June 27, 2025

As solar panels become a more common sight on rooftops and in gardens around Ireland, many homeowners are beginning to ask: How are solar panels installed? If I sign up today, what are the next steps? And, what is the waiting time?

There’s often a misconception that installing solar panels means weeks of disruption – with broken or missing roof tiles, electrical wires hanging from ceilings, dust and debris littering homes and gardens, and tradespeople coming and going for days, if not weeks on end.

In reality, the process for installing solar is far more simple, clean and efficient than people expect.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the key steps in the installation of a typical home solar PV system, from the initial consultation right through to system activation.

1. Initial Consultation and Site Assessment

The solar journey typically begins with an in-person consultation. At this stage, you will be asked about your energy usage, budget and goals for your solar system.

Your home will undergo a site assessment, in which your roof’s orientation, shading, structural condition and available space will be evaluated. Your home’s existing electrical system will also be assessed to ensure it is compatible.

Following this, a tailored system design and personalised quote will be prepared, outlining panel layout, estimated electricity production, and expected savings.

Learn more about what goes into a solar quote and how much a solar system in Ireland costs in this article.

2. Planning and Preparation

Before the installation begins, administrative and logistical tasks are completed by your solar installer. These may include:

• Grid connection paperwork: In most cases, your chosen solar installer will handle this on your behalf.

• Planning permission: Generally, this is not a requirement for home solar systems in Ireland, however exceptions may apply to housing developments near aviation sites and protected buildings (source: Gov.ie). If you require planning permission, your solar installer will advise and organise this on your behalf.

• System ordering: Solar panels, mounting equipment, inverters, optimisers, and other components are ordered by your installer to ensure they have the correct equipment, in the correct quantities ahead of your scheduled install date.

Your solar installer should give you a clear outline of what to expect on the day, including any areas of your home they may need to access.

3. The Installation Day: What to Expect

For a residential system, the installation process usually takes one day, however this may vary depending on system size and the complexity of the installation. The process generally has three stages:

The inverter is typically installed in a garage or utility room. If battery storage is included in your system, this will be connected at this stage too. Finally, the inverter will be linked to your home’s electricity supply and is connected to the internet so that you can track your electricity generation.

Commissioning the System

After everything is wired and secured, the system is commissioned, this means it’s powered on, tested, and verified to be working correctly.

Installers will carry out safety checks, ensure the system is properly grounded, and confirm that everything complies with regulations. The installers will also connect your system to a monitoring app and they should give you a full overview of your new solar system and how it works.

What Happens After Installation?

Once your solar system has been commissioned, it will begin generating electricity. The installer should provide a walkthrough or handover which provides you with detailed information about your solar system, how to monitor and maintain it.

You will also receive documentation about your system components, warranties, and maintenance guidance. In some cases, your solar installer may submit grant paperwork or finalise grid notifications on your behalf.

How Long Does It Take?

For most homes, solar PV systems can be installed in one day, with occasional jobs requiring two. Factors that might affect duration include:

• Roof access and pitch

• Number of panels and size of system

• Battery or EV charger installation

• Weather conditions on the day

While the process may sound technical, it is typically well-organised and minimally disruptive to daily life.

What Can Make Installation More Complex?

Most home solar installations are completed in a day, but some factors can add time or complexity. Experienced installers are well equipped to handle complex installations. Still, it’s useful to know what might come up.

• Roof Access and Pitch: Steep or hard-to-reach roofs may require scaffolding or safety measures such as harness systems, which can slow things down. However, a full risk assessment should be completed by your solar installer prior to install day, and they should be prepared for everything that is to come.

• System Size and Layout: Larger systems or those spread across different roof sections may take longer to install and wire.

• Weather Conditions: Heavy rain or strong winds can delay roof work for safety reasons.

Common Questions Homeowners Ask Before Installation

Final Thoughts

The idea of having solar panels installed may seem daunting at first, but the reality is far more straightforward. A typical installation involves one day of coordinated work by skilled professionals, with minimal impact on your home and routine.

Understanding the process in advance not only removes uncertainty but helps you feel more confident when making the decision to go solar.

If you’re considering solar energy, take the time to research your options, ask questions, and ensure you understand each step of your solar installer’s process. A well-planned installation can set your home up for decades of cleaner, more affordable energy.

Ready to get started? Complete the form below to get a free solar quote and learn more about the installation process.