Project Spotlight: 15.3 kW High-Performance Solar in Richmond, VA

Location: Richmond, VA (Central Virginia) System Size: 15.33 kW DC Panel Type: REC Alpha Pure-RX (All-Black)Inverter Type: Enphase IQ8X Microinverters Utility: Dominion Energy

In the Richmond area, no two roofs are exactly alike. From the historic homes in the Fan to the sprawling estates in Goochland and Chesterfield, solar installers need to be versatile. We recently completed a robust 15.33 kW residential installation that perfectly demonstrates how Cenvar Solar handles complex, multi-surface roofs with precision and style.

Versatility: Mixed Roof Installation

One of the unique challenges of this project was the need to install solar arrays across two different roofing materials—a common scenario for Richmond homes with porches or additions.

Asphalt Shingle: The main array was installed on the primary architectural shingle roof using flashed attachments for a watertight seal.
Standing Seam Metal: We also utilized the property's metal roof sections. Here, we used specialized clamps that secure to the seams without penetrating the roof deck, preserving the metal's integrity and weatherproofing.

Aesthetic Excellence for HOAs

Curb appeal is a major factor for homeowners in subdivisions like Short Pump or Midlothian. For this project, we selected REC Alpha Pure-RX 450W panels. As seen in the photos, these panels are "All-Black"—they have no visible silver frames or grid lines. This gives the array a sleek, modern look that blends seamlessly with the dark shingles, satisfying even the strictest HOA architectural review boards.

Superior Technology & Monitoring

To ensure this system performs despite Virginia's variable weather and tree coverage, we paired every panel with an Enphase IQ8X Microinverter.

Granular Control: Unlike old-school string inverters, this technology manages each panel individually.
Proof of Performance: We don't just install and leave; we verify. The system commissioning screenshot shows all 35 microinverters successfully scanned, provisioned, and producing power immediately upon activation.

Professional Electrical Work

The "engine room" of a solar system is the electrical work. We utilized a Line Side Tap interconnection method, which is a robust and code-compliant way to feed a large 15kW system into the home's grid.

Attic Work: Our teams take pride in hidden details. The attic conduit runs are properly supported and routed cleanly to avoid cluttering the homeowner's storage space.
Exterior Safety: All exterior disconnects and combiners are housed in NEMA 3R rated enclosures, ensuring they remain safe and dry during Richmond's humid summers and rainy seasons.

Why Solar in Central Virginia?

This 15.33 kW system is designed to offset a massive portion of the home's energy usage. By interconnecting with Dominion Energy, the homeowner can utilize net metering to credit their account for excess power generated during sunny days, locking in energy savings for decades.