D2D glossary / Solar terms
What is PTO in solar sales?
PTO (permission to operate): PTO means permission to operate: the utility's approval to switch on a home solar system after it is installed and inspected. Until PTO arrives, the panels are on the roof but may not produce power.
After installation, the city or county inspects the system and the utility reviews the interconnection. When both are done the utility grants PTO, sometimes after swapping the meter. The wait ranges from days to months depending on the utility.
PTO matters to reps for two reasons. Some companies hold the final commission payment until it is granted. And a customer whose panels sit idle for weeks is an unhappy customer, so telling them about this wait at the sale prevents cancellations and complaints.
Related terms
Read next
PTO (permission to operate): quick answers
What is PTO in solar sales?
PTO means permission to operate: the utility's approval to switch on a home solar system after it is installed and inspected. Until PTO arrives, the panels are on the roof but may not produce power.