Over the past several years, property investors have seen substantial cost reductions in commercial solar engineering solutions. The ongoing developments in solar technology, coupled with this decrease in the overall cost associated with solar solutions has led to the growing predominance of commercial solar installation throughout the United States.
And it’s not slowing down. The International Energy Agency reports that solar energy could become the largest global source of electricity by 2050. Here are a few important ways solar has evolved and four different challenges (and their solutions) that businesses face when considering commercial solar installation.
Commercial Solar Installation (R)evolution
Cost
More than ever, businesses are turning to commercial solar installation to decrease their carbon footprint and save money. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the cost of residential and commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has fallen every year by an average of 6 to 8 percent since 1998. And since 2006, the installed cost of solar energy has decreased by more than 70%.
Location
Today, developments in commercial solar installation is moving from desert areas into more populated locations. Businesses are taking advantage of previously under-utilized space such as their rooftops or surface parking lots. They then turn it into an investment opportunity.
Efficiency
Increased efficiencies in solar cells have allowed more energy to be generated in smaller areas such as those buildings with limited roof space. In addition, new microinverter technologies have made solar panels more tolerant to shade, boosting reliability and overall production. These progressions in solar efficiency have helped businesses save money on electricity, making solar energy an even more appealing option.
It is clear, that the develop, design and build for commercial solar installation has taken shape over the years. And as solar systems become a more prominent energy option for businesses, shopping centers, hospitals, colleges, sports arenas, nonprofit organizations and restaurants, etc., challenges need to be addressed.
4 Commercial Solar Installation Challenges (And Solutions)
Setting Goals
Before an institution even begins thinking about the design for their commercial solar installation, it is important to first define your goals. Many businesses are increasingly committing to sustainability goals through renewable energy. Many are interested in generating power to save, or even make, money.
Determining Location
After goals become defined, consider the potential area for the installation and by assessing the solar potential for that location. Ask the obvious questions such as, “Will the location receive enough exposure to the sun?” “How much shading is in the area?” In addition, determine the orientation of the azimuth angle, orientation of the tilt, pollution, weather and any other factors that could affect the levels of your solar energy generation.
Flexibility
Consider your facility’s schedule, permitting, applications and any security restrictions to allow for flexibility in your installation schedule. A strategic approach to the design and construction of a solar array will minimize business disruptions. Many commercial locations also have building construction happening at the same time as the solar installation, so coordination and communication become of high importance.
Communication
Setting goals, determining location and establishing future flexibility are just three facets (among many others) that will help define your commercial solar installation needs. Additionally, because this processes also involves multiple parties, building owners, community leaders, regulatory bodies, and even neighboring businesses need to establish effective communication.
From the system’s initial conceptual design and feasibility phase throughout its typical 25-year lifespan, project management and communication is paramount to any project’s success.
KMB Commercial Solar Installation Services
Exciting changes are happening in the solar industry, bringing with them new opportunities that businesses should start preparing for now. KMB offers engineering services for a wide range of commercial solar installations. Covering small scale (less than 10KW) to large scale (over 8MW). We are at the forefront of the escalating solar industry and have the ability to work nationally without limitations.
Get in touch with us today at 855-755-6234 to learn more.