Australian businesses are considering rooftop solar solutions to combat rising electricity costs. Over the past decade, electricity prices have doubled, with a projected 25-30% annual increase.
Commercial solar, once considered costly, has become cost-effective, saving businesses upto 70% on energy costs compared to grid-dependent options. This highlights the growing significance of solar panel installations.
Understanding Commercial Solar PV Technology
- 1. Solar PV technology harnesses sunlight to generate electricity for Australian homes and businesses.
- 2. The use of solar PV systems has surged, offering a cost-effective way for businesses to cut energy costs and promote sustainability.
- 3. Commercial solar systems outperform residential ones in energy generation
- 4. In 2023, an average household solar system is around 6.6kW with approximately 18 panels.
- 5. Commercial solar systems are diverse, offering three distinct types.
- 6. This underscores the growing significance of solar energy and the demand for top-quality solar panel installations in Australia.
Different Sizes of Commercial Solar System
Just as homes have varying energy needs, businesses also differ. Your commercial solar system size depends on energy usage and available panel space. Systems under 30kW typically don’t need extra permits or commercial specialists; residential solar installers can handle them.
There are 3 main brackets that classify as ‘small’, ‘medium’, and ‘large’ for commercial solar.
Small (6.6-100kW)
Medium (100-250kW)
Large (250kW+)
Small (6.6-100kW)
Commercial systems of this size typically involve 100 to 400 panels on buildings like local bowls clubs or small retail spaces. To connect to the grid, you’ll need DNSP permission, so it’s advisable to hire a commercial solar installer.
These systems under 100kW qualify for STCs, offering a point-of-sale discount.
Medium (100-250kW)
Mid-range commercial solar systems of this size necessitate the expertise of a commercial solar panel installation specialist for planning. They require applications for grid connection and safety.
Medium-sized systems no longer qualify for STCs but generate LGCs annually, so there’s no point-of-sale discount. These systems, typically with 400 to 750 panels, are commonly found in factories and large business buildings.
Large (250kW+)
Systems of this magnitude demand a specialist commercial installer due to their size and space requirements. They are commonly found on large factories, shopping centers, and solar farms. Planning, permits, engineering, and paperwork are extensive for systems exceeding 250kW.
Commercial Solar Panel Installation Steps
1. Site Evaluation
The first step in commercial solar projects is a thorough site evaluation, covering legal checks, grid connection planning, and property assessments like shade analysis, structural evaluations, and surveys.
2. System Design
Following the site evaluation, the system design phase solidifies solar installation plans with a design drawing outlining panel placement and construction details. Installation options can range from rooftops to ground-mounted or solar carports, tailored to your requirements.
3. Installation
Solar project timelines depend on size and complexity. Smaller rooftop systems take 2-3 weeks, larger ones several months. Plan for potential disruptions like power shutdowns or parking changes. Choose an experienced installer to minimise inconveniences.
4. Commissioning
Commissioning, the final step after construction, involves verifying your solar installation’s compliance with the plan and securing permission from the utility to connect it to the local grid. You’re now generating clean energy!
System Operation and Maintenance
For a long-lasting and efficient solar system, focus on maintenance. Your contract should clarify your O&M responsibilities. Select a reputable solar team with robust O&M support for inspections, warranty repairs, performance monitoring, and occasional cleaning.
Advantages of Commercial Solar Power
Benefits of Using Solar PV Systems for Businesses
Solar panels reduce daytime energy costs for businesses with high electricity consumption.- Installing solar PV panels leads to lower reliance on the grid, offering swift payback and long-term savings.
- A small business using more than 50,000 kilowatt-hours annually can offset more than 70% of its electricity consumption with a 30kW solar system.
- Solar systems are low-maintenance and can increase your property's resale value.
- Embracing solar energy reduces your business's carbon footprint, attracting environmentally-conscious customers and referrals.
- Solar panel installations offer a cost-effective solution for businesses to cut expenses amidst rising energy costs in Australia.
Key Components of Commercial Solar Systems
1. Solar Panels
Commercial solar power systems rely on solar panels, converting light into energy through the solar effect. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are the two main types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages based on factors like location, energy requirements, and budget. Choosing the right solar cells is crucial for optimising energy output and long-term cost savings in a business solar system.
2. Inverters
Inverters are essential for converting solar panel-generated direct current (DC) electricity into usable alternating current (AC) for appliances and grid integration. Two common types in commercial solar systems are string inverters, cost-effective for large installations with consistent sunlight, and microinverters, more efficient and suitable for setups with variable shading or orientation, optimizing each panel's performance individually.
3. Battery Storage
While optional, adding battery storage to a commercial solar system boosts efficiency and energy independence. Storing excess energy allows power supply during peak demand or when the sun isn't shining, helping cut electricity costs by avoiding peak-hour tariffs. When selecting a battery storage system, businesses should consider energy needs, budget, and warranty options.
How are commercial solar panel systems different from residential solar panel systems?
Commercial solar panels are designed to handle the higher energy demands of businesses. They are larger in size and have more solar cells than residential panels to accommodate this increased energy need.
While not all commercial solar systems demand panels specifically designed for large-scale applications, employing high-wattage panels can significantly boost the overall power output of the system. Some commercial panels can accommodate up to 96 cells and often generate over 400 watts per panel approx.
Commercial solar panels are larger and, therefore, more expensive, but they produce more energy per panel.
What rebates and incentives are provided by Australian government?
The primary federal government incentives come in the form of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), including
- 1. Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) for solar systems ≤ 100kW.
- 2. Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) for systems > 100kW.
- 3. STCs and LGCs hold significant trade able value and can often be signed over to solar installers for discounts.
State government incentives and feed-in-tariffs differ, with some offering extra rebates.
Various financing options, like PPAs and leases, can cover solar installation costs, sometimes without upfront fees.
Reference – https://www.energy.gov.au/
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is my location suitable for commercial solar panel installations?
We offer free site assessments to determine the perfect setup for your solar panels. Factors like shading, roof orientation, and roof condition will be considered to ensure the ideal setup for your solar panels.
So, wherever you are in Australia, you're in a prime spot for solar. It's a bright choice for your wallet, and our planet!
2. Do I need special permits for solar panel installation?
Permits might be necessary for solar installations, but we've got you covered. We take care of the permitting process, ensuring a hassle-free experience for our customers.
3. Is BVR Energy licensed and insured?
Yes, BVR Energy is fully licensed and insured. We take every measure to ensure that our customers have peace of mind when choosing us for their solar solutions.
4. What warranties and guarantees does BVR Energy offer?
Our solar PV systems come with manufacturer’s warranty and our installations come with workmanship warranty, and you'll find all the specific details outlined in your personalised quote.
Conclusion
BVR Energy provides commercial solar panel solutions for significant energy savings, financial stability, and environmental responsibility. We offer quality, sustainable, and tailored options to help businesses harness solar power effectively.
Leverage our expertise, reduce energy costs, and benefit from government incentives for a smarter commercial solar transition with BVR Energy. Explore our website for a greener and cost-effective future.
[Disclaimer: The blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. For accurate and up-to-date information on renewable energy, refer to reputable sources and consult with experts in the field.]
Please don’t hesitate to contact Betta Value Renewable Energy if you have any questions about this topic.
