Solar panel installation process: a step-by-step explanation

1. Is my roof suitable for solar panels?

Is your roof no longer in the best condition and not sufficiently insulated? We recommend hiring a roofer to install your solar panels. This way, you won’t run into trouble in the long run. Bearing strength and insulation are one thing, but shade, slope and direction can also have an impact. Find out how suitable your roof is for solar panels in this article.

2. Schedule a visit from a solar panel consultant

After you submit a no-obligation request for solar panels, the installer will contact you for to schedule an appointment at your home. During this home visit, Insaver Luminus’ energy consultant will obtain all necessary information to prepare a custom quote:

• Details about your property, such as the year of construction, roof type (flat, pitched), roof finish, direction, wiring, meter type, etc.
• Information on your electricity situation, such as your average consumption, electricity supplier, grid operator, etc.

During the visit, the energy consultant will discuss the different options for installation, which solar panels are suitable for your roof and will answer all your questions.

3. Get a custom solar panel quote

Following the home visit, you will receive a plan tailored to your specific situation. Based on this report, you decide whether to proceed with the installation and whether any adjustments are needed.

It includes:

• Inspection report with customer and property details
• Technical details, including the installation plan and proposed model of solar panels and converter
• Detailed calculation of installation cost
• Technical data sheets and warranty conditions

4. Have your solar panels installed

If you accept the offer, the project will first be reviewed administratively and technically. Once everything is in place, an installation date will be scheduled with the installer. In most cases, installing the system, cabling and modifying the meter box can all be done in one day. The installation process consists of two parts.

Installation of solar panels

For a sloping roof, installers place hooks under the roof tiles with rails mounted on them. This is where the panels will be placed. On flat roofs, the solar panels are installed in metal profiles at the correct pitch. The profiles are secured with ballast tiles. So, the installer ensures a favourable inclination to catch the sun’s rays properly.

Installation of converter(s)

The converter is (usually) hung on the wall in the technical room or garage. The installer will then lay cabling between the meter box, converter and panels. If no free circuit is available, which is necessary for a solar panel system, an additional circuit will be added.

How do you recognise a licensed professional?

In principle, you can install your solar panels yourself – at least, if you are an experienced handyman – but generally speaking, it is always smarter to hire a certified solar panel installer.
With Insaver (Luminus), you can be sure you are dealing with experienced installers who always guarantee a quality installation. Thanks to perfect installation and reliable after-service, you are guaranteed optimum efficiency.

5. Have your solar panels inspected

Insaver Luminus will provide you with the necessary documents and then request an inspection for you. The inspection authority will contact you to schedule an appointment. The inspection consists of three parts:

• Administrative part: The inspector checks the single-wire diagram, set-up diagram and technical characteristics of the system.
• Visual inspection: This includes inspecting the protection against overcurrent and direct contact and the connections to the metal support structure of the panels.
• Tests and measurements: The inspector measures distribution and insulation resistance.

Once your solar panel system is declared fully compliant, you receive an inspection certificate as proof.

6. Register your solar panels with the grid operator

Once you have the inspection certificate, you can officially register your system with your grid operator (Fluvius in Flanders). Insaver Luminus will once again help you to ensure a smooth application process.

7. Manage the energy production of your solar panels

From now on, you can enjoy the benefits of your own solar panels. If you opted for a Huawei or Solis converter, the system will be registered online, so you will have daily insight into your energy production.