Solar Project Checklist: From EnerGuide Evaluation to Monitoring Performance

Introduction

Installing a solar PV system involves more than just panels on your roof—it’s a multi-stage process. When managed correctly, it can maximize rebates, minimize delays, and ensure reliable long-term performance.

This step-by-step checklist walks you through every phase—from your initial EnerGuide audit to post-installation maintenance.

Prefer to skip the paperwork?

Pre-Installation Checklist

EnerGuide Evaluation

• Book a pre-retrofit energy audit
• Receive your EnerGuide report—required for most grants and loans

Program Eligibility

• Confirm eligibility for the Canada Greener Homes Grant/Loan and provincial top-ups
• Check income caps for low-income or northern communities

Quote Solicitation

• Get at least three quotes from licensed installers
• Compare panels, warranties, labour costs, and system specs

Site Assessment

• Inspect roof condition, tilt, shading, and orientation
• Ensure structural support for racking systems

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Application Sequence

Apply for Grants & Loans

• Submit your EnerGuide pre-audit through NRCan
• Apply for the Greener Homes Grant/Loan before starting work

Provincial/Territorial Rebates

• Complete your province’s application (e.g., Ontario’s Home Renovation Savings Program)
• Save confirmation numbers and application receipts

Finalize Financing

• Confirm loan approval or HELOC terms
• Finalize PPA or lease contracts if applicable

Schedule Installation

• Plan your install date around rebate timelines
• Ensure your installer submits municipal permits

🕒 Reminder: Solenery Insights tracks this for you—just enter your postal code to stay on schedule.

Installation Day

Site Readiness

• Ensure roof and inverter location are clear
• Move any obstructions in your garage or utility area

Equipment Inspection

• Confirm all parts match your contract (panels, inverters, racking)
• Inspect shipments for damage before work begins

Safety & Commissioning

• Installer completes electrical connection and safety testing
• Utility installs a bi-directional meter for net metering

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Post-Installation Tasks

Post-Retrofit EnerGuide Audit

• Book your second audit after installation
• Submit your report to release remaining grant funds

Incentive Reconciliation

• Verify that all rebates and loan disbursements are received
• Follow up on any delays or missing amounts

Insurance & Permits

• Update your home insurance to reflect the new system
• Store your utility interconnection and municipal permits

Ongoing Monitoring & Maintenance

Monthly Production Checks

• Compare monitoring portal output with projections
• Investigate drops or inverter alerts

Net-Metering Review

• Review your on-bill credits and annual rollover balances
• Contact your utility if something looks off

Routine Inspections

• Check your roof and panels for debris or shading every season
• Watch for red or flashing inverter lights

Performance Alerts

• Set up automated alerts for output drops or errors
• Contact your installer or Solenery if issues persist

Conclusion

A structured checklist helps ensure you:

• Claim all available rebates and grants
• Stay on top of paperwork and approvals
• Monitor your system for optimal performance year-round

Whether you manage your project yourself or prefer automated guidance, Solenery makes it simple.