Investing in one or several solar carports is a major decision, and like any big capital investment, can take some time before you can reap the benefits. Discover the timeline of a solar carport installation process and how long each phase typically takes.
Generally, we say that from receiving all the design drawings, surveys and other preliminary information to finally completing the carport installation can be anything between four and six months.
However, many different factors can influence this process - we've explained each stage below.
Overview of Solar Carport Installation Process
A solar carport installation is divided into five phases: the design stage, the approvals stage, manufacturing, the installation stage, and cleaning & commissioning.
The design stage involves a site visit with our groundworkers and electricians to gather information in order to produce a detailed design.
During the approvals stage, you as the client review our detailed design proposals and approve them (or request changes). If required, planning and DNO (Distribution Network Operator) applications are submitted to the local authority and DNO office.
Once approved by you, the carports are manufactured in European factories. We source the solar panels, inverters and other components needed for the installation.
The installation stage includes the groundworks, carport frame installation, solar panel installation, and the installation of inverters, EV chargers, and solar storage batteries.
Finally, the cleaning & commissioning phase involves connecting the solar panels to the inverter and testing the installation before handing it over to the customer.
The duration of each phase varies depending on factors such as the size of the carport installation and the length of the approval process.
Phase 1: Design Stage
The Design Stage begins with a site visit conducted by us, including groundworker and electrician. We check the ground conditions, survey for any existing services, check the dimensions and have a look at your consumer unit in order to plan the cabling installation. We'll also ask you for any ground surveys, topography reports and other information which we'll need for the foundation design.
Don't have the ground surveys available? Not to worry, we can get them done, but it may increase the lead time by a few weeks.
Based on the site visit and other information, a detailed design pack is produced, which includes a wiring diagram, structural calculations, and CAD drawings.
The design pack is then sent to you for approval before proceeding to manufacturing.
The duration of this stage is typically up to 4-6 weeks.
Phase 2: Approvals Stage
During the Approvals Stage, you review the proposed design and request any changes you want.
If needed, a planning request is submitted to the local authority for the carport installation. Recent changes to the law have made getting permission much easier, but informing the local authority and getting approval is still a requirement.
If the carport installation is intended to be connected to the grid, a DNO application is also submitted to the local Distribution Network Operator. However, if you opt to store the energy in batteries, this may not be necessary
The approval process for planning and DNO applications can take between 8-16 weeks, with an average duration of 12 weeks - depending on the local authority you're working with. Multiple design changes can also extend this phase as well.
Once you are happy with the proposed design, manufacturing can begin.
Phase 3: Manufacturing the Carports
The manufacturing period is generally between () weeks, including powdercoating and other finishes.
Phase 3: Installation Stage
Once the necessary permissions have been received, the installation team arrives on site and fences off the area for safety. We work with you to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum for staff.
The groundworks, including digging and pouring concrete foundations and laying cables, are then carried out.
Following the completion of the groundworks, the carport frame is installed, followed by the solar panels.
In addition, the inverters, EV chargers (if part of the installation), and solar storage batteries (if installing) are installed.
The duration of this stage can range around 4-8 weeks, depending on the size of the carport installation.
Phase 4: Cleaning & Commissioning
During the cleaning & commissioning phase, the solar panels are connected to the inverter, which is then connected to the battery storage and EV charging points (if applicable), as well as the Main Consumer Unit of the building.
The installation is thoroughly tested and commissioned to ensure proper functionality.
Any necessary repairs to the ground surface in the carpark are made, and the site is cleared of any waste generated during the installation.
Once the site is clean and safe, the fencing is taken down and the installation is handed over to the customer, ready to start generating electricity.
The duration of the cleaning & commissioning phase can be up to 3 weeks, depending on the size of the carport installation.
Planning Your Carport Installation
In conclusion, investing in a solar carport installation is a significant decision that can bring long-term benefits in terms of energy savings and sustainability.
Understanding the timeline of the installation process, from design to commissioning, is crucial for planning and managing expectations. Each phase of the process has its own timeline, from the initial design stage to the final cleaning and commissioning phase. It's important to remember we've given lead times as approximate figures only - each project is unique and therefore will have a unique timescale.
By working with experienced professionals, you can ensure a smooth and successful solar carport installation. If you are considering investing in a solar carport, let's discuss your specific needs and options for a customised solution.
