To be honest, solar energy, saving bucks on electricity bills, and protecting the planet from climate change have a lot of appeal to it. But the big question is always is solar energy that effective and is my commercial unit ready for solar panel installation? While there is no doubt that solar energy has and will be a cost-effective and environment-friendly option these days, it is important to assess whether it will make sense for your commercial unit, easily (or not with too much difficulty) installed to your roofs, and give you the peace of mind you’re looking for. 

When buying or leasing a solar energy system, here are some questions you must ask to ensure that your commercial unit is best suited to generate power with solar panels. 

#1: Location, location & location: How much sunlight does your roof receive

The first and most crucial factor to consider is your geographical location. The amount of sunlight your area receives plays a significant role in the efficiency and effectiveness of solar panels. Solar panels work best in regions with ample sunlight. The best way to assess it is by connecting with top solar panel companies in India such as SunAlpha and try out their solar panel suitability checker. Proceed with, setting up an appointment for solar consultation with an expert who will determine if solar energy is viable for you. He will calculate metrics like your area’s solar irradiance, your commercial unit’s orientation (solar panels capture more sunlight when facing south), roof angle, tree shading, etc. 

Most of these consultations are free and help you understand about your commercial unit and its best energy options. The more sunlight your commercial unit receives, the more power will the panels produce. While SunAlpha solar panels are known for their high-power generation capability, it’s best to consult with them directly before you proceed further. 

#2: How much is your energy consumption?

Understanding your energy costs is the initial step in determining if solar is a suitable choice for your commercial unit. The primary consideration revolves around potential savings. In regions where electricity rates are exceptionally low, solar might not offer significant advantages. However, for many commercial unit owners, the monthly electricity bill is a substantial and often unwelcome expense. To determine whether solar is right for you, review your past energy bills to assess your average monthly consumption.

A general guideline is that solar becomes financially beneficial for your unit with a monthly electricity bill exceeding INR 6000. Why this threshold? Transitioning to solar energy means replacing utility-supplied power with solar-generated power, with the aim of reducing costs. An INR 6000 monthly utility bill marks the point at which residential solar users begin to experience savings. If your energy consumption is relatively higher than the threshold and you live in an area with good solar potential, Commercial solar panels can be an effective way to offset your electricity costs.

The idea is to reduce your current expenses, secure a stable electricity rate, and achieve savings through the generation of your own environmentally friendly energy on-site.

#3: What type of roof do you have?

Solar panels perform optimally when installed on robust and long-lasting roofing materials. These materials include composite or asphalt shingles, concrete tiles, or standing seam metal roofs. In cases where the roofing is constructed from materials like wood shake, slate tile, or clay with mortar, or if it’s made of composite metal/stone coated steel, going solar is still feasible. However, it’s crucial to select a solar professional who possesses expertise in installing solar panels on such roof types. The choice of mounting hardware utilized by your solar installer holds significant importance. 

#4: Will your roof need a replacement

It is not always the case that your commercial unit has a good roof for solar panel installation. An important consideration is to have the correct type of roof when considering solar energy. It is always a wise decision to install solar panels when your roof is in good condition and not nearing the end of its lifespan. Your roof should be structurally sound and can withstand the extra weight. 

Ideally, solar panels should be affixed to roofs that won’t require replacement in the immediate future. Given that the savings garnered from high-efficiency solar panels can potentially cover the cost of a roof replacement within just five years post-installation, it might be prudent to undertake any necessary roofing work prior to your solar installation.

Hence, before proceeding with your project, assess your roof’s age, structural integrity, and compatibility with commercial solar panels. If your roof fails to meet these criteria, you can strategize to either replace it before transitioning to solar or explore alternatives like a ground-mounted system or a solar carport.

#5: How is your local climate like?

Solar energy can thrive across a wide spectrum of extreme climates, from regions with heavy rainfall to scorching hot locations. Assessing your roof’s suitability for solar can be facilitated by solar suitability checker tools, offering insights into how your specific climate might impact solar energy generation.

It’s worth noting that high-efficiency solar panels excel in converting both direct and indirect sunlight into electricity, ensuring functionality even on cloudy days. When considering solar for your commercial unit, a solar consultant can provide estimates regarding the energy your system will produce, giving you a glimpse of potential savings.

For areas prone to severe weather conditions, it’s essential to evaluate the durability rating of the panels under consideration. SunAlpha panels have earned the top spot in durability testing, signifying their capacity to withstand harsh weather elements. 

#6: Policy and zoning restrictions 

Municipal policies vary from place to place and can significantly influence the adoption of distributed energy and metering practices within a region. There might be limitations on capacity, dictating the number of solar panels you can install and the system’s overall size. Additionally, interconnection regulations may influence the setup of your solar system. Therefore, it’s essential to engage in thorough research before embarking on a construction project and ensure that these factors are integrated into your design.

In some areas, municipal zoning regulations can impact the solar installation process. Consequently, it’s advisable to confirm the absence of zoning restrictions, historic property considerations, or district-level limitations that could hinder the placement of solar systems on your property before commencing your project.

Readying your commercial unit for solar panel installation 

When thinking about investing in renewable energy through solar panels on your roof, your primary objective is likely to reduce your electricity expenses. However, the extent to which this goal can be achieved depends on several factors. These factors encompass the level of direct sunlight your location receives, the dimensions of your roof (including its condition, pitch, shape, and size), and considerations related to upfront installation expenses, maintenance costs (typically minimal), and the electric panel’s cost. The effectiveness of your solar energy system will be influenced by these various elements.