To remain on schedule, Little Quittacas solar project developers asked for permission to install solar panels on Sundays.

On Tuesday night, the Planning Board unanimously approved the request, which allows RGS Energy to work from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 22 and Sept. 29.

Site Superintendent Jim Mellors said the extra hours were needed because delivery of 10,000 solar panels has been delayed. The panels will arrive in New Jersey around Sept. 13.

Mellors noted the installation might not require the Sunday hours. It depends on when the panels are shipped to Rochester.

A crew of 15 to 20 people will be on the site to install the panels. Mellors said only hand tools will be used and no heavy machinery will be used.

“It’s basically quiet work,” Mellors said. Additionally, the installations occur behind the earthen wall, or berm, built to shield the arrays from neighbors.

“My only concern is for the neighbors,” said Planning Board member Michael Murphy. “With the work taking place behind the berm it wouldn’t be too inconvenient for neighbors.”

Mellors said abutters weren’t notified before Tuesday’s meeting. Developers learned about the delayed shipment only three days ago.

He said residents will be informed.

Currently, 6,500 solar panels have already been installed at the site, located at 33 North Avenue.  The City of New Bedford owns the 20-acre parcel of land.

There are plans to install a total of 14,000 solar panels, which are expected to produce 4.8 million kilowatt hours annually. The panels are built to last 20 to 30 years.

Once built, Rochester won’t have access to the electricity produced, but would receive payment in lieu of taxes.