If you don’t have solar panels installed on your roof, then you probably know someone who does. Residential solar systems are becoming increasingly popular, as is commercial solar for businesses. But it may surprise you to know that commercial solar systems are not simply bigger versions of residential systems. There are noticeable differences between the two, including size, installation, and cost.
The size of commercial solar systems
Obviously, commercial solar systems are going to be bigger than residential ones. The bigger the business, the more power it needs, and compared to a family home, that means a larger system.
But it’s not just the scale of the installation, but the size of the panels which is different.
On average, commercial solar panels are 96 cells in size, while home solar panels are usually 72 cells.
This roughly equals about 30cm per panel, but while solar panels are bigger for commercial purposes, that means they also produce energy more efficiently.
This difference in efficiency carries huge savings over the course of a decade, savings which could mean the difference between a small business surviving or going under.
Commercial solar panels need more planning, but easier to install
Installing solar panels commercially tends to be a bit trickier in the planning stages compared to residential jobs, but, somewhat counter-intuitively, they are easier to physically install when the time comes.
Planning installation for a company has many other factors that need to be taken into account, such as neighbouring businesses, permits, and higher technical specs.
Residential systems, on the other hand, are bread and butter for a solar panel company, and it’s a lot easier to plan.
Installation is another matter, and surprisingly the roles are reversed.
This is simply because most commercial solar systems are installed on flat rooftops, instead of the sloped roofs of suburban homes.
When solar panels are installed on flat roofs they can be mounted using a simpler system, one that is easier, faster, and cheaper to set up.
Commercial solar panels are more expensive – but more efficient
Of course, a solar photovoltaic system for a business will be more expensive compared to one for a family home, but the power they generate is worth it.
As mentioned above, because commercial solar panels are larger and have more cells, they produce more power and work more efficiently than residential panels.
And since the cost of solar power is calculated per kilowatt-hour, the numbers show there actually isn’t much of a difference between residential and commercial systems at the bottom line.
Here’s why your business should be installing commercial solar panels
Many company owners are considering whether or not to make the switch to solar, and we can honestly say it is the right time and the right move.
The recent advancements in solar technology mean that solar is cheaper and more efficient than ever before, making the switch a very smart move.
After the initial investment (which the government will help you with), there are immediate savings to be made.
The Government announced an $18 Billion stimulus package to help people with the effects of the coronavirus. Part of this package is tax breaks on the purchase of solar panels for business.
The cost of electricity in Australia is increasing year on year, with no signs of stopping. By converting your business to solar you are avoiding the inevitable and continuous rise in energy costs.
For many companies, the financial aspect isn’t the most important part.
Sustainability is now the buzzword, with many businesses going green to protect the planet as well as their reputation.
Solar power is non-polluting, non-toxic, quiet, and produces no waste materials, so switching to commercial solar is the easiest way to contribute to a sustainable future.
If you would like to know more about transforming your business through solar power, then contact us today.
We have years of experience in the installation of solar panels, both residential and commercial.
As Adelaide’s solar experts, we’re ready to handle any job, no matter how big or small.
Our friendly and professional team are experts in a wide range of electrical machinery and solar technology, whether it’s installing, repairing, or optimising the latest systems.
The sooner you make the switch, the sooner you start saving, both money and the planet.
Bright Earth Solar offers a range of exceptional solar products, helping you save money while doing your bit to save the planet. We keep you up to date with new technology, innovation and trends in renewable energy.