A solar site survey is a crucial step before installing panels. It ensures your home or business gets the best system. This guide explains every detail you can expect during a solar site survey in India today.
1. Preparing for the Visit
Before the installer visits, gather these items:
- Recent electricity bills
- Roof blueprints or drawings
- Notes about your energy needs
- Access to your roof for safety inspection
Installers use this to plan the survey. This preparation makes the process smooth
2. Assessing Sunlight and Shade
The main goal is to find out how much sun your property gets. A technician uses tools like shade meters to measure shadows.
- They check from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- They cover different seasons, especially summer
- Watch for shade from nearby trees, buildings, water tanks
Even a small shadow can reduce power significantly
Also Read Step‑by‑Step Guide to Installing Solar Panels 2025
3. Measuring Rooftop Space and Layout
Next, they measure your space accurately:
- Use tape measures and compasses
- Check roof length, width, pitch, direction, and tilt
- Leave space for cleaning, walking, and safety
Typically, 80–100 sq ft is needed for each 1 kW of solar .
4. Inspecting Roof Condition
The roof must be strong enough to hold panels:
- Check for cracks, leaks, or damage
- Note roofing materials (tiles, RCC, metal sheet)
- Ensure it is stable and can handle wind loads
A poor roof may need repair first
5. Checking Structural Strength
They ensure your home can withstand added weight:
- Inspect rafters or concrete beams
- Measure spacing and load-bearing capacity
- Determine if extra support or anchoring is needed
6. Verifying Electrical Setup
A safe installation needs good electrical infrastructure:
- Locate main service panel and breaker box
- Identify panel ratings and space for solar connection
- Snap photos of labels, meter serial, wiring paths
- Plan for inverters, junction box placement, cabling
Photos and notes help installers and engineers plan the work
7. Planning Component Placement
Installers map locations for:
- Panels
- Inverter
- Combiner/junction box
- Wiring and earthing points
They aim to reduce cable length and energy loss .
8. Analyzing Weather & Wind
In India, weather is important:
- They note solar radiation levels
- Check temperature and seasonal winds
- Choose panel types and mounting accordingly
A strong mount is essential in cyclone or wind-prone areas.
9. Considering Site Aesthetics
Surveyors consider how the system looks:
- Avoid obstructing chimneys or vents
- Ask for panel layout that suits your roof
- Keep space for maintenance
10. Using Technology Tools
Modern surveys use:
- Shade meters
- 3D modelling and satellite images
- Smartphone compass apps
- Digital forms with notes and photos
This gives accurate layout plans and panel placement
11. Recording Everything
Technicians take many photos:
- Roof surface, service panel, roof details, shadow map
- They also note building dimensions and obstructions
- These details go into a formal report
12. Final Report and System Design
After the survey, installers prepare a report with:
- Site details and measurements
- Shading map and energy yield estimate
- Suggested panel layout, tilt, and direction
- Component list (panels, inverter, cables)
- Cost estimation, timeline, and subsidy support
This helps you compare quotes from different providers.
Why Site Surveys Matter
Without a survey, panels might shade each other or require extra wiring. These problems can reduce energy up to 60 % or cause safety hazards
A good survey ensures you get the best system for your roof and energy needs.
FAQs
Q. How long does a solar site survey take?
A. Usually 1–2 hours, depending on property size and roof complexity.
Q. Do I need to be present during the survey?
A. Yes. You or a representative should be available to give access and answer questions.
Q. Will I get a system size estimate on-site?
A. You’ll get a rough estimate, but final sizing comes from the report and energy goals.
Q. Does survey include net-metering?
A. The survey plans space for necessary wiring. Net-metering connections are handled during installation.
Q. Should shade assessment cover multiple seasons?
A. Yes. Summer foliage and winter sun angles are both important for accurate planning.
Q. What tools do surveyors use?
A. Shade meters (like SunEye), compasses, level tools, and smartphone apps. Photos support design decisions.
Final Thoughts
A solar site survey ensures your solar system is safe, efficient, and well-designed. It helps avoid mistakes and maximize electricity output.
From shade checks to roof strength, electrical setup to wire paths, every detail matters. A thorough survey provides confidence in your investment. It ensures your solar journey in India is smooth and rewarding.
Author- Ayush
