As we noted above, the process of getting a solar energy system designed, permitted, installed, and approved for activation is, well, a process. It involves a lot of paperwork, a deep knowledge of electrical engineering, an affinity for precision, and familiarity with the engineering that goes into roofing loads—as well as the ability to navigate a potentially sloped roof without falling off. It’s not for the inexperienced or faint of heart.

Those reasons are enough to forgo doing it yourself and get professional assistance. And it’s hard to overstate this: working with a reputable, qualified solar installer is critical to getting the best possible system—and enjoying the best possible installation experience. Plus, if issues ever arise, having a warranty from a reputable company protects you in the future.

In short, pretty much everything we noted above that’s part of the process. A good installer will consult with you and do an energy assessment to design a custom system that fits your home and needs and then present you with a custom proposal. That should include determining the best way to pay for your system.

Once you sign off on the proposal, your installer will handle permitting, permissions, installation, and inspections. Once you get PTO approved, they’ll turn on your system and get you onboarded and oriented to using it so you're confident about how to operate it and get the most savings and production out of it.  (Note: Some installers will outsource some of these steps to specialized third-party drafting firms or subcontractors.)

Above all, if you have any questions or concerns along the way, your installer should address them quickly and directly. Going solar is a big investment, and a good installer will ensure you’re comfortable with your decision and happy with your system. They’ll also be there whenever you need support or want to expand or upgrade your system. 

Like any good contractor, a quality installer will be trustworthy, transparent, and thorough. If they give you a schedule, they’ll keep to it. If they give you a proposal, they’ll stick to it. Their work should be impeccable, and their safety record spotless.

So, check their certifications, customer reviews, and BBB rating. Ask neighbors or friends in your area. Maybe even ask the installer if they have customers you can call to talk about their work and working with them. If they hesitate, that might be a red flag.

You could also work with an Enphase installer because, simply put, only the top local installers become part of the Enphase Installer Network (EIN). We train and certify them to install the latest Enphase products and hold them to the highest standards of system quality, safety, and customer service. 

Our installers are trained and certified to work with Enphase products and deliver the highest customer service and system quality. They're also local to your area. That means they understand not only how to assess your energy needs but also how to work within local and utility requirements. They'll also know how to use local and state incentives or credits.

Plus, after your system is approved and activated, your Enphase installer will show you how it works, how to monitor it, and how to optimize its output to maximize your cost savings.

Enphase installers can also provide maintenance and support to ensure your system delivers optimal energy generation for decades. Plus, your system will be backed by industry-leading Enphase warranties.

Meet some of the Enphase installers

Our installers fall into three tiers: Platinum, Gold, and Silver. Explore the Enphase Installer Network (EIN) to learn more.

Find a local Enphase installer  

Find an Enphase Installer Network company near you.