The best time of the year for solar panel installation depends on several factors, such as climate, availability of installers, and financial incentives.
What to Consider
Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors which can impact the initial return on investment on your solar panel system.
Solar Panel Installer Availability & Permits
Often, one overlooked factor is installer availability. Many people think about solar in the summer and usually begin the process then. This is our busiest time of year with longer wait times, and sometimes, higher installation costs.
Another part of the solar process is getting proper permits. Every project requires local town permits. During the summer, the influx of customers slows down this procedure.
If you’re able to plan ahead and schedule your installation during the off-season, you may be able to save money and secure an earlier installation date.
Learn more about our solar installation process here.
Weather Stability
In general, the best time to install solar panels is during the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the weather is stable. This helps our solar installers get the job done faster.
In the spring, sunlight hours increase and generate the same amount of solar power that you will use for the day. Therefore, there will be an equal balance of energy used and produced. This means you won’t be billed for using more power than you have generated.
In the fall, temperatures begin to cool, making it easier to work on the roof. The days are still long enough to provide ample sunlight exposure, and the cooler temperatures help to boost the panel’s performance.
Installing solar panels during the winter months can be challenging due to snow and ice buildup on roofs. However, our crews do work year-round.
Financial Incentives
Tax credits and rebates may also impact the best time for solar panel installation. Some financial incentives are time-sensitive and may expire at the end of the year, so it’s important to research and understand the current incentives available in your area before deciding on a specific installation date. Financing your solar system may seem complicated, so we created a guide to explain the process to you.
Schedule Your Solar Panel Installation
The best time of the year for solar panel installation depends on installer availability, weather, and financial incentives. Solar panels immediately offset your electric bill and will give you a steady return on investment no matter when you choose to install them.
Ultimately, the best time for solar panel installation will depend on your individual circumstances and needs. Factors like your location, climate, and available incentives should all be considered when deciding on the best time for installation. At Solar by CIR, we’ll help determine the best time for your specific situation.
Are you ready to schedule your solar panel installation? Schedule a call with Colin or get an instant solar estimate.