The process
From first call to switch-on: how a solar install works in WA
Most of a solar install happens before anyone gets on the roof: approvals, design and paperwork. Here's the order we run it in. A typical job takes three to four weeks from first call to switch-on.
1. Your bill and a conversation
We start with your latest Synergy bill, all pages, and ideally your half-hourly usage from Synergy's My Account. We ask how you use power: who's home during the day, whether there's an EV or a pool coming, whether you want blackout backup. That's what sizes the system, not a standard package.
2. The quote
You get a written quote showing the equipment, the system price, each rebate as its own line, and what you actually pay. Ours are valid for 14 days. Every quote is subject to a site inspection and network approval.
3. Accepting, and the cooling-off period
You accept by signing and paying a 10% deposit. You then have a 10 business day cooling-off period. We book a provisional install date straight away so the job isn't waiting in a queue.
4. Site visit and design sign-off
Our accredited designer visits to check the roof, the switchboard, the meter box, where the inverter and battery will go, and the Wi-Fi signal there. If anything changes the price, you get a revised quote before going further. The designer then signs off the design.
5. Synergy and Western Power
With your written authority, we register the system with Synergy and apply to Western Power to connect it. Western Power says about 85% of applications are approved within 24 hours. The rest need a technical review, which can take up to 15 business days. Overhead power lines are the most common reason for a review, because the service cable has to handle the extra solar.
6. Install day
A typical solar and battery install is a single day. The accredited installer must be on site at the start, during, and at commissioning, and takes date-stamped photos at each stage for the rebate claim. Before we leave, the inverter is connected to your Wi-Fi, registered with the manufacturer, and tested with Synergy, so your export limit can be lifted. We set up the monitoring app on your phone with your own login and walk you through the system.
7. Paperwork and payment
The balance is due on completion. Within days the electrician lodges the Notice of Completion and issues the Electrical Safety Certificate, and we claim the rebates you assigned to us. You get copies of the certificates, warranties and manuals.
What can slow it down
- A switchboard that needs upgrading to fit the new circuits.
- Western Power asking for changes to the system size.
- For new builds: the house needs its power connection and meter before the application can be completed.
Want the numbers for your house?
Send us your latest Synergy bill and we'll size a system from your actual usage, show every rebate as its own line, and tell you what we can and can't offer before you sign anything.