What Solar Designers Wish Every Installer Knew

In the fast-moving world of solar, installers and designers rely on each other to deliver systems that are not only code-compliant and efficient, but also buildable. And while both teams share the same goal, successful solar installations, there’s often a communication gap that leads to frustration, rework, and delays.

Ask any solar designer, and they’ll tell you: there’s a better way to work together.

So in the spirit of smoother projects, happier customers, and fewer last-minute surprises, here’s what solar designers wish every installer knew.

1. Designs Are Only as Good as the Info Provided

Designers aren’t magicians, we can’t guess what’s on a roof. Incomplete or inaccurate site data leads to assumptions, which lead to errors.

What installers can do:

• Capture detailed site photos (panoramic, multiple angles)
  
• Include accurate roof measurements and obstructions
  
• Flag any structural anomalies or concerns early
  

The more precise the data, the faster we can deliver permit-ready, buildable plans with minimal revisions.

2. “Installable” Isn’t Always “Ideal”, and That’s Okay

Designs are based on best practices and code, but sometimes the ideal layout doesn’t match field realities: rafters shift, obstructions move, or wire paths aren’t feasible.

We get it. Installers often have to make real-time adjustments on site.

What designers ask:

• Communicate back what changed and why, photos help!
  
• Avoid silent field edits that create inspection failures
  
• Let us update the as-builts or permit set if needed
  

We’re not here to control, we’re here to collaborate. Field insight makes us better designers.

3. We Think About Wire Runs and Conduit Too

Yes, we care about energy modeling and aesthetics, but we also think about trenching, conduit paths, and service panel access.

If something looks odd in the plans, it’s probably for a reason.

Still, if you spot a better way, say so. Your field knowledge is invaluable, especially for:

• Roof penetrations
  
• Inverter placement
  
• Tricky AHJ requirements
  

The best designs happen when designers and installers co-design the solution.

4. AHJs and Utility Rules Change, Fast

Permit revisions aren’t always our fault. Jurisdictions change codes, interpretation varies by inspector, and utilities love to adjust their interconnection rules without notice.

What helps:

• Share local inspector feedback with us
  
• Let us know when something’s changed recently
  
• Give us a heads-up if you’re seeing common rejection reasons
  

The more we know about your territory, the more we can design once, not three times.

5. We Don’t Love Change Orders Either

Every revision adds time and risk. When last-minute changes come in (new equipment, different panel layout, AHJ comments), we’ll adjust, but it helps to:

• Lock in final specs early
  
• Keep communication centralized (no scattered texts, emails, and voicemails)
  
• Use platforms or tools that track design iterations
  

Change orders cost everyone time. A little process upfront avoids a lot of pain later.

Final Thoughts: Better Collaboration = Better Solar

Designers and installers are two sides of the same coin. When we collaborate instead of working in silos, projects flow smoother, installs go faster, and customers are happier.

So here’s what we wish every installer knew:

• We want to help you build fast, safe, and smart.
  
• We’re here to listen, not just draw.
  
• Your feedback makes us better.
  

Let’s turn design into a shared tool, not a handoff, and build solar systems that work better, together.