Should New Commercial Buildings Go Solar?
Using solar energy for your commercial building sounds like a great idea. After all, solar energy has been the talk of the town with nothing but good things being said about it. However, as a business person, getting into something because it is popular is not the right way to do business. Many people ask us: should new commercial buildings go solar?
One needs to understand why going solar is ideal for your business. There’s a ton to consider before you take this step. Our Sacramento commercial builders share the benefits of going solar below.
Why Go Solar?
Lower Operating Costs
Your solar panel will significantly reduce the amount of money you spend on energy bills every year. Normally, most commercial buildings require a constant power supply which is expensive. Solar power will help you cut down on costs.
Additional Marketing Opportunities
Solar energy is currently a big topic for many corporations. Thousands of companies are being urged to take the initiative and embrace practices that protect the environment through proper usage of resources and going green.
It is considered attractive to work with companies that are involved in measures that protect the environment and embrace the responsible use of natural resources. Companies and corporate heads who take part in demonstrating their ability to commit to a sustainable business with reduced greenhouse gas emissions and overall pollution are continually finding it easier to do business.
Low Maintenance Needs
Our commercial construction company explains that solar panels do not need a lot of work once the installation process is complete. Our Sacramento neighbors over at Gilmore Heating, Air and Plumbing, Sacramento HVAC company, explains that solar panels can last an extremely long time. Usually, solar panels come with a warranty of 15-25 years. The only maintenance you will need for your solar is to clean it and keep it free of debris.
Things to Consider
Setting up a solar installation is an attractive venture with many upsides for any commercial builder. However, it does not just start and end with buying your solar panels and getting someone to install them.
There are factors you need to consider before going solar to increases the chances of success and to make sure that you get value for your money. These include:
Improve on your efficiency.
Your general efficiency is important for ordinary business as well as the overall impact of your solar panels. Solar installation is supposed to help enhance energy efficiency.
Therefore, make sure that you carry out an energy audit before installing your solar and curb out any other energy wastage.
Learn the different types of solar systems available
There are different types of solar systems and each is suited for a different type of commercial building.
- Rooftop systems: These solar systems are installed on the roof of the building. The solar roof system utilizes unused space on your roof and is usually placed away from everyone’s view and access.
- Carport Systems: If your commercial building’s roof does not provide enough space for solar mounting, you could make use of your parking lot area or garage. This is usually an underutilized space that will provide enough surface area to mount hundreds of solar panels for your building’s use. Also, it helps provide the required shade for your customer’s vehicles.
- Ground systems: These are solar panels that are mounted on the ground. Ground solar systems are more cost-effective than other types. Also, it is easy to customize the systems to meet your building’s power requirements, especially if you have space.
Learning about these solar systems allows you to get the right solar on the first try. It also ensures that you get the most out of your solar.
Learn the different financing and payment options
You do not have to pay cash upfront for your solar power systems. While this is still an option, a lease option exists where you lease the solar for use. Our commercial renovation company explains that there are different federal or state subsidies that provide programs such as PACE or SRECs.
Getting the Right Professional for your Solar Installation
Commercial buildings can and should go solar. However, as a building owner, you need the best advice and service for your solar planning and installation. Contact Headwaters Construction Inc and enjoy the best commercial building services all year round. Our team will work with your local solar company to ensure that you get the most out of your building and solar.