When most people think of a solar company, they picture the panels on their neighbor’s roof or the crew installing them. But what goes on behind the scenes before a single panel is installed? The answer might surprise you.

At Wolf River Electric, and companies like ours across the Midwest, there’s a lot more to solar than hardware. From the initial consultation to permits, engineering, and final inspections, each project is a carefully managed process designed to ensure reliability, savings, and long-term performance—especially in climates that test durability year-round.

Here’s what it really takes to bring solar to life:

Step 1: Personalized Solar Consultation

It starts with a conversation. We sit down with homeowners, farmers, or business owners to understand their energy needs, goals, and site specifics.

  • Is solar right for them?
    We assess roof pitch, shading, usage patterns, and future plans.
  • What’s the payoff?
    We model energy savings, available incentives (like the 30% ITC and local utility or community offerings), and payback timelines specific to the Midwest market.

Step 2: Engineering and Design

Once a customer decides to go solar a project manager is assigned who is the guide through the process and timeline. And, the go-to resource for questions.  

  • Site visit assess property, utility meters and all areas to allow the design engineer to properly design the system to meet 
  • Structural reviews ensure your roof or land can handle the equipment.
  • Electrical plans are tailored to your panel layout, energy consumption, and interconnection requirements.
  • Midwest considerations? You bet. We factor in snow loads, wind shear, and winter performance to ensure your system performs through -20°F days and heavy snows.

Step 3: Permitting and Utility Coordination

This part isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential.

  • Local permitting varies widely in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and other states we serve.
  • Interconnection applications with utilities like Xcel Energy or local co-ops must follow detailed protocols.
  • Our team handles every step—working with inspectors, city planners, and utility reps to move your project forward.

Step 4: Installation

Now the part you do see.

  • Crews arrive with pre-approved plans and materials, usually installing residential systems in 1–3 days.
  • For commercial and ag installs, timelines vary—but we maintain rigorous quality and safety standards.
  • Every project ends with commissioning, inspections, and system activation.

After the Install: Support & Monitoring

Our job doesn’t end when the panels are turned on.

  • Ongoing support includes system monitoring, warranty guidance, and help navigating SRECs or utility billing.
  • In snowy climates, we educate customers on maintenance (hint: most systems need very little).
  • And we’re always a call away when questions come up—especially during the first billing cycle with net metering.

Why Transparency Matters

Going solar is a big decision. That’s why we believe in building trust through education. Whether you’re just starting to research or you’re ready to install, knowing what happens behind the scenes can help you make confident, informed choices.

If you’re in the Midwest and curious about your solar potential, our team is here to guide you—start to finish.