When a rooftop solar installation isn’t the right move for a commercial business, that doesn’t mean solar power is off the table. Solar panel carports are an emerging trend that companies can use to take advantage of the unused space covering a parking area.
Commercial parking lots are generally large and expansive, making these spaces ideal for absorbing solar energy. By installing solar panel carports over a parking area, businesses can still reap the benefits of solar energy. Read on to find out if a solar panel carport is right for your business.
What is a Solar Panel Carport?
Solar panel carports are canopies that provide coverage above parking areas and are equipped with solar panels to take advantage of sunlight exposure. They are popular options for charging vehicles in sizable commercial parking areas.
Solar panel carports use a similar technology to typical panels mounted on a rooftop. The resulting energy produced from the solar panels is converted to alternating current and is used to supplement grid electricity.
Benefits of Having a Commercial Solar Panel Carport
Here are a few benefits of having a solar panel carport:
Minimize Your Energy Expenses
Solar carports offer a simple way to turn new commercial surfaces into mini power plants. Clean electricity can be generated on-site rather than buying power from utility companies. Benefit from your company’s monthly energy bill savings and sell excess solar back to the utility company through the Solar Net Metering program.
Efficient Use of Space
Solar panel carports require no additional space. They are installed over your existing parking spaces, making them effective in using available space. You don’t have to worry about the size of your solar panels since you can choose your panels depending on your preferred size.
Flexibility and Customization
Solar panel carports are more customizable in color, size, angle, and shape than roof-mounted solar panels. You can install them at an angle that guarantees maximum exposure to sunlight.
If you’re using them for your commercial business, you can utilize your space through flexible styles and color options that match your brand.
Easy to Maintain
It’s easier to maintain a solar panel carport, primarily when servicing them or dealing with weather-related issues, unlike roof-mounted solar panels. You don’t need a lot of effort to access and service them.
Reduce Heat Island
Bare pavement creates a heat island. They release a lot of heat into the environment, increasing the risk of rising global temperatures. However, by installing solar panel carports, your business can reduce this risk and utilize it to save the environment through clean energy.
The Cost-Benefit of Installing a Solar Panel Carport
Like roof-mounted solar panels, the cost of installing solar panel carports depends on a variety of factors. However, commercial solar carports are generally larger and more expensive to install, with extensive long-term benefits.
In addition to the many tax breaks available for businesses that choose to go solar, companies that construct solar carports (and other solar panel systems) can write off their solar energy carports through the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS). This reduces businesses’ tax responsibility and accelerates returns on solar investments. Qualified solar equipment is eligible for a cost recovery duration of five years. Accelerated depreciation can decrease net system costs by an additional 30 percent.
Get Your Solar Carport with Solar Optimum
The success of an excellent commercial solar panel carport begins at the installation. At Solar Optimum, we are committed to providing the best solar services to businesses. Contact us today, and let’s help you install your solar panel carport professionally.
