Permitting & Interconnection, Demystified
Design, interconnection, permit, inspection, net metering. Here’s exactly how a South Sound solar project goes — and we handle all the paperwork.
People are often surprised how much paperwork sits behind a clean solar install. The good news: we handle all of it for you. Here is what the process actually looks like in Thurston County and across the South Sound, so you know what you are signing up for.
The step-by-step process
- 1. Design & site assessment. We measure your roof, shading, and usage and size a system to your home — not a generic spec.
- 2. Utility interconnection application. Before installation, we submit an interconnection application to your utility (for PSE, through their online portal) and wait for approval to construct.
- 3. Electrical permit. Solar and battery systems require an electrical permit — issued by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) or your local jurisdiction if it runs its own permitting. We pull it.
- 4. Installation. Our licensed crew installs to code — the same crew, accountable for the whole job.
- 5. Inspection. The electrical work is inspected and the permit finalized.
- 6. Notice of completion & meter. We notify the utility; PSE tests the system for safe interconnection and installs any new meter required.
- 7. Approval to energize & net metering. The utility gives approval to energize and starts net metering so your production offsets your usage.
Typical timeline
For most homes, the install itself is a day or two; the surrounding utility and permit steps are what set the calendar. In Washington, residential systems up to 30 kW using certified inverters generally qualify for PSE’s simplified interconnection review, with a target around 15 business days; larger or non-standard systems take longer. We give you a realistic schedule up front and keep you posted at each step.
Why local knowledge matters
Permitting details differ between jurisdictions — Olympia, Tumwater, Lacey, unincorporated Thurston County, and L&I do not all handle things identically. Because we work here every week, we know the local authorities and inspectors, which keeps your project moving instead of stalling on a paperwork technicality.
Common questions
Do I need a permit for solar in Washington?
Yes. Solar and battery storage systems require an electrical permit, issued by Washington L&I or your local jurisdiction. We pull the permit and handle the inspection for you.
How long does the solar process take?
The install is usually a day or two; the utility interconnection and permitting steps drive the overall timeline. Standard residential systems up to 30 kW often qualify for PSE’s simplified review with a target around 15 business days. We give you a realistic schedule up front.
Do you handle the utility paperwork?
Yes — the interconnection application, permit, inspection coordination, and net-metering setup are all on us. You do not have to chase forms.