Solar Installation Process
How We Work at Sunstream Energy
At Sunstream Energy, based in Tramore and established in 2001, we specialise in providing Solar PV installations across Waterford and surrounding south east counties. Our dedicated and professional team works with you every step of the way, offering customised solar installation solutions tailored to your unique energy needs.
Our Process: From Start to Finish
When you reach out to us, we’ll gather some basic details to understand your needs and determine the best solar system for your home or business. If needed, we can schedule a call to discuss options in more detail at any stage of the process.
We typically provide an initial quote based on the maximum number of panels we can install for your property. This can be customised to suit smaller or larger households, and if you have ample garden space we may discuss additional options like ground-mounted systems, or tailored structures such as pergolas. To provide an estimate we’ll request a couple of photos of your property and some basic usage details. We also use satellite imagery to help refine your quote.
Once you’re happy with the initial estimate and ready to move forward we’ll schedule a detailed site survey of your property with no obligation. This will allow us to assess the space and ensure the system is designed to fit your needs perfectly.
After the site survey, we’ll provide a final quote. If necessary, we can revise the quote based on any adjustments. This is typically the stage when customers schedule a call to finalise the system specifications, including whether a battery or energy diverter for hot water would be beneficial.
Once you accept the quote, we’ll send an invoice with a request for a 50% deposit to initiate the project.
If you’re eligible for the SEAI grant we’ll provide you with instructions on how to apply. The application is a simple online system, and we’ll manage the entire process for you once you have registered.
Sunstream Energy will complete and submit the NC6 form to ESB Networks to notify them of your installation under the microgeneration scheme. This will enable you to sell energy back to the grid once your system is commissioned. You’ll use your MPRN as your reference with your energy provider, who will help you negotiate a rate for selling your energy.
Once the deposit is paid, we’ll give you a provisional installation schedule. While we strive for a shorter lead time, it may take up to six weeks for panel installation. Delivery of panels and materials will occur in the days leading up to installation. Please ensure someone is available at your property to accept delivery, and be present during installation.
Following the installation of your panels, 40% of the total invoice will be due for payment. Electrical installation and system commissioning typically follow within 1 to 2 weeks, though it may take up to three weeks depending on scheduling.
Our team will install the electrical components of your system. Please note, there may be intermittent power outages during installation. Someone will need to be at your property to accept delivery of electrical equipment and to be present during the installation.
After electrical installation, we’ll set up the monitoring app for your system. You’ll be sent an email with instructions on how to download the app and access your system’s performance.
We will notify you once all necessary documents have been submitted to SEAI. You will also receive your relevant paperwork including manuals, warranty information and other important documents related to your installation.
The final 10% payment is due once installation is complete and all systems are up and running.
If you’re applying for the SEAI grant, you’ll need to arrange your own BER assessment. We can recommend an assessor if needed. After the assessment, the assessor will upload the documents directly to SEAI, completing the final step of the grant process.
Once SEAI receives all paperwork, including the BER assessment, they typically process the grant refund within two to six weeks. In some cases, SEAI may conduct on-site checks, which could delay the process slightly.
At Sunstream Energy, we guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and seamless installation experience.
SEAI Grants
You can find more details about the available grants for energy upgrades, including the SEAI’s offerings for solar energy, on their official website. They provide a range of supports for both homes and businesses looking to reduce energy costs and improve sustainability.
For more specific information about home energy grants, visit SEAI Home Grants. If you are looking for business-related grants, you can find those details at SEAI Business Grants. Sunstream Energy will work with you on your grant application during the solar installation process.
Proven Expertise
With over 20 years of experience in the solar industry, Sunstream Energy has completed more than 100 successful installations, providing reliable, sustainable solar solutions to homes and businesses across the region.