LEARN THE SOLAR BASICS
Facts: Solar technology, cost, and size
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
PROCESS FOR GOING SOLAR
FLIPPING THE SWITCH
You’ve selected an installer, decided how to pay for your system, and moved forward with the agreement to purchase a system. The rest of the process follows this sequence:
BEFORE INSTALLATION STEPS:
Installer submits a request for interconnection approval
The installer will submit a request for interconnection approval from the utility. (For residents of South Bend, your installer will log into the Indiana Michigan Power (I&M)/AEP portal and submit a request.)
You sign interconnection application
You will sign the application, and it will be reviewed by I&M/AEP.
I&M/AEP conducts a completeness and a technical review of the proposed project
I&M/AEP verifies the required documentation for completeness and correctness.
Installer submits an electrical permit application for solar to the Buildings Department
The installer will submit an electrical permit application for solar to the Buildings Department.
*If the system is non-residential, larger than 11 kW, or ground-mounted or part of a new structure, the installer may need to submit more detailed information. See our Solar Photovoltaic Permit Guidelines for understanding the local approval processes.
I&M/AEP approves interconnection application and then you sign interconnection agreement
AFTER INSTALLATION STEPS:
Installer installs solar system and requests inspection from Buildings Department
Once the system gets installed, the installer will call the Buildings Department for an inspection.
Buildings Department inspects system and sends proof of inspection to I&M/AEP
The inspector will do an inspection of the solar system and send the release to I&M/AEP, in the same day.
Installer submits proof of installation and inspection to I&M/AEP
The installer will upload jobsite pictures and the inspection reports to the I&M/AEP portal. I&M/AEP will verify pictures and documents submitted.
I&M/AEP signs interconnection agreement
I&M/AEP will then sign the interconnection agreement.
I&M/AEP installs specialized metering device
Next, I&M/AEP will contact you and come to install a specialized metering device (bi-directional meter) for the system.
You call installer to flip the switch
Once the new metering device is installed, you will call the installer to come turn on your system.
The installer should do a final walk through with you to show you the components of the system, what to look for, and to answer questions.
