Anyone with a sustainable motivation has probably considered a few solar energy pros and cons to determine if going solar is the right choice for business. However, with so many individual factors to take into account, it can be difficult to make a proper comparison.
Here are a few solar energy pros and cons (and the myths that sometimes surround them) to help get you started as you begin to weigh sustainable business options. For more specific insight, we recommend contacting the KMB solar engineering staff directly for a one-on-one analysis.
What are the Pros of Solar Energy? Top 4 Benefits of Solar Power
1. Solar energy can reduce and sometimes eliminate electric bills
When you generate your own electricity through solar power, you become less dependent on your electric company, therefore reducing your monthly electricity bill. Considering a solar panel system has an average lifespan of 25-30 years, that means your business can cut costs for many years to come by making the switch to solar.
2. Solar panels improve property value
Integrating solar panels on commercial real estate does not just provide a decrease in monthly utility expenses (see number 1), but will also increase the property value significantly. Value added will be directly related to how the building is utilized, the amount of energy consumed and the increased income the property would provide when it is leased with the solar system.
3. Solar provides immediate and long-term ROI
Because of the number of generous Federal and state tax solar incentives in the United States, going solar can turn a profit and generate additional savings that pay off the cost of installation. Use this online estimator to help you see how solar power system tax credits can increase your returns. These significant cost savings could provide the opportunity to upgrade your facility, purchase new equipment, hire additional employees, offer more services, etc.
4. Solar energy reduces carbon output
Solar power benefits our environment while simultaneously adding credibility for business. A sustainable business demonstrates to the surrounding community, customers and employees that environmentally-friendly business practices and public health are valued.
What are the Cons of Solar Energy? Top 3 Cons (and Misconceptions) of Solar Power
Many commercial, municipal and industrial building property owners are interested in going solar but haven’t taken the time to fully understand all the benefits or research the cons enough to discover that many are misconceptions. We’re here to shine the light on a few faux-facts.
1.Solar installation is expensive
Solar panels are an initial investment; but while the cost of solar has decreased by more than 70 percent in the past decade, the cost of electricity has risen. Although controlling electricity usage can be a challenge, those who go solar stay in control over the associated rising energy costs.
2. Solar energy is unpredictable
If your building is surrounded by large trees or other tall buildings, your PV system may not ever reach its full potential efficiency. That is exactly why it’s important to have an engineer analyze the building site for optimal design considerations.
3. Solar requires maintenance
Over the course of its lifespan (like most equipment), solar panels do require some maintenance, but very minimal Of course, not all panels are created equal in terms of their reliability or efficiency. It’s critical to ask the right questions before hiring a solar company to ensure you get the maximum dependability for your investment.
Understanding Your Specific Solar Energy Pros and Cons
At KMB, we recognize that no two businesses are alike, which is why the Solar Engineering team at KMB offers customized solutions to meet your specific corporate solar energy needs.
We routinely work with clients nationwide to perform full-service PV design and engineering from project services. The scope of our capabilities includes land surveys; rooftop surveys; shading analysis, PV design; energy production calculations; electrical engineering; structural engineering; civil and environmental; board hearings; permitting; applications; project management.