With the rise in consumer demand for environmentally friendly products and services, many large corporations are now striving towards carbon-neutral goals to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption. Installing solar panels in commercial buildings can be a great way for businesses to achieve these goals while also saving on electricity costs.

So, does the cost of solar panels in commercial building projects outweigh the benefits? Let’s check it out.

Cost of Commercial Solar Panels

The cost of a solar panel system for a commercial project varies depending on the wattage requirements, with a 15 kW system for a retail store costing approximately $22,000, a 75 kW system for a warehouse costing approximately $109,000, and a 350 kW system for a hospital costing approximately $508,000. However, to get an accurate estimate of the cost of a commercial solar installation, it is important to consider:

o   How many solar panels the installation will need

o   The type of mounting infrastructure required

o   Which percentage of energy usage will come from solar

o   Current energy efficiency state of the building.

Benefits of Solar Panels for Commercial Projects

By embracing solar energy, businesses can effectively reduce their reliance on traditional power providers, leading to lower utility bills and potential long-term savings on energy costs. This reduction in energy expenses not only translates to cost savings but also allows businesses to channel their financial resources towards other critical areas of their operations, such as research and development, employee benefits, or marketing efforts, thereby enhancing overall profitability and competitiveness in the marketplace.

On a complete and maybe unexpected aspect, adopting solar panels can have a positive impact on a business's brand image and reputation, resulting in increased customer loyalty and support. 78% of customers admit that environmental-friendly practices influence their decision to buy from a company. Given the growing societal awareness of environmental issues and sustainability, businesses can leverage solar energy as a tangible demonstration of their commitment to green initiatives.

This approach not only helps to bolster brand image but also positions the business as a responsible corporate citizen, enhancing customer trust and engagement. In addition, certain jurisdictions offer incentives or tax credits for companies that invest in renewable energy, further amplifying the financial benefits of solar panels for commercial projects. Therefore, businesses that invest in solar panels can effectively improve their bottom line, reputation, and environmental impact, thereby setting themselves apart from competitors and driving long-term success.

Planning

Before installing solar panels on any commercial property, it's important to understand how this investment will affect the overall business finances. Business owners need to consider whether they have the capital to invest in this, and if it will become an asset down the line. 

Planning will also include other important steps such as:

o   Conducting a thorough analysis of energy consumption.

o   Making sure that your commercial structure can support the devices.

o   Considering the different panel options, choose the one that fits those needs.

o   Figuring out how much time the process will take and making sure that there’s time for that within the business agenda.

Placement

Commercial projects planning to install solar panels must carefully assess several key factors to ensure a successful and cost-effective installation. Firstly, it's crucial to evaluate the energy needs of the facility to determine the appropriate size and number of panels required, while also considering future growth or changes in energy consumption. Secondly, the installation site must be structurally sound and offer adequate sunlight exposure and minimal shading to maximize energy generation.

How Solar Shading Impacts Architectural Design and Performance

Moreover, companies should carefully consider the financing options available for solar panel installation, including leasing, power purchase agreements, and direct ownership, each with its own financial and operational implications. It's also essential to conduct thorough research on the legal requirements and permitting process to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. These regulations may include obtaining permits, complying with building codes, and adhering to zoning laws.

Getting Your Products Infront of the Right People

With rising energy costs and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of traditional energy sources, solar panels have become a popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings. Choosing these environmental-friendly alternatives for your construction projects only help reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, but they also offer significant tax savings, added market value, and even a nice basis to build a green brand that people can trust. Plus, with the variety of materials and installation options available, there's a solar panel solution for every project.

However, engaging with such innovative technology represents a challenge, both for professionals in the construction industry and those building their own spaces in the solar industry.

So, if you are ready to put your solar products in front of your ideal clients, revgen.tool is the tool for you. This cutting-edge suite of resources helps building professionals choose the best solar panels for their projects based on a multitude of specific factors.

With revgen.tool, AEC professionals can easily search for solar products to integrate into building designs and get accurate, data-driven insights on performance, cost, and carbon impact. 

For manufacturers looking to put their solar products out there, revgen.tool is the go-to space to build a comprehensive community of potential clients who value quality materials and want the best for their projects.

Find out more about revgen.tool here or check our resource center to find out more about sustainable practices for your construction projects.