Custom 9kW REC Solar Panel Installation & Commissioning | Roanoke, VA

Written by
Stephen Vernon
Published on
February 19, 2026

Service Available: Solar Panel Installation Branch: Roanoke, VA

Project Case Study: From Paper to Power

Every home's energy needs and roof dimensions are unique. For this homeowner in Roanoke, the goal was to achieve maximum energy offset with a high-efficiency 9kW system. The project began with meticulous custom planning—our team mapped out the exact roof dimensions, confirming that all 20 panels would fit perfectly on the main facets alongside an upcoming roof replacement from Cenvar.

Once the layout was optimized, our local Roanoke installation team executed the build. However, the job isn't done just because the panels are bolted to the roof; the true test is the final digital commissioning. We meticulously wired the system into an Enphase combiner box on the side of the home. Using the Enphase Installer software, we connected the system's IQ Gateway to the local Wi-Fi and verified that every single microinverter was scanned, provisioned, and actively producing power. The result is a fully optimized array with an estimated first-year production of 12,025 kWh.‍

Key Upgrades & Materials

We utilize premium, industry-leading technology to ensure long-term, high-yield performance.‍The specifications for this custom system included:

  • High-Output Solar Panels: We installed a 9kW array consisting of 20 REC PURE FX 450W panels. These panels are engineered with advanced heterojunction cell technology, providing exceptional power density so you get maximum energy out of your available roof space.
  • Advanced Microinverters: Each panel was paired with an Enphase IQ8 Microinverter. The IQ8 series represents the cutting edge of solar technology, converting DC power to AC power efficiently. Because each panel has its own microinverter, they operate independently—if one panel experiences shade, the rest of the array continues operating at full capacity.
  • Rigorous Commissioning: We installed dedicated "PV ROOF" breakers in the control panel to safely integrate the solar power with the home's electrical system. During the final software setup, we successfully achieved a 20/20 communication rate across the array, ensuring the homeowner gets exactly what they paid for.

Why Custom Design Matters

A "one size fits all" solar system rarely yields the best financial return. By physically mapping the roof space and utilizing panel-level microinverters, we ensure that every square foot of your roof is optimized for peak sun hours, translating into lower utility bills and greater energy independence.‍

Curious how many panels will fit on your roof?

We use precise mapping and shade analysis to design custom systems that fit your energy needs and your budget.

Get a Free Solar Estimate & Design

Man wearing safety harness and gloves handling a yellow rope on a roof with green trees in the background.

Ready to Take the Next Step With Solar?

Contact us today for a honest assessment of your solar potential. Let us show you how our approach to solar is different, and why hundreds of homeowners have trusted us to power their future.