When is the best time to start planning a solar installation? Waiting until the hottest part of summer may mean missing months of stronger production while the system moves through design, permitting, installation, inspection, and utility approval.

Starting earlier can help a residential solar system become operational before or during the spring. That gives the system more time to generate electricity during the longer, sunnier days ahead.

Some utilities provide credits for excess solar electricity sent to the grid, but rates, rollover rules, and annual true-up policies vary. Homeowners should review their utility’s current program rather than assume credits will accumulate indefinitely.

Big Dog Solar’s Boise and Pocatello teams can help evaluate local conditions. Visit the Solar School, browse more educational videos, or request a personalized quote.

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You know what else is hot? The solar industry. It is buzzing, and I am telling you, there may not be a better time to consider going solar.

Some people think they will wait until the end of the year. Others do not start thinking about solar until August, when the sun is beating down on their bald heads—like mine.

However, starting the process earlier can help you get installed during the spring. That gives your system more of the year to generate electricity and potentially build up utility credits.

Then it can be smooth sailing on the Riviera, my friend.

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