Clarity. Transparency. Confidence in Every Commercial Project.
At One Place Solar, we believe that every successful commercial solar installation begins with a clear understanding of who is responsible for what—from design and engineering to execution and utility approval. In a crowded market full of promises and packages, we stand apart with a transparent, service-first approach built on consistency, code-compliance, and professional engineering.
Whether you’re a solar EPC, developer, or installer, understanding what we include in our commercial project support—and what we leave to our trusted partners—is key to a smoother project experience.
In this blog, we’re outlining exactly what services we provide, which ones are optional or premium, and what we do not offer, using our recent 246.4 kW ground-mounted project at Special K Hog Farm (McLean, IL) as a real-world example.
Services We Always Provide (Standard in Every Commercial Project). These are the core services we include with all commercial solar projects, regardless of size or location.
1. Preliminary Design Layouts (Solar Prelim Design)
We begin with accurate, AHJ-conscious preliminary designs that include:
- Module layout based on usable land or roof area
- String grouping and inverter mapping
- Tilt, azimuth, and row spacing calculations
- Basic production estimates
McLean Project Example: For the 246.4 kW system, we created a 14-array layout using 448 modules, oriented at 180° azimuth with a 30° tilt—maximizing space and production.
2. Solar Permit Design Sets
We deliver fully detailed permit packages, formatted per local AHJ standards, including:
- Site plans and equipment placements
- Electrical single-line and three-line diagrams
- Conduit routing and trench schedules
- Structural mounting details
- Labeling and rapid shutdown documentation
Always included: Designs that follow NEC 2020, ASCE 7-10, and local code amendments.
3. Engineering Stamp (PE Stamp)
All designs are reviewed and stamped by licensed professional engineers in your project’s state.
Included in our McLean project: State of Illinois PE stamp for structural and electrical sheets, along with wind/snow load analysis specific to Funks Grove Township requirements.
4. Utility Interconnection Documentation
We prepare interconnection diagrams and documentation to support utility PTO (Permission to Operate). This includes:
- Conductor sizing
- Line-side or load-side tap configurations
- CT cabinet layouts
- Utility-specific notes and formatting
Our team helps ensure a smooth review process by anticipating utility redlines before they happen.
5. AHJ & NEC Compliance from Day One
Every design adheres to the current National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes. From RS Box-Duo shutdown compliance to correct conductor fill ratios—we prioritize approval-ready designs.
Optional / Premium Services (Add-On Support Available)
While not part of every project by default, these services are available on request or via custom scope.
1. On-Demand Revisions or Redlines
If an AHJ or utility requires mid-review revisions beyond standard updates, we provide:
- Fast-turnaround redline response
- Utility-specific clarification drawings
- Resubmission assistance
We charge per revision round or offer bundled revision packages for large portfolios.
2. Performance Monitoring Integration Design
Need inverter-level or module-level monitoring systems? We can include:
- Monitoring equipment layouts
- Communication line planning
- Network setup diagrams (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, cellular)
We design for systems using Fronius Solar.web, Enphase Enlighten, or custom data loggers.
3. EV Charging Station or Battery Add-Ons
We offer complete design sets for:
- Level 2 and DC fast charging stations
- Battery energy storage integration (AC or DC coupled)
- Generator-PV hybrid systems
These are quoted separately based on system type, capacity, and load profile.
4. Permit Submission and AHJ Coordination
Although we supply all documents needed, actual permit submission is handled by the contractor. However, we can assist with:
- Permit form preparation
- Drawing uploads and portal access
- Communication with building departments
Available as an optional admin support service.
❌ What We Do Not Provide (By Design)
There are services we intentionally do not offer—either to avoid conflict with licensed trades or because they fall outside the scope of solar design and engineering.
1. On-Site Installation or Construction Management
We are not an installer or EPC. While we work closely with installation teams, we do not:
- Hire subcontractors
- Handle material procurement
- Supervise site labor
2. Ongoing Maintenance Contracts
We do not provide long-term O&M (Operations and Maintenance) plans. However, our designs include access pathways, labeling, and conduit layout for easy future servicing.
3. Predictive Analytics or Energy Guarantees
We provide estimated production using validated irradiance data, but we do not guarantee:
- System ROI or payback
- Performance-based incentives
- Degradation curves or real-time analytics
These are best handled by software providers or asset management firms.
Why Transparency Matters
In the McLean project, our client benefited from:
- Clear division of responsibilities between design, install, and utility coordination
- Fast permit approvals due to code-aligned documentation
- Simple integration of ATS and utility interconnection using a line-side tap
Because everything was clearly scoped and defined, there were no delays, no rework, and no surprises.
Let’s Build It Right, From the Start
When you choose One Place Solar, you’re choosing a team that:
- Understands what AHJs require
- Designs to NEC from the first layout
- Offers scalable, stamped permit sets
- Never hides scope details behind vague terms
Our clients appreciate knowing what we do, what we don’t, and what they can always count on.
Want to see what’s included in a real project set?
Contact us today to request a sample solar permit design, sales proposal, or to learn more about our full list of commercial services.