How does my system get installed?

Once you're approved for an SGIP rebate, we can start your installation process. Here's an overview on the SGIP application process.

How your installation works:

1. Project kick off. Once you sign your Haven agreement, we'll get started on your project. Our operations team will be your main point of contact, receiving and reviewing all of your information, and managing your installation from start to finish.
2. Funding. To reserve the funds for your project, we'll submit your SGIP application to the state for approval. We'll ask you to sign the application before we submit it.
3. Design plans. With an approved SGIP application, we'll move forward with design plans. These are based on a site survey which we'll conduct at your home. In some cases, we'll perform a site survey before we receive approval for your SGIP application. Don't worry, you will have an opportunity to review these plans before we submit them for permitting approval.
4. Permitting. We'll submit your plans to the building department to get permitting, an important step that ensures your project is up-to-code. The timelines for processing your plans can vary from one county to the next, but we will keep you updated throughout the process and will contact you as soon as we hear back from the building department. You can also call them directly to check on your permitting status anytime.
5. Installation. The big day has arrived! Haven's install team will mount and wire your system and then schedule a city inspection to make sure it meets local code. Sometimes a fire inspection will also be necessary. Your system will not be operational until these steps happen.
   
   Before your installation happens, you'll need to clear the space around the install site, remove any household items or boxes, etcetera. Keeping the space free of clutter is important even after installation and after inspection as it is both a work space safety requirement and required by code.
6. Activation. Once your system is granted a "Permission to Operate" from the city or county, AND you're enrolled in your utility's approved Demand Response program, we'll be able to walk you through how to activate your system and officially connect it to the electrical grid. Until this happens, the utility requires everything to remain off. More on this below.*

Why can't my system be turned on as soon as it's installed?
We cannot turn your system on until it is inspected by the city to ensure that it meets code. With a passed inspection from the city, we will then work with your utility to file for a "permission to operate" or PTO. This is green light number one. 

The second green light we need to get is to have your system enrolled in an approved demand response program, which is an SGIP requirement.

As a reminder, we cannot guarantee that you'll receive a system unless you're approved for an SGIP rebate by the state. If you're not approved, we won't be able to move forward with your project.

New state rebates and incentives offer a chance to secure low-cost or even no-cost solar and battery systems. In California, for example, eligible homeowners can receive a free system through the SGIP program.