Electrical Upgrades

Learn about the potential electric upgrades that may arise when going solar.

Home Electrical Upgrades

After conducting a site survey, Free Solar Texas design team will review the system size and perform load calculations to assess the need for any electrical upgrades.
We will take necessary actions to ensure the successful installation of the system, but we will only request electrical upgrades when they are necessary.

Suppose any of these electrical upgrades are necessary to install your solar system. In that case, Free Solar Texas can provide your home with the necessary options mentioned below and can include the costs of these upgrades in your project.

Main Service Panel Upgrade

If the existing electrical panel is unsuitable for safely connecting a solar system, a Main Service Panel Upgrade will be necessary. This upgrade involves replacing the panel with either a larger-sized panel or a "solar ready" panel with additional space specifically for the solar breaker.

If a Main Panel Upgrade is not required for installing the system, but you would prefer to have it upgraded, you can electively upgrade your electric panel at an additional cost.
If you currently have one of the following branded Main Service Panels, you will be required to upgrade your electric panel.

This is to reduce inspection failures caused by the need for a main panel.

Sub-Panel

A sub-panel can serve as an alternative to a full main panel upgrade. By adding a sub-panel, you can have extra breakers available for connecting the solar system.

Derate

A derate is another cost-effective solution that can be used to avoid needing a full main service panel upgrade. It involves reducing the electrical load on the existing panel by redistributing or removing certain circuits. This allows for additional capacity to be available for connecting a solar system without replacing the entire panel.

Free Solar Texas' engineering team is comprised of experts in fields like solar energy, battery energy storage, EV charging and home efficiency.

If you want to get a free quote and design, from a certified Solar Consultant, click here.