We get asked this question a lot, so today, we are going to give you a definitive list of all the permits and applications that are prerequisites for your solar panel installation.
Before we proceed, it’s crucial for you to understand that when you choose Green Power Energy, your solar installation becomes a completely turnkey setup. You don’t have to worry about purchasing the equipment, applying for permits, worry about other paperwork, or anything else. We’ll take care of it all, and for no additional cost. So, you get to enjoy a smooth, uneventful solar installation experience.
Now, let’s get to the permits:
- Building and Electrical Permit
Every solar installation, irrespective of whether it’s a rooftop installation or a ground-mount installation, requires a construction permit from your local municipality building department. The permit includes both building and electrical applications.
- TREC Application
The Transition Renewable Energy Certificates (TRECs) program has finally replaced its predecessor, SREC. Residential customers can now apply to the TREC program and earn extra money by selling their TRECs to utility companies in the open market. The TRECs are awarded to customers based on the amount of solar energy produced by their system.
To qualify for the program, a separate application must be submitted. For more details, you can check here.
- Interconnection Application to Utility
Assuming that your solar installation will be a grid-tied system, it must be connected to your local utility provider. This interconnection requires another application to your utility, followed up with an as-built verification and a subsequent follow-up inspection once all the electrical setups are complete.
- Variance Application (In Some Cases Only)
Home improvement projects like solar systems come with standard safety guidelines and installation requirements. If your installation cannot fulfill those guidelines (distance from the rear property line, for instance), then a variance application must be submitted for your project.
- Zoning Permit (In Some Cases Only)
Typically, a standard rooftop solar installation does not require a zoning permit. However, some towns have made it a necessity. So, in those cases only, we’ll have a submit a site plan indicating the location of your solar installation on the property.
The situation is different for a ground-mount solar installation. In this case, it’s mandatory to submit a zoning application, irrespective of where you are located in NJ.
As we mentioned before, our solar installation services offer a complete turnkey solution, and you don’t have to worry about any of the permits and applications.
