Verifying Your Solar Installation: A Guide for Homeowners

Congratulations on your solar installation! To ensure your system is properly documented for certifications or energy assessments, it's important to compile a few key documents. Below is a guide to what you’ll need, what to look for in each document, and examples to make the process straightforward.

The more information and detail we have about your solar system, the better. Providing specific model numbers of your panels and inverters will allow us to research the efficiency, warranty terms, and other key factors that may affect the number of points earned in our system. If it is possible to confirm the percentage of your total electricity usage that is provided by your solar system (offset), this may also garner points.

1. Post-Installation Document, Permit, or Utility Interconnection Agreement

This document proves your solar system was installed and connected to the grid. It may come in several forms, such as:

• A completion certificate from your solar installer.
• A building or electrical permit from your local municipality.
• A Utility Interconnection Agreement outlining your grid-tied system's activation.

What to Look For:

• Installer name and contact information.
• System specifications, including size (kW) and date of completion.
• Permit or agreement number for reference.

Example Image:
(Image of a utility interconnection agreement or a solar installation permit.)

2. Screenshots from Your Monitoring App or Software

Your monitoring app tracks your system's performance and energy production. Screenshots provide real-time or historical data confirming your system is operational.

What to Look For:

• System performance data (kWh produced).
• Date and time of the recorded data.
• System identification details (e.g., inverter or system ID).

3. Photo of the Inverter Nameplate

The inverter nameplate contains critical information about the manufacturer and model number of your system's inverter.

What to Look For:

• Clear visibility of the manufacturer name (e.g., Enphase, SolarEdge).
• Model number and serial number.
• Any additional certification or compliance markings (e.g., UL or CE).

Example Image:
(Close-up photo of an inverter nameplate showing the manufacturer and model number.)

4. Document Showing When Your System Went Live

This could be a document from your installer, utility company, or monitoring app that confirms the system activation date.

What to Look For:

• The system’s activation date (e.g., "Permission to Operate" or "PTO" date).
• Corresponding system information, such as capacity (kW) or production estimates.

Example Image:
(Document with a highlighted system activation or PTO date.)

5. Recent Utility Bill

A recent utility bill helps verify the connection of your solar system to the grid and may show solar credits or net metering details.

What to Look For:

• Your name, address, and account number.
• Solar energy credits or net metering information, if applicable.
• Utility charges before and after solar system installation.

Tips for Compiling and Submitting Your Documents

• Check clarity: Ensure documents and photos are legible. Use high-quality images or scans.
• Organize files: Name your documents clearly (e.g., "Utility Bill - Nov 2024").
• Use online tools: Many apps and phones allow you to convert photos to PDFs for easy sharing.

If you have questions or need additional guidance, feel free to reach out to our support team. We’re here to help you make the most of your solar investment!