Who Installs Solar Panels? Know Who to Hire

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are wondering who installs solar panels, hire a solar panel installation contractor with industry-standard credentials. Many installers hold North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification, and some states require licensed electricians for solar work.

A qualified company pulls the required permits, installs components correctly, and helps you avoid warranty issues. Use this hiring guide to choose confidently and set clear expectations for your project.

Benefits of Hiring a Solar Panel Pro to Install Your Solar Panels

Hiring a local solar panel installation professional ensures proper installation and protects your warranty. NABCEP-certified installers demonstrate training, experience, and exam-proven knowledge to size your system and recommend panel counts. Pros fasten racking securely and handle permits and inspections. Working with a qualified contractor helps you harness solar energy efficiently without risking manufacturer protections.

• Carries NABCEP certification for proven solar expertise

• Accurately assesses needs and system size recommendations

• Secures racking and panels correctly on roof or mounts

• Pulls the correct permits for your installation

• Preserves manufacturer warranty protections

• Installs inverters and integrates batteries when included

• Wires the system to your home through code-required components

• Performs inspections for new systems and maintenance

If you’re unsure about the complexity of your installation or want to ensure every step is handled by a certified professional, you might want to consider a solar panel installer near you to make sure your system is installed safely and up to code.

Can I Hire an Electrician to Install Solar Panels?

You can hire an electrician to install solar panels if they are certified for the work. Some states require solar installers to be licensed electricians, so verification matters. Electricians install the wiring that connects panels to the power system and can perform inspections when they are NABCEP-certified and experienced. Not every electrician qualifies; confirm solar installation certification before you hire.

• Confirm they hold relevant solar certification, such as NABCEP

• Verify they meet state licensing requirements for solar work

• Ensure experience with complete solar system installations

• Ask if they perform solar inspections for new systems

• Choose a dedicated solar installer if certification is lacking

How Do Solar Panel Pros Install Solar Systems?

Solar pros install the racking or ground mounts, inverters, and panels, then wire the system to your home. When included, they add a battery. The installer connects inverter wires, routes them through a junction box and PV disconnect switch, and ties into the home’s circuit breaker box. Each step follows required permits and helps keep warranty protection in place.

1. Attach racking on the roof or install ground mounts

2. Install the solar inverters

3. Secure solar panels to the racking or mounts

4. Install a battery if part of the system

5. Wire the inverter through a junction box and PV disconnect to the circuit breaker box

6. Complete required inspections as needed

How Much Does Installing Solar Panels Cost?

Installing solar panels costs, on average, between $40,000 and $48,000 for an average home. The size of the solar system, model of panels, and your location can increase costs. The professionals' certifications and experience can also be a factor. Some installations run as low as $39,600 for smaller installations, while larger homes or more extensive projects can be upwards of $57,000.