You’ve reviewed the proposal, signed the contract, and made your deposit, and your commercial solar project is officially underway. But what happens next?
A commercial solar energy system is a major investment but one that pays dividends for years to come through lower energy costs, valuable tax incentives, improved ESG performance, and a strong return on investment.
Now it’s time for the exciting part: turning the plan into a fully operational solar energy system.
At Artisun Solar, we’ve completed more than 850 commercial solar installations across industries ranging from manufacturing to agriculture and retail. While every project is tailored to the specific needs of each client and facility, the overall process follows a proven, three-phase framework:
- Pre-installation
- Installation
- Post-installation
Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect throughout your commercial solar project:
Phase 1: Pre-Installation
Every successful solar project starts with careful preparation.
Your custom proposal was built from a detailed evaluation of your property, energy usage, and available incentives, whether federal tax credits, state programs, or utility rebates. Our design team ensures your solar array aligns with your facility’s energy needs and your long-term business goals.
Once you approve the project and make your deposit, the process begins:
1. Engineering Walk-Through
Our team conducts a detailed on-site walkthrough, whether rooftop or ground-mounted, using advanced tools such as drones to finalize your system’s design and layout.
2. Design Approval
Our NABCEP-certified engineers prepare final structural and electrical plans that meet local codes and safety standards, including:
- Structural and Electrical Engineering: Our licensed engineers create stamped plans for the racking system, electrical connections, and inverter placements
- Load Calculations and Compliance: We ensure the design adheres to all building codes, electrical codes (NEC), fire setbacks, and local ordinances
- Interconnection Planning: We work with your utility provider to determine how your solar system will interconnect with the grid
3. Permitting and Utility Approval
We manage the permitting process, working directly with local authorities and utilities to secure grid interconnection. You’ll receive regular updates along the way.
“Everything was about as smooth as I could imagine. There was always help from Artisun Solar if I needed anything.” — Tim Keusch, Keusch Glass
4. Equipment Procurement & Shipping
Once permits are secured, we order all system components—panels, inverters, racking, and electrical gear—from trusted manufacturers. We time material deliveries to align closely with the start of installation.
Phase 2: Installation
This is where the transformation happens.
Our licensed field crews follow a tightly coordinated schedule to minimize disruption to your operations. Typical installation steps include:
- Racking & Mounting: Securing the framework on your roof or ground mounts.
- Electrical Work: Installing inverters, wiring, and transformers.
- Panel Installation: Mounting solar modules on the racking system.
- System Interconnection: Connecting the solar system to your building and the utility grid.
We typically install about 100 kW of capacity per week, depending on site complexity. Quality checks are performed throughout, and your team stays informed at every step.
Case in Point: National Cart Co. in Missouri had a tight deadline. Artisun Solar completed their 1.5 MW project in just 12 weeks, beating the industry average of 15 weeks or more. Read the full project summary here.
Post-Installation
Even after the panels are up, our work isn’t done. This phase ensures your system operates at peak performance.
1. Quality Assurance Testing
Before going live, we perform full system checks:=
- Electrical Testing: Voltage, current, and connection verification.
- Mechanical Inspection: Racking and mounting integrity checks.
- Software Setup: Configuring your monitoring platform for real-time data.
No system is energized until it passes final inspections from both local authorities and your utility.
2. System Commissioning and Energizing
Once approved, your system is energized meaning it officially begins producing energy.
You’ll receive:
- A complete system walkthrough (operations, safety, and performance)
Final documentation (as-built drawings and warranties; O&M manuals available upon request) - Login access to monitor system output, savings, and performance from any device
💡 What does “energizing” mean?
If you connect a garden hose to the spigot, lay it across the yard, and attach a sprinkler. Water doesn’t flow until you turn on the water. When a solar array is energized, electricity starts flowing to the building for the first time, just like water rushing through the hose.
3. Ongoing Monitoring and Support
Our relationship doesn’t end on day one. Every project includes:
- 6 to 12 months of active monitoring to confirm performance
- Fast response service if any anomalies are detected
- Full warranty coverage (25-year panels, 10-year inverters/racking, 5-year workmanship)
Through an online monitoring program, you’ll also have access to this information. Our team will guide you through the platform to help you manage your system for years to come, and we’re always available should you need assistance.
Why Choose Artisun Solar?
A commercial solar installation is a multi-step process, but with Artisun Solar, it’s seamless and stress-free.
From permitting and engineering to installation, energizing, and post-installation support, our team handles every detail. You stay informed. You stay confident. You stay in control.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward clean, cost-saving energy, schedule a free building analysis today to discover what solar can do for your business.
