solar power industry refers to the formal permission from the the electricity utility or grid operator to connect a solar PV system to the electrical grid. Interconnection is a crucial step in the process of integrating solar panels or other distributed energy resources into the existing electrical infrastructure.
Key points related to solar interconnection include:
Grid Connection Permission: The ATI is the authorization that allows a solar power system to be connected to the electrical grid. It signifies that the system meets the necessary technical and safety requirements.
Compliance with Standards: Obtaining ATI involves demonstrating that the solar installation complies with relevant industry standards, safety protocols, and interconnection guidelines.
Coordination with Utility: The process often involves coordination with the local utility company. This includes submitting necessary documentation, engineering studies, and ensuring that the solar system will operate safely and reliably within the existing grid infrastructure.
Bi-Directional Energy Flow: Interconnection allows for the bidirectional flow of electricity. Solar energy systems can feed excess electricity back into the grid, and the system can draw power from the grid when solar energy output is insufficient.
Net Metering and Billing: With an ATI in place, homeowners or businesses can often take advantage of net metering programs, where they receive credit for excess energy fed back into the grid and may be billed only for their net electricity consumption.
It's important for individuals or businesses installing solar systems to work closely with their local utility and follow the established procedures for obtaining Authority to Interconnect. The process may vary by location and utility company, and compliance with interconnection requirements ensures the safe and efficient integration of solar power into the larger electricity grid.
Jurisdictions require several key solar engineering deliverables for permitting commercial solar projects, but they vary significantly by location and the complexity and size of the system. Solar engineering requirements commonly include a comprehensive PV plan set specifying components and an electrical plan ensuring compliance with local codes.
The engineering documents must also address structural integrity, fire safety, and interconnection requirements with the existing grid. Many commercial projects require a solar engineering review and stamps by a professional engineer.
Greenlancer’s network of solar engineering companies is available in all 50 states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Texas. Join the GreenLancer platform for free to shop our solar design engineering services.
Professional engineers are regulated individually by each state in the United States by a licensing board. A license or registration obtained is applicable only within the state where it is issued. However, some engineers may hold licenses in multiple states to broaden their professional scope.
The leading solar installer certifications are through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This organization offers numerous certifications for solar system installation and sales professionals. In addition, many solar installers are licensed electricians.
The GreenLancer network encompasses thousands of experienced solar contractors and electricians with extensive experience. Many of these contractors have solar energy certifications and are licensed in the states where they operate.
Unfortunately, numerous solar PV companies have gone bankrupt in recent years, sometimes without completing the solar installation. Other companies have folded up, but the solar panels and inverters they installed are still under warranty.
Licensing requirements for solar panel installations vary by state. The Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) has a national solar licensing database with information on the requirements in each state. Most states require a licensed electrician to be involved with solar installations, and all PV systems must comply with National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements.
PTO for a solar power project refers to the official approval for a solar installation to begin operation. Before a solar power system can send electricity to the grid or serve on-site energy needs, it must go through a series of approvals and inspections to ensure compliance with safety, technical, and regulatory standards.
PTO formally acknowledges that the solar system has been installed correctly, meets all necessary building and electrical code requirements, and is considered safe and compliant. This approval is a key milestone in the development of a solar project. Depending on the jurisdiction, it may involve coordination with local utility companies, solar permitting agencies, and other regulatory bodies.
Some solar energy systems fail to receive PTO for various reasons. In some cases, the solar company didn’t complete the solar installation. In other cases, building or electrical code violations must be corrected. The GreenLancer network includes qualified solar contractors that can help a solar project obtain PTO status.
The solar interconnection process involves several steps and considerations for residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar systems. Here's an overview of what it entails for each type of solar installation:
1. Residential Solar Interconnection
Application: Submit an interconnection application to the local utility. This typically includes system design details, equipment specifications, and any required permits.
Review and Approval: The utility reviews the application to ensure it meets technical and safety standards. This may involve a preliminary assessment to verify the system’s compatibility with the existing grid.
Permitting: Obtain necessary permits from local authorities, which may include building, electrical, and zoning permits.
Installation: Once approved, the solar system is installed by a certified contractor. The installation must meet local codes and utility requirements.
Inspection: The system is inspected by local authorities or the utility to ensure compliance with safety and performance standards.
Interconnection: The utility installs a bi-directional meter to measure energy flow between the solar system and the grid. After this, the system is officially connected to the grid and can begin generating and feeding power.
2. Commercial Solar Interconnection
Application: Submit a detailed interconnection request to the utility, which often includes a comprehensive system design, engineering studies, and impact assessments.
System Impact Study: Conduct a study to assess how the commercial solar system will affect the local grid. This study may identify necessary upgrades or modifications to accommodate the system.
Solar Permitting: Obtain permits from local and state authorities, which may involve more extensive documentation compared to residential systems due to the scale and complexity.
Agreement: Negotiate and sign an interconnection agreement with the utility, outlining technical requirements, financial responsibilities, and operational procedures.
Installation: The system is installed according to the approved plans and must comply with all relevant codes and standards.
Testing and Inspection: The system undergoes testing and inspections to ensure it meets safety and performance standards.
Commissioning: After passing inspections, the system is connected to the grid, and a commercial meter is installed to measure energy production and consumption.
3. Utility Solar Interconnection
Application: Submit a detailed solar interconnection application to the utility or grid operator. This typically involves extensive documentation, including system designs, load forecasts, and environmental impact assessments.
System Impact Study: Perform a thorough impact study to evaluate the effects of the large-scale solar project on the grid. This study helps determine if any grid upgrades are needed and ensures that the project will not adversely affect grid stability.
Interconnection Agreement: Negotiate and finalize a comprehensive interconnection agreement that covers technical specifications, financial commitments, grid service agreements, and operational protocols.
Permitting and Approvals: Secure all required solar permits and approvals from local, state, and federal agencies. This process may involve environmental reviews, zoning approvals, and compliance with energy regulations.
Construction: Build the solar facility according to the approved plans and specifications. This phase may include substantial infrastructure development, such as substations and transmission lines.
Testing and Commissioning: Conduct extensive testing and commissioning procedures to ensure the system operates correctly and meets all performance and safety standards.
Integration: Connect the solar project to the grid, including the installation of advanced metering and monitoring systems to manage energy production and distribution.
Gaining solar interconnection approval typically takes anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months. The duration can vary based on several factors, including the size and complexity of the solar system, the specific requirements of the local utility, and any additional regulatory or technical challenges that may arise. For example, larger systems or those requiring significant grid upgrades, like a transformer upgrade, might experience longer approval times.
To help expedite the process, it's crucial to follow established PV interconnection guidelines and ensure that all required documentation, such as system designs, permits, and engineering reviews, is submitted accurately and promptly. Clear communication with the utility and prompt response to any additional information requests can also help prevent solar interconnection delays.
The utility company's interconnection procedures and workload can affect the approval timeline. Some utilities have an efficient interconnection process, while others may experience delays due to high demand, inefficiencies, or administrative constraints. Also, the size and complexity of the solar power system can impact the interconnection approval timeline.
Larger or more complex PV systems may require more thorough assessments and inspections. Utility companies usually need to add an electric meter or upgrade the existing one for net metering purposes, which can also delay interconnection approval.
Our team of solar interconnection specialists has extensive experience gaining authority to interconnect (ATI) approval from a variety of utility companies nationwide. We’ve worked with large investor-owned utility companies, small rural electric coops, and everything in between, including PG&E, Southern California Edison, Florida Power & Light, Georgia Power, Dominion Energy, DTE Energy, Duke Energy, Consumers Energy, Xcel Energy, and ComEd.
PTO is a document or certification issued by the relevant authorities or utility companies indicating that a solar energy system has met all the necessary requirements and is allowed to operate. Before a solar project can start generating electricity and feeding it into the power grid, it needs to go through a series of approvals and inspections to ensure compliance with safety, technical, and regulatory standards. Solar PTO is essentially a green light, stating that the solar installation is permitted and operates properly.
Solar interconnection drawings commonly include detailed diagrams and plans showing how a solar power system will be connected to the electrical grid, including both load and supply-side connections. These drawings are crucial for obtaining regulatory approvals and ensuring that the solar power system integrates seamlessly and safely with the existing electrical infrastructure.
PV interconnection diagrams serve as a blueprint for contractors, solar technicians, inspectors, and utility companies involved in the solar interconnection process.
Key elements of an interconnection diagram may include:
Electrical Schematics
Single-Line Diagrams
Solar Equipment Layout
Connection Point Details
Safety Features
Technical Specifications
PG&E (Pacific Gas and Electric Company) is a utility company that provides natural gas and electric services in Northern and Central California. PG&E has an interconnection application process for residential and commercial solar system owners looking to connect to the PG&E electrical grid. Obtaining interconnection permission involves submitting an application with diagrams and agreeing to an interconnection agreement.
PV plan sets outline the design and specifications of a solar energy system. They features site plans, electrical diagrams, structural assessments, and equipment specifications. The design must adhere to local building codes and regulations to ensure safety and compliance. Solar plan sets must demonstrate code and zoning compliance and facilitate the approval of solar installations by local authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs).
In most cases, you need a solar permit for a grid-tied solar energy installation to ensure safety and code compliance. However, solar permit regulations vary by location, but obtaining one is a common requirement to ensure that the solar system complies with electrical and building codes, and zoning requirements. This entails submitting solar permit drawings and other technical information.
Solar permitting requires gaining official approval for a residential or commercial solar energy system installation and utility interconnection. Some contractors use a solar design company to complete PV plan sets with engineering stamps when needed. Streamlining the solar permitting process helps contractors expand their business capabilities while cutting overhead costs.
The solar permitting process involves several essential steps to ensure that a photovoltaic (PV) system adheres to local regulations and safety standards. While the specific steps may vary depending on the location, the typical process generally includes:
Permit Application: This step involves submitting a detailed application along with solar permit plans, which include PV system diagrams, site layouts, and electrical schematics. These plans provide a comprehensive overview of the proposed installation.
Solar Permit Design Review and Approval: The application and plans are reviewed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), which checks for compliance with local codes and regulations. This review ensures that the system meets all necessary safety and construction standards.
Utility Interconnection Approval: Before the installation can begin, you must obtain approval from the utility company for connecting the PV system to the local electrical grid. This step ensures that the system will be properly integrated and can safely integrate with the utility grid.
AHJ Grants PV Permit: Once the permit application is reviewed and approved, the AHJ grants the official PV permit, allowing the solar installation to proceed. This permit confirms that all preliminary requirements have been met.
Solar Permit Inspection: After installation, the local permitting office conducts an inspection to verify that the system has been installed according to the approved plans and complies with all safety and regulatory requirements.
Final Approval or Permission to Operate (PTO): Following a successful inspection, the final approval or PTO is granted. This allows the system to be officially turned on and begin generating electricity.
SolarAPP+ (Solar Automated Permit Processing Plus) is a tool developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to streamline the solar permitting process. It contains an online platform and a set of standardized solar design specifications.
If the solar system meets the requirements, applicants can receive instant approval, dramatically reducing the time it takes to obtain a solar permit approval. However, only certain AHJs are using SolarAPP+ at this time.
Typically, you need a solar engineering stamp for PV permits when the local building department or relevant AHJ requires a licensed professional engineer to review and approve the solar plan sets. This often depends on the size and complexity of the solar installation, and specific regulations and codes in your area.
Professional engineer (PE) stamps for solar energy systems involve an electrical, civil, or structural engineer reviewing solar plan designs and providing their “seal of approval.” Check with your local permitting office to determine if solar engineering wet stamps are needed.
The GreenLancer solar permit services include solar engineering design services, and engineering stamps when required for solar permit plans.
This assessment explores if installing a solar energy system in a particular location is practical and financially viable. It examines factors including available sunlight, site conditions, solar PV system costs, and potential energy bill savings. A solar feasibility report helps decision-makers understand if a solar project is viable before implementing it.
The GreenLancer team estimates solar savings by considering the system's installed capacity, local solar irradiance, and electricity rates. The formula typically involves evaluating the annual energy production estimates of the solar panels using historical weather data and multiplying it by the cost per unit of electricity. This calculates the potential savings compared to purchasing grid power from the electricity company.
The average payback period for a home solar system is between 6 and 10 years if the homeowner qualifies for the federal solar tax credit and can take advantage of net metering programs. The solar payback period depends on factors like the PV system cost, the local climate, electricity prices, and available PV incentives and solar rebates. These are all critical variables when creating a solar feasibility report.
Solar panel mounting system
Rooftop solar systems usually have a lower upfront cost than ground-mounted solar projects. They commonly have lower labor and racking expenses because the roof provides a mounting structure for the solar panels.
Battery energy storage
Adding solar batteries usually extends the payback period of the PV system but provides additional benefits, such as electricity during power outages. Customers who pay time-of-use rates with the utility company and qualify for net metering programs can feed power back to the electricity grid during peak energy demand, saving more money on energy bills.
Some states offer solar rebates for installing batteries, which can significantly reduce the payback period of the energy storage system. Some states with the best solar battery incentive programs are California, Oregon, Hawaii, and Massachusetts, but these programs are subject to change.
The payback period for a commercial solar system varies, but it's generally around 5 to 8 years. Factors influencing the length include the solar project cost, local sunlight conditions, utility power rates, and available solar energy incentives. These are critical considerations for a GreenLancer solar feasibility study.
Commercial solar energy system costs
The PV project cost varies depending on numerous factors, such as the solar project capacity, solar panels and equipment quality, mounting system, labor expenses, and solar permitting and interconnection costs. Also, having a three-phase electrical supply allows for a more powerful three-phase solar inverter.
The solar project site has a big impact on the cost of the system and subsequent maintenance. For example, if it is a ground-mounted solar array, there may be mowing expenses to prevent shading. Likewise, many projects will require a transformer upgrade, which the customer might be responsible for paying.
However, many commercial projects involve solar power purchase agreements (PPAs), with third-party ownership. Solar PPAs usually don’t require an upfront investment, but it is critical to secure solar project financing.
Solar resource
Solar energy systems generate more electricity in an unshaded location, with an ideal orientation, in a sunny climate. A critical aspect of a solar feasibility analysis is determining the available solar resources. This is instrumental in generating solar array output estimates.
Utility power rates
Determining the electricity rate is critical for creating a solar feasibility report. Some businesses have demand charges, which may correlate with peak sun hours. If so, the solar array may help offset demand charges, leading to a greater reduction in operating expenses.
Commercial Solar Energy Incentives
Most businesses can take advantage of the solar investment tax credit (ITC) and bonus depreciation if they purchase the solar system and don’t enter into a PPA. Also, some utility or state solar incentives and government grants are available in some cases that can further reduce the total cost of the solar project. Solar system owners in states with Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) markets can also generate income. However, SREC values can vary significantly by state and over time.
GreenLancer is an online project management platform that provides solar, EV charging, and telecom design, permitting, and engineering solutions.
GreenLancer is a business-to-business solution. It is intended for solar installers, EV charging station installers, roofers, homebuilders, home improvement contractors, financiers, and PV equipment distributors in need of design and solar permit services.
Currently, there are two separate login portals for solar and EVCS services, and it is necessary to create an account on each site to use both.
First, you need to create a free account on the GreenLancer solar platform. Then, you can log into your account and start creating projects and shopping for GreenLancer design and solar engineering services at www.app.greenlancer.com. Enter your username and password to get started.
Once we’ve collected all the required PV project information, you can expect your completed solar plan set in 1-2 business days. However, some more complex commercial solar projects may have a longer turnaround time.
If this happens, simply upload the red-lined permit design and other comments from the plan reviewer into the Discussion Tab of the service that was originally ordered. These revisions are typically completed free of charge.
We recommend that you become familiar with the local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ’s) that you are working with. However, our professional network is familiar with the most popular AHJs. The first step of any Permit Design where an AHJ is not familiar to us is an “In-depth AHJ Study,” during which we reach out to the jurisdiction to acquire any information we can collect over the phone.
No, PE Stamps, both electrical and structural, are sold as a separate service. AHJs don’t always require PE stamps for solar permits, so it’s offered as a separate service when it’s needed by our customers.
The best location for an energy storage battery in Michigan is in a garage or outside, and the GreenLancer team can help find the best place to install it. Proper placement helps ensure optimal performance and longevity of your battery so you have reliable backup solar power for many years.
First, you need to create a free account on the GreenLancer solar platform. Then, you can log into your account and start creating projects and shopping for GreenLancer design and solar engineering services at www.ev.greenlancer.com/login. Enter your username and password to get started.
Once we’ve collected all the required EV charging station project information, you can expect your completed EVCS plan set in 14 business days.
Yes, PE Stamps, both electrical and structural, are included in our Permit Design Service. AHJs commonly require PE stamps for multi-family residential and commercial EV charging station permits. Therefore, electrical and structural engineering stamps are included in the Permit Design Service.
Click the “Forgot Password” button or reach out to Sales@GreenLancer.com to recover a lost GreenLancer password.
The Account Information is a series of fixed details that don’t change from project to project (i.e., contractor license number, office address, etc.). These details are shared with the EVC or solar energy professional for each EVCS or solar project design.
Schedule an appointment with your Account Manager or call (866) 436-1440 and select option 1 to speak to a representative who will assist you in making changes.
First, log into your GreenLancer account. Then, click the Account Profile link in the upper right corner of the customer dashboard. You will then see the Users tab, where you can access adding/changing/removing user functions.
We offer bulk pricing discounts to qualifying clients. Please contact your GreenLancer account manager or call (866) 436-1440, Option 1 for details.
GreenLancer offers solar energy and EVCS design and engineering services in all 50 states and all U.S. territories. This is particularly important with clean energy engineering services because engineers must be licensed in the state(s) where they operate. For example, if you are working on a solar or EVCS project in Las Vegas, the engineer must be licensed in Nevada.
In your account, you can set up your preferred credit or debit card. When checking out your completed service, you will be able to select from the payment options you set up.
You will receive an email notification with a link to download your completed design and engineering deliverables.
Simply send a message to the professional design firm via the GreenLancer platform. Leave a message and upload files, and your message will be sent directly to the clean energy design professional. You will receive an email confirmation once the revisions have been made. Additional charges may apply for system design changes and as-builts.