How Does Solar Panel Installation Work in Switzerland?
From the first inquiry to the first self-produced electricity — solar panel installation in Switzerland follows clearly defined steps. Knowing what to expect helps you plan better and make the right decisions. This page explains the entire process step by step.
1–3 days
Installation duration detached house
for a typical single-family home
4–12 weeks
Lead time from order
incl. planning and material procurement
Turnkey
Installer handles everything
from planning to OTS application
Step by step
The complete solar panel installation process
Phase 1 — Planning and quote
1–2 weeksEverything begins with a needs analysis. A certified installer visits your building, analyses the roof area, orientation, pitch and shading. Based on this, they create a tailored quote with system size, components and costs.
Phase 2 — Permit and notification
1–4 weeksIn most cases, a rooftop solar system does not require a permit — a simple notification to the municipality is sufficient. In exceptional cases (listed buildings, freestanding systems) a building application is required. The installer handles this step for you.
Phase 3 — Material procurement
2–6 weeksAfter the order is placed, the modules, inverter, mounting system and any battery storage are ordered. Delivery times vary depending on the manufacturer and season.
Phase 4 — Installation
1–3 daysThe installation team mounts the substructure on the roof, attaches the modules, runs the DC cables and installs the inverter in the building. For larger systems, installation takes longer.
Phase 5 — Electrical connection and commissioning
1 dayA certified electrician connects the system to the domestic grid and commissions it. The system is configured and tested.
Phase 6 — Registration and subsidy
2–4 weeksThe installer registers the system with the local grid operator and submits the one-time payment (OTS) application to Pronovo. Payment is made a few months later.
Timeline
How long does the entire process take?
The biggest time factor is often the installer's workload and component delivery times — especially during peak season (spring and summer). Placing your order early is worthwhile.
Ready to get started? Compare free quotes from certified installers in your region.
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Planning and quote | 1–2 weeks |
| Permit / notification | 1–4 weeks |
| Material procurement | 2–6 weeks |
| Installation | 1–3 days |
| Connection and commissioning | 1 day |
| OTS registration | 2–4 weeks |
| Total duration from order | 4–12 weeks |
Installer services
What does a good installer do?
A professional installer handles the entire process for you. PVPro.ch only connects you with installers who reliably carry out all these steps.
- Roof analysis and system sizing
- Notification or building permit application to the municipality
- Procurement of all components
- Professional installation and electrical connection
- Commissioning and introduction
- Registration with the grid operator
- One-time payment (OTS) application to Pronovo
Your tasks
What do I need to do as a homeowner?
Actually very little. Your tasks are limited to:
- Request a quote and compare offers
- Commission the installer
- Be present during installation (recommended, not mandatory)
- Receive the introduction during commissioning
Good to know: The installer handles everything else — from the permit to the OTS application.
Find an installer now and get started
Fill in our form in 2 minutes — we connect you with up to 3 certified installers in your region who handle the entire process for you.
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Frequently asked questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the installation of a solar system on a detached house take?+
The actual installation of a detached house with 8–12 kWp typically takes 1 to 3 days. The total project duration from order to commissioning is 4 to 12 weeks.
Do I need to be at home during the installation?+
Not necessarily for the entire duration. However, it is recommended to be present on the first day and during commissioning.
Who handles the permit?+
As a rule, the installer handles the notification to the municipality or — for installations requiring a permit — the building application.
When does the system start producing electricity?+
Immediately after commissioning — that is, on the last day of installation. From the very first day, the system produces electricity as long as the sun is shining.
What happens after the installation?+
The installer registers the system with the local grid operator and submits the one-time payment application to Pronovo. You receive an introduction and can track production via an app or monitoring system.
Can I track the progress of the installation?+
Most modern inverters have integrated monitoring that you can follow via an app. The installer sets this up during commissioning.
More information: