Installing solar panels in commercial properties has many great benefits, such as cost savings over time and a reduced carbon footprint. For this reason, you should know the best direction to solar panel system installation. In this blog post, we will examine the steps required to set up solar panel systems in commercial buildings. This includes assessing your building’s suitability, designing your solar panel system, securing permits and approvals, installation and wiring, connection to the grid, and more. We’ll also discuss the commercial solar panel installation process, commercial rooftop solar panels, commercial solar installation costs, and so on.
Commercial Solar Panel Installation
Want to know about the commercial solar panel installation process? The practice of placing solar panels on commercial structures to produce power and energy from the sun is known as commercial solar panel installation. This renewable energy source is gaining popularity with businesses looking to cut overall costs and minimize their carbon footprint. In this post, we will discuss the complete process of commercial solar panel installation, the commercial solar installation cost, and other related topics for your business. it is noted that you can hire commercial solar contractors to complete the commercial solar power installation.
Using solar energy is a widely accepted alternative for different types of buildings, such as commercial properties. Installing solar panels on rooftops is an ideal way to make use of unused areas and produce clean and sustainable power. The commercial solar systems installation process includes assessing the roof’s suitability, choosing the most suitable panel system, and enlisting the services of a qualified installer to guarantee that the installation is safe and effective. Installing solar panels on commercial rooftops can be especially advantageous, considering the large and flat nature of these surfaces that are optimum for collecting solar power.
We discussed mainly installing solar panels on commercial rooftops. But that does not mean this is the only way to install solar panels. But this way you can save space for your building while increasing its beauty.
The commercial solar panel installation process typically involves the following steps:
1. Site Evaluation
This is the initial phase of every commercial solar power installation. This first site assessment serves as the foundation for the solar design and installation plans. This action entails:
- Legal checks to confirm that you have permission to install a solar energy system on the premises.
- Deciding where and how to connect your solar energy system to the electricity grid.
- Evaluation of the site, including topographical and geological studies, structural evaluations, and shade analyses.
2. System Design
The design and installation plans are formalized during this stage. You’ll receive a design drawing illustrating the panel placement for maximum solar absorption as well as the construction process. As per your request, the design will display roof-mounted, ground-mounted, or carports.
3. Construction
Depending on the type of your commercial rooftop solar panels project and the size of your system, the construction procedure may change. While larger, more intricate rooftop systems might take up to several months, smaller rooftop systems can be installed in as little as two to three weeks. Despite the fact that well-thought-out plans cause the least amount of disturbance to daily operations, you’ll still want to be ready for things like alternate parking spaces and brief power outages.
The majority of skilled solar installers have creative solutions that will help limit interruptions to your regular business operations.
4. Installation
The solar panels are installed on the commercial solar roof or ground mount system. The system is connected to the grid when electrical and mechanical components are installed. The installation process is inspected to ensure compliance with safety standards and local regulations.
5. Commissioning
Once construction is finished, commissioning comes next. Your solar power service provider needs to certify that your solar installation was built. Then, the utility will allow you to run your solar energy system in conjunction with the local electricity grid. To make sure it satisfies the demands for energy generation, the final commissioning is carried out. You have successfully started producing your own renewable energy.
6. System Operation and Maintenance (O&M)
To guarantee the solar energy system’s optimal performance and longevity, regular maintenance and monitoring are conducted. Regular upkeep and care will extend the life of your solar panels on commercial rooftops and guarantee their highest performance and power output. The extent of your organization’s involvement in O&M should be outlined in your contract.
A team that specializes in solar design and installation and has a track record of excellence in long-term support should be chosen. The best O&M packages typically include fundamental annual inspections, warranty repairs, performance monitoring, and perhaps even standard cleanings.
Commercial Solar Panel Cost Per Square Foot
Calculating the Commercial solar installation cost is important before investing. In another section, we have shown the average cost of solar panels for 2000 sq ft home. It may help to get an estimation for your commercial solar system installation. However, here are some factors to consider:
Square Footage Of Panels
The price of commercial solar panels varies with the square footage required. The more square footage needed, the higher the cost.
Material And Product Quality
The price of different materials and products varies. Such as the type of solar panel, mounting hardware, wiring, and inverters. High-quality components may be more expensive but may last longer and increase efficiency.
Installation Costs
Installation costs consist of the fees to assemble the system, labor costs for professionals, engineers, designers, electricians, and permit costs. This can also vary based on your location and accessibility.
Tax Credits And Financing Options
There are tax credits available for commercial solar panel systems. There are also financing options such as leases, loans, and power purchase agreements. These can help make the system more affordable upfront.
In summary, the size of the setup, the quality of materials used, installation costs, and incentive options such as tax credits and financing can all influence the commercial solar installation cost.
Commercial Solar System Installers
It is critical for the successful implementation of your solar project that you select a reputable and experienced commercial solar system installer. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting commercial solar PV installers:
Experience And Reputation
Commercial solar system installers with proven track records should be your first choice. Check for reviews, ratings, and references from previous customers to assess their reputation. Consider their experience working on projects similar in size and complexity to your own.
Licenses And Certifications
You should ensure that the solar installer you choose is licensed and certified to install solar panels. This includes proper electrician licenses and certification from reputable organizations like NABCEP. Proper licensing and certifications ensure that the installer complies with all local regulations and safety standards.
Quality Of Components And Services
The standard of the parts employed in your solar panel setup will affect its productivity, strength, and lifespan. Choose a solar installer that uses high-quality components from reliable manufacturers. Furthermore, search for an installer that provides comprehensive upkeep and assistance services to keep your system operating effectively.
Pricing And Financing Options
Consider the pricing and financing options offered by potential solar installers. Get multiple quotes from different installers to compare pricing, and ask about financing options like solar loans, leasing programs, or power purchase agreements. Choose an installer that offers competitive pricing and financing options that fit your budget.
To sum up, choosing the right commercial solar system installer is crucial to the success of your solar project. Evaluate potential installers based on their experience, reputation, licenses, certifications, quality of components and services, and pricing and financing options.
Commercial Solar Installation Companies
Companies that specialize in commercial solar installations provide businesses of all sizes with expertly designed, installed, and maintained solar systems. These companies have the knowledge to customize solutions for their clients, so they can get the most out of energy efficiency, cost savings, and environmental impact.
From assessing professional-grade engineering and construction to customizing financing options, they make it easy for businesses to switch to clean energy. These companies also offer scheduled maintenance programs and comprehensive warranties. And other services such as load analysis or power purchase agreements help business owners better understand their energy usage and maximize savings.
However, commercial solar panel installation companies in the USA are businesses that specialize in installing solar energy systems on commercial properties. Here is a list of some of the best companies and their headquarters for commercial solar installation:
- AUI Partners, Texas
- Sunshine Solar, Georgia
- Standard Solar, Maryland
- Nexamp, Massachusetts
- DMH Services, Pennsylvania
- Onsite Solar, New York
- M Bar C Construction, California
How Much Do Commercial Solar Panels Cost?
Usually, commercial solar panel installation costs per square foot are between $4 and $10. A lot of solar installers base their estimates on the number of watts needed to supply the energy needs of your home. This frequently ranges from $2.53 to $3.15 per watt. The cost is an approximation before tax rebates and incentives. It is noted that if you know the solar system calculation process then you can get a real concept to buy solar panels for your industry.
On the other hand, the expense of commercial solar panels can vary based on factors. Like size, type, and installation location. Generally, the cost of these systems is estimated between $50,211 to $502,113. Small business owners may need to allocate around $100,000 for a system while bigger structures may need to budget up to $1 million or higher.
How Big Are Commercial Solar Panels?
Commercial solar panels usually come in bigger sizes than those used for residential purposes. They measure roughly 6.5 feet in length and 3.35 feet wide, sporting at least 72 solar cells that can make the whole panel weigh up to 50 pounds.
How To Install Commercial Solar Panels?
Solar panels for commercial use can be installed on rooftops with either ballasted or anchored racking systems. Ballasted racking utilizes blocks of concrete or other anchor-heavy items to keep the panels in place on flat roofs. The attached racking attachments enable tiltable mounting with roof penetration bolts. There are numerous installation possibilities when it comes to commercial projects- this includes factory rooftops, parking lot carports, and large ground-mounted arrays.
What Is Commercial Solar?
Solar energy that is used for commercial or industrial purposes is known as commercial solar. It encompasses any solar power usage that does not involve households or utilities. Also referred to as ‘distributed generation’, this type of electricity is created and used in the same local area.
Where Can Commercial Solar Panels Be Installed?
Solar panels can be set up in many places, such as the roof and awnings of commercial buildings, on flat surfaces like a flat roof, barns and sheds, pergolas, gazebos, patio covers, carports and parking shades, atop poles, or even on bodies of water like ponds or artificial lakes (known as ‘photovoltaics’).
What Factors Impact The Cost Of Commercial Solar Panels?
Numerous elements influence the price of commercial solar panels. Below we will discuss some of the main factors that impact the cost of solar panels.
Type And Brand Of Equipment
The cost can be impacted by the kind and make of equipment you install.
Mounting System
The price you pay depends on the type of solar energy system you install. Such as roof-mounted, ground-mounted, or carport.
Roof Material
The cost of commercial solar panels can vary relies on the sorts of material used to build it.
Roof Configuration
The cost can be affected by how the roof is set up.
Distance To Interconnection Point
The cost can be impacted by how far away the solar system is from the connection point.
Shade
The amount of shadow that is cast over the solar panels can influence the expense.
Interconnection Costs
Interconnection costs will directly affect the cost of commercial solar panels.
How Long Does It Take To Install Commercial Solar Panels?
The timeline to install commercial PV panels typically falls between 7 and 21 weeks, which covers all necessary steps. This includes:
System Selection and Site Preparation: The design and planning process can require anywhere from one to four weeks.
On-Site Solar Panel Installation: It may take up to three days for the installation process to be completed.
Government and Local Authority Approval: It may take between three and eleven weeks.
Utility Permits: It could take anywhere between three and seven weeks.
Conclusion
To wrap up, getting commercial solar panels set up entails several steps and necessitates the experience of a specialized solar installation company. These companies provide a complete range of services to assist companies in transitioning to renewable energy. From researching the site and devising the system to funding and installing it, they look after the entire procedure from beginning to end. Business owners can ensure an effortless and productive transition to solar energy by selecting a reliable solar installation company.