Home > What to Expect

What to Expect

Carlson Solar Technologies (CST) is focused on your project from the beginning to the end. During our free site evaluation, we will gather information to design a customized photovoltaic or thermal solar system for your needs. We focus on the details that other companies overlook, so you can relax knowing that we are on the job. CST will take care of filing all rebate and permit paperwork, and scheduling all inspections. Throughout the process, you may have questions about the schedule, installation, or product, but you can rest assured because our trained staff is always available to answer any questions should they arise.

We have performed residential and commercial solar power installations in many cities throughout the state of Arizona.

Initial Site Visit

A professional from Carlson Solar Technologies will evaluate your site to determine the type and size system for your location; one that meets your goals, needs and expectations. In order to make an accurate assessment, they will need to review your past utility bills, determine available space, all of which help establish a working budget.

Submit Utility Rebate Reservation Paperwork

Your CST representative will discuss price along with rebates and incentives that apply, www.dsireusa.org. Arizona utility websites also provide information on rebates. We will submit application to utility and maintain contact throughout the process.

System design

Once a basic design is established, our certified solar designers will evaluate the project to be sure your solar photovoltaic or thermal system is as efficient as possible.

Create and Submit Engineering Construction Documents

Drawings will be created for your specific solar system and submitted to the local code authority for permitting. (The time allotted for this varies depending on jurisdictions.) Drawings are also provided to the utility company.

Installation of your System

Upon rebate approval from the utility company and when permits have been issued, your system will be ordered and scheduled for installation. Actual installation time varies; a typical 5 kilowatt system install time is approximately three days.

Inspection by City/County and Utility Company

Every installation is inspected by the local code authority. After this inspection, the utility company is informed by the local jurisdiction that the system has been issued city/county clearance. The utility company then schedules and completes their inspection.

System Commissioning

Once all inspections have been made and the system is approved by the utility, the system is commissioned and you will receive a “Certification of Installation” from the utility company.

Final Steps

A Carlson Solar Technologies Representative will explain the system and provide guidelines for maintenance. An optional maintenance contract is available for all systems. Every CST customer receives an owners manual that contains all information and warranty materials for the solar system.

With Carlson Solar Technologies the customer service does not end after the system is installed and operational. A CST representative is always available to answer any questions you may have in the future.