Recent Projects:
Powerful 40-200 kW Solar System
Understanding The Basics Of Commercial Solar Panels
Photovoltaic (PV) panels collect energy from the sun and send that direct current (DC) via wires to an inverter which then converts that DC to alternating current (AC). That conversion process is essential because most appliances in a home, office, or industrial complex would not be able to use raw DC. How much a solar PV system can generate in a day depends on how large the solar PV array is as well as the working capacity of the inverter or inverters. External factors including cloud cover and ambient temperature can also affect the efficiency of solar power generation. Ultimately, we are talking about a renewable energy source that is of great value to businesses and also leads to positive outcomes in terms of social responsibility for investing in cleaner energy alternatives.
Why Commercial Solar Panels In Perth Are Gaining Popularity
It is given that Perth commercial solar panels are increasing in popularity. These large-scale solar panel installations are a popular facility upgrade because the energy savings from these systems help businesses to reduce their carbon emissions. Even medium-sized businesses are dedicating their corporate sustainability strategy to the rollout of solar PV panels especially in industrial sectors where factories have the roof space to accommodate an impressive array.
How Commercial Solar Panels Can Help Your Business
Why waste energy and money on traditional power systems costing your business? Commercial solar initiatives will help your business tenfold by using natural energy from the sun to convert into power, inevitably reducing the amount of energy needed to run your business operations. When your business operates during daylight hours, installing solar panels can either partially or completely offset your entire daily consumption. Offsetting the energy needed for your utilities is money saved in your pocket, which can be used on more pressing costs associated with your business.
Cost Savings on Energy Bills
Bill shock is a common reason for turning to solar. As energy prices continue to rise, and demand for electricity increases, something has to give. Fortunately, a solar PV system can help to offset the cost of electricity. Depending on how the system is configured, anything generated in real-time can be fed directly into your business which will decrease the amount of power you would typically need to draw from the grid.
Using sunlight and natural energy sources will contribute heavily to reducing a business’ carbon footprint. In March 2022, Australia’s total greenhouse gas emissions were up 1.5% on the previous year. By installing a commercial solar system, business owners that are environmentally conscious will be at ease knowing that their business is contributing to helping the environment.
Businesses that are thinking about installing solar panels not only can reduce their operating costs but also increase the value of their property. No matter what industry you’re in, buyers installing solar panels provide a better return on investment, which is a more attractive option for buyers.
Our Projects
We have worked with several businesses around the Greater Perth region over the past 15 years. During that time we have worked on a number of projects ranging from 40 kW to 200kW systems.
Advantages of Commercial Solar Panels in Perth
Cost Savings on Energy Bills
Bill shock is a common reason for turning to solar. As energy prices continue to rise, and demand for electricity increases, something has to give. Fortunately, a solar PV system can help to offset the cost of electricity. Depending on how the system is configured, anything generated in real-time can be fed directly into your business which will decrease the amount of power you would typically need to draw from the grid.
Positive Impact On The Environment
Alternative renewable energy sources such as solar PV are always received well by the community and leaders in business. By transitioning away from 100 percent reliance on coal-powered power stations you can play an important role in the country’s shift towards alternative fuels and lead by example. These commercial decisions can also influence other major players in your industry to decarbonize where it makes sense to. Solar panels are a great move in that direction.
Tax Incentives And Government Rebates
Since the rollout of solar panels throughout Australia there has been a history of tax-related incentives and government initiatives including feed-in tariffs where the owner or user of the solar PV system can earn up to ten cents per kilowatt fed back into the grid, depending on the time of day. To learn more about what schemes may be currently available, contact us for more information.
Energy Independence and Security
Producing enough solar power to offset most of your electricity consumption during the day is the ideal outcome for your investment. By directing the power you generate to your appliances and hardware, especially during peak periods, you will not only notice cost savings but you will be one step closer to true energy independence and security. This is important particularly if your office or facility is relying on an external power network which may already be under considerable load and demand.
Maximising the Benefits of Commercial Solar Panels in Perth
Energy Storage Systems
We have talked at length about traditional solar panel systems being tied to the grid but there are other configurations to be aware of, including the use of energy storage systems or batteries. With the right setup, you can charge a bank of batteries with solar PV energy and maintain a handy backup supply in the event of an emergency or even defer to battery power when the need arises. What that might look like for your business can depend on your operational requirements and energy needs.
Net Metering
A typical solar PV installation, particularly with residential properties for example, is generally metered to send power through your property first with the surplus energy being sent back to the grid. It is that surplus power that the retailer pays you credit for, while you also benefit from actively using the power your system produced. This is what it means to have net metering. For commercial and industrial arrangements, machinery, equipment, or anything that draws on electricity, it will come from your solar PV installation first and if there is any leftover alternating current it will be redirected to the electricity distributor.
Power Purchase Agreements
For commercial solar panel arrays that generate excess quantities of energy, it might be worthwhile striking up a deal with a third party to sell it to them. This is a basic explanation of what a power purchase agreement is. Essentially, the power generator party enters an agreement to sell power to the purchaser outside of the typical electricity infrastructure. In many ways this would be a private arrangement outside of the grid.
Green Building Certifications
You can add value to a commercial building with a solar panel array. Sustainable or green building certifications are generally used to rate a building’s compliance or adherence to set sustainability goals. It can even serve as an incentive for businesses to invest in facilities that already feature energy-saving technologies such as a solar PV system.
Factors Affecting Commercial Solar Panel Efficiency in Perth
Temperature and Weather Conditions
Did you know that extreme heat does not make a solar panel more effective? An extremely hot solar panel, for instance, will actually lose electricity-generation potential. The sweet spot is around 25 degrees Celsius which is what all panels are generally rated for in Australia. This means that considerations must be made for the placement of the panels so that they can perform to their maximum potential for the full duration of their service life. Fortunately, these considerations are a part of our standard installation process. Panels do need sufficient space for airflow and cooling which is why they are mounted accordingly. Some situations may even call for a ventilation system or actual cooling to ensure the panels are always working at the optimal temperature.
Shading and Obstructions
Satellite imagery is wonderful in that the installers can refer to a range of tools, similar to Google Maps, where a surface area can be reviewed over a series of timestamps to determine any potential obstructions or shading issues that may impact the performance of a proposed solar PV installation. Look out for nearby trees, buildings and anything that could cast a shadow on a solar panel array. As solar panels are installed in series it only takes one impacted panel to drop performance for the entire system.
Panel Orientation and Tilt
The best angle for your solar panels is about 26 degrees facing the sun. This is why the panels are typically mounted on a racking system. There are circumstances where it may not be possible to achieve the perfect angle but our installers work hard to ensure that the solar panels are placed in the best possible position for optimal energy gain via stands and racks to turn them to the optimal position.
System Design and Components
How large of a system can you fit on your roof space? What key components and other design elements do you need to be aware of? Our diligent team can walk you through the process and handle any questions you may have from the types of panels and inverters used to other helpful tips on how to monitor and maintain your solar panel installation.
Common Concerns About Commercial Solar Panels in Perth
Upfront Costs and Affordability
The cost of a solar panel system is relatively affordable these days and they often pay for themselves throughout their operation. If the initial capital up front is a challenge, consider the long-term benefits and savings from taking control of your energy production and consumption. Investing in renewable energy is worthwhile. Chat with our team to learn more about payment plans, special deals, and any other schemes that might assist with the purchase of a solar PV system.
System Reliability and Performance
It can be daunting to learn new technology especially when it comes to solar. The good news, though, is that it is easy to learn how to monitor and track the performance of your system. You want to acquaint yourself with the inverter, this is the machine that not only converts that direct current to alternating current but also has a computer-like interface on the display that you can use to see the performance in real time. Some inverters even have remote access tools or data loggers that you can use to check performance data from the comfort of your office. It is important to take responsibility for regularly monitoring the inverter’s output because it is these numbers that can tell you when it might be time to organise a system check-up. By checking on the number of kilowatts the system is producing on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis you can get a sense of patterns or trends and when something goes awry these numbers can help to identify what the issue may be. For those who like to number crunch, this activity can even be a bit of fun to calculate the cost savings and performance gains.
Aesthetics and Design Considerations
Does your community or industrial area have strict rules or guidelines when it comes to solar panel visibility on rooftops from the road? For branding reasons, you may prefer to have your panels installed in a location that is not visible at all from the ground. Whatever your preferences are when it comes to aesthetics, our team can advise the best solution for you.
Government Policies and Regulations
There are limitations and rules that all installers must follow concerning the safe installation of solar panel systems. If you have any questions or concerns in this respect, please contact our team for a consultation.
Tax Incentives and Government Rebates
Since the rollout of solar panels throughout Australia there has been a history of tax-related incentives and government initiatives including feed-in tariffs where the owner or user of the solar PV system can earn up to ten cents per kilowatt fed back into the grid, depending on the time of day. To learn more about what schemes may be currently available, contact us for more information.
Energy Independence and Security
Producing enough solar power to offset most of your electricity consumption during the day is the ideal outcome for your investment. By directing the power you generate to your appliances and hardware, especially during peak periods, you will not only notice cost savings but you will be one step closer to true energy independence and security. This is important particularly if your office or facility is relying on an external power network which may already be under considerable load and demand.
Maximising the Benefits of Commercial Solar Panels in Perth
Energy Storage Systems
We have talked at length about traditional solar panel systems being tied to the grid but there are other configurations to be aware of, including the use of energy storage systems or batteries. With the right setup, you can charge a bank of batteries with solar PV energy and maintain a handy backup supply in the event of an emergency or even defer to battery power when the need arises. What that might look like for your business can depend on your operational requirements and energy needs.
Net Metering
A typical solar PV installation, particularly with residential properties for example, is generally metered to send power through your property first with the surplus energy being sent back to the grid. It is that surplus power that the retailer pays you credit for, while you also benefit from actively using the power your system produced. This is what it means to have net metering. For commercial and industrial arrangements, machinery, equipment, or anything that draws on electricity, it will come from your solar PV installation first and if there is any leftover alternating current it will be redirected to the electricity distributor.
Power Purchase Agreements
For commercial solar panel arrays that generate excess quantities of energy, it might be worthwhile striking up a deal with a third party to sell it to them. This is a basic explanation of what a power purchase agreement is. Essentially, the power generator party enters an agreement to sell power to the purchaser outside of the typical electricity infrastructure. In many ways this would be a private arrangement outside of the grid.
Green Building Certifications
You can add value to a commercial building with a solar panel array. Sustainable or green building certifications are generally used to rate a building’s compliance or adherence to set sustainability goals. It can even serve as an incentive for businesses to invest in facilities that already feature energy-saving technologies such as a solar PV system.
Factors Affecting Commercial Solar Panel Efficiency in Perth
Temperature and Weather Conditions
Did you know that extreme heat does not make a solar panel more effective? An extremely hot solar panel, for instance, will actually lose electricity-generation potential. The sweet spot is around 25 degrees Celsius which is what all panels are generally rated for in Australia. This means that considerations must be made for the placement of the panels so that they can perform to their maximum potential for the full duration of their service life. Fortunately, these considerations are a part of our standard installation process. Panels do need sufficient space for airflow and cooling which is why they are mounted accordingly. Some situations may even call for a ventilation system or actual cooling to ensure the panels are always working at the optimal temperature.
Shading and Obstructions
Satellite imagery is wonderful in that the installers can refer to a range of tools, similar to Google Maps, where a surface area can be reviewed over a series of timestamps to determine any potential obstructions or shading issues that may impact the performance of a proposed solar PV installation. Look out for nearby trees, buildings and anything that could cast a shadow on a solar panel array. As solar panels are installed in series it only takes one impacted panel to drop performance for the entire system.
Panel Orientation and Tilt
The best angle for your solar panels is about 26 degrees facing the sun. This is why the panels are typically mounted on a racking system. There are circumstances where it may not be possible to achieve the perfect angle but our installers work hard to ensure that the solar panels are placed in the best possible position for optimal energy gain via stands and racks to turn them to the optimal position.
System Design and Components
How large of a system can you fit on your roof space? What key components and other design elements do you need to be aware of? Our diligent team can walk you through the process and handle any questions you may have from the types of panels and inverters used to other helpful tips on how to monitor and maintain your solar panel installation.
Common Concerns About Commercial Solar Panels in Perth
Upfront Costs and Affordability
The cost of a solar panel system is relatively affordable these days and they often pay for themselves throughout their operation. If the initial capital up front is a challenge, consider the long-term benefits and savings from taking control of your energy production and consumption. Investing in renewable energy is worthwhile. Chat with our team to learn more about payment plans, special deals, and any other schemes that might assist with the purchase of a solar PV system.
System Reliability and Performance
It can be daunting to learn new technology especially when it comes to solar. The good news, though, is that it is easy to learn how to monitor and track the performance of your system. You want to acquaint yourself with the inverter, this is the machine that not only converts that direct current to alternating current but also has a computer-like interface on the display that you can use to see the performance in real time. Some inverters even have remote access tools or data loggers that you can use to check performance data from the comfort of your office. It is important to take responsibility for regularly monitoring the inverter’s output because it is these numbers that can tell you when it might be time to organise a system check-up. By checking on the number of kilowatts the system is producing on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis you can get a sense of patterns or trends and when something goes awry these numbers can help to identify what the issue may be. For those who like to number crunch, this activity can even be a bit of fun to calculate the cost savings and performance gains.
Aesthetics and Design Considerations
Does your community or industrial area have strict rules or guidelines when it comes to solar panel visibility on rooftops from the road? For branding reasons, you may prefer to have your panels installed in a location that is not visible at all from the ground. Whatever your preferences are when it comes to aesthetics, our team can advise the best solution for you.
Government Policies and Regulations
There are limitations and rules that all installers must follow concerning the safe installation of solar panel systems. If you have any questions or concerns in this respect, please contact our team for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Solar Systems
This will vary depending on the size of your property and the number of solar panels you require for your business. During our initial consultation, we will assess your property to see your eligibility. Additionally during this process, we will be able to provide expert advice on which system will be most suitable for your property.
There are a few key differences between commercial and residential solar panels. One of them being the size of the panels. On average, commercial solar panels are 96 cells in size, in comparison to residential solar panels, which are generally a bit smaller being 72 cells in size.
Installation of commercial solar panels typically involves more comprehensive planning and consideration of various factors compared to residential installations. Often, businesses wanting solar panels will require permits depending on their local area.
There are two ways of obtaining a solar rebate on a commercial solar system. This will depend on the complexity of the system you’re trying to install. The two rebates businesses are typically eligible are as follows:
Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STC’s) – Are available on properties looking to claim a solar rebate on systems which go up to 100kW. This particular rebate is worked out during the quotation process based on how much energy the system is expected to produce over a given period of time.
Large-Scale Generation Certificate (LGC’s) – LGC’s on the other hand are a completely different process. These are usually claimed on a yearly basis through the submission of solar generation reports. You will need to register your business to become an accredited power station with the Clean Energy Regulator.
At Vista Electrical Controls, we’ll be able to assist you with the process of obtaining a solar rebate for your system, whichever it may be.
This rebate is eligible for businesses wanting to obtain a system over 100kW. To begin claiming on this type of system, you will need to register with the Clean Energy Regulator.
In Australia, there are a few different ways of financing your solar system so that it doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket all at once.
Many things can affect the service life of a commercial solar PV installation. Ideally, you want a reliable, robust system that will operate long after the respective panel and inverter warranties expire. It is important to note that the panels themselves, under ideal circumstances, should function to at least 80 per cent of their rated output after about 25 or so years. Other important parts of the system, such as the inverter, generally operate for about five to 10 years but that depends on the intensity of its usage among other considerations.
It is important to remember that keeping your system tidy and clean is crucial to getting the most out of it. Similarly, regular inspections can help when it comes to preventative maintenance and dealing with minor issues before they turn into bigger problems that can potentially bring the entire system down.
Recommendations can vary depending on your specific circumstances however we do encourage regular cleaning of the panel array. Any build-up of grime, leaves, or debris can impact the overall performance of the system. How often you arrange for the panels to be cleaned may depend on how dirty they get. Sometimes a monthly clean might be too excessive whereas quarterly or bi-annual cleaning routines may be more realistic. If you prefer to clean the panels yourself stick with soft sponges and mild detergents because anything too strong might damage the panels and equipment.
In addition to cleaning it pays to have someone physically check on the appearance of the panels for any signs of cracks or other damages. Sometimes the rack mounts, wires, and isolation switches can be compromised by water ingress or even tampered with by wild animals or third parties. Prevent a major incident by staying on top of solar panel system inspections.
How often are you checking the inverter? Daily, weekly, monthly? Check it as often as possible to ensure it is working. Keep track of the performance data and call for professional assistance if you cannot isolate a potential fault.
To summarise, commercial solar PV systems do require maintenance and regular check-ups although you can run with minimal checks in place. We highly recommend regular inspections and cleaning regimes to ensure you get the most out of your investment.
For the most up-to-date and reliable information in this regard, you should contact us directly for our recommendations.
Leave this to the professionals. We source the panels and arrange everything for you. If you would like more information about the components we most frequently use we should be able to share that with you.
This would depend on your energy requirements and how large of a system you can have installed for an optimal generation. It may be possible but consider these systems are more likely to help offset costs than outright replace the energy source.
Empower yourself with as much information as possible about the subject. We find that if you are not familiar with the fundamentals, like how a system works, then you may not fully appreciate what system would work best for you. Also, by not appreciating how the power is generated and where it is redirected, you may have misconceptions about when you should use your appliances and machinery at peak times to maximise your power as opposed to unnecessarily drawing from the grid.
Vista Electrical Controls is partnered with a few reputable finance brokers who specialise in commercial financing to ensure your cash flow is not affected and your savings will pay for the solar system from day one.
LET’S WORK TOGETHERinfo@vistaelectricalcontrols.com.au
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