Thinking about installing solar panels in the Philippines but not sure what happens after you inquire?
The process may sound complicated, but you don't have to figure it out yourself. From checking your electricity use to installation, permits and net metering, ACES Solar guides you through every step.
And you don't have to wait for Meralco to start saving. Your system can start lowering your electricity bill from the day it's installed, even while your net metering application is still being processed.
Here's what to expect.
The Solar Installation Timeline at a Glance
| Step | Estimated time |
|---|---|
| 1. Free consultation | Start anytime |
| 2. Site inspection | Within 24 to 72 hours |
| 3. System design and quotation | Within 24 to 72 hours after the inspection |
| 4. Electrical permit | Depends on your city or municipality |
| 5. Installation | 24 to 72 hours |
| 6. Meralco net metering | About 6 to 8 months (your system already saves in the meantime) |
Step 1: Free Solar Consultation
The first step is simple: send us a photo of your latest Meralco bill.
Our team will review your electricity use and estimate the right system size based on your monthly kWh consumption. You can also tell us about your home, your budget, and whether you're interested in adding battery storage.
Your part: Send us your latest Meralco bill and some basic information about your home.
Step 2: Site Inspection
Estimated schedule: Within 24 to 72 hours
An ACES Solar engineer will visit your property to check your roof, sun exposure, possible shading and electrical setup. This lets us recommend a system based on the actual conditions of your home, not just estimates.
During the visit, our engineers also check your property's requirements for net metering, so you'll know early if anything extra is needed.
Your part: Make sure someone can give our team access to the property, roof area and electrical panel.
Step 3: System Design and Quotation
Estimated schedule: Within 24 to 72 hours after the site inspection
We'll design a solar system based on your roof, electricity use and energy needs. You'll receive a quotation showing the recommended system size, equipment, price and what's included.
Want to see typical prices first? Read our guide to solar panel prices in the Philippines.
Your part: Review the proposal and approve the system that works for your home and budget.
Step 4: Electrical Permit
Before installation, the required electrical permit must be processed with your local government unit (LGU). ACES Solar will help process the permit and prepare the required documents. This permit is also needed later for your net metering application.
Processing times vary depending on your city or municipality.
Your part: Provide and sign the required documents.
Step 5: Solar Panel Installation
Estimated installation time: 24 to 72 hours
Once the requirements are ready, the ACES Solar team will mount the solar panels, install the inverter, and connect the system to your home's electrical setup. The exact time depends on the size and complexity of your system.
ACES Solar is licensed by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB), and our own team handles every installation. We make sure your property is treated with care throughout.
As one ACES Solar customer, Edmira V., shared: "They left the place clean and orderly."
See more of our work on our projects page.
Your part: Give our installation team access to the roof and electrical areas of your home.
Step 6: Meralco Net Metering
Estimated processing time: About 6 to 8 months
Your solar system already works and lowers your bill during this time. Net metering is a separate process that lets the extra electricity your panels produce be sent to the grid and credited to your Meralco account.
ACES Solar will guide you through the application. Meralco reviews your property, then the process moves through inspection, testing and commissioning. Once approved, Meralco installs your net meter, and your exported solar power starts earning credits.
Good to know: the 6 to 8 months is an estimate for properties with complete requirements, such as occupancy and building permits, tax documents and net metering provisions. If extra documents or electrical upgrades are needed, it can take longer. That's why our engineers check this early, during the site inspection.
Your part: Provide and sign the required documents. ACES Solar handles the application and follow-up.
What to Prepare Before You Contact ACES Solar
You don't need to know everything about solar before contacting us. Having a few things ready helps us give you a better first recommendation:
- Your latest Meralco bill (a clear photo is fine)
- Photos of your roof, if available
- Your approximate budget
- Your preferred payment option: cash, credit card, rent-to-own or in-house financing
- Whether you're interested in a Hybrid system or Hybrid with Battery
Not sure which system you need? That's okay. Our team will explain your options based on your electricity use, property and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Installation
How long does solar panel installation take?
The installation itself typically takes 24 to 72 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the system. Permits and net metering are separate processes with their own timelines.
Can I use my solar system while waiting for net metering?
Yes. Your solar system can already run and reduce the electricity you buy from Meralco while your net metering application is being processed. You don't have to wait 6 to 8 months to start saving.
Will solar installation damage my roof?
Not when it's done properly. The mounting system is chosen for your roof type, and every mounting point is secured and sealed. This is one reason a proper site inspection matters before installation.
What is the difference between Hybrid and Hybrid with Battery?
A Hybrid system works without a battery today, and you can add one later. Hybrid with Battery stores the solar power your panels make during the day, so you can use it at night. ACES Solar can help you decide which setup makes more sense for your household.
Do you install outside Metro Manila?
Yes. ACES Solar serves Metro Manila and CALABARZON, including Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon. Contact our team to confirm availability for your location.
Ready to Start? Begin With Your Meralco Bill.
You don't need to know how many solar panels you need. You don't need to calculate your system size. And you don't need to understand the whole process before getting started.
Just send us a photo of your latest Meralco bill. The ACES Solar team will review your electricity use and recommend the right system for your home.