Are Solar Panels Right for My Commercial Property?
If you own a commercial property, you are likely always on the lookout for efficient ways to save money. Businesses are electing to install solar panels more and more frequently, but most commercial property owners find the process overwhelming.
It might be difficult to figure out whether solar panels are right for your property. Furthermore, with so many types of panels available, it is tough to know which to choose and how to finance them.
The first questions to ask yourself as a commercial property owner are:
• Does your area get enough sun for solar energy?
• Do you have an open area on your roof or on the ground where solar panels can be installed?
• Is your roof in good condition and capable of handling the extra weight of solar panels?
• Do you have someone who can oversee the installation and maintenance of solar panels for you?
In Southern California, we are quite lucky to have year-round sunshine and relatively steady weather patterns. This environment makes most businesses and properties perfect candidates for solar panel installation.
Most reputable solar companies will continue maintenance and troubleshooting long after they help you select, purchase, and install solar panels. This means that having a dedicated contact to help facilitate maintenance calls is important. You may also want to have your roof inspected beforehand, keeping solar power installation in mind.
It’s no secret that solar power will save you money. Not only does solar power lead to reduced operating costs, but it also allows you to lock in energy costs for many years to come. A fixed energy price will enable you to more accurately predict billing, cash flows, and much more.
On another note, solar power might make you attractive to customers and clients who are environmentally-minded. Green branding and marketing are wins for you, as it allows you to showcase your dedication to reducing greenhouse emissions and pollution, and it actually helps your company make a positive impact that you can feel good about.
How Do I Choose the Right Solar Panel Installer?
Choosing the right company to install your solar panels is the trickiest part of the process. Research companies thoroughly, and never be afraid to ask questions, request pricing up front, and establish clear lines of communication. A good solar company will address your needs as a commercial property owner and will suggest panels that will work for you and your budget.
The next round of questions to ask yourself – and to ask the solar companies you are considering – are:
• Should I lease, buy, or obtain a loan for solar panels?
• Are there any government incentive programs that I can take advantage of once my panels are installed?
• What are the top solar panel brands, and is it important for me to insist on these top brands?
• How hands-on do I plan to be during this process?
• Will my solar panels require special configurations?
Once you have laid out the budget and the basics, consider how you will pay for your panels. Some solar companies will assist you in finding a loan, and larger companies may carry several leasing options that you can consider. Also, research incentive programs for commercial properties that utilize solar energy – and be sure to ask solar companies whether they can help guide you through the process of navigating and applying for incentives once the installation is complete.
Some solar companies advertise well known, top quality solar panel brands, while others prefer assisting customers on a case-by-case basis. If you have a particular brand in mind, make sure to let companies know.
Additionally, you can be as involved (or uninvolved) in the solar panel installation and maintenance process as you would like to be. Some solar companies, particularly larger ones, have no issue with allowing commercial property owners being incredibly involved – or absent during the process. If your property requires a special configuration such as a heavily sloped roof or significant shade concerns, that could impact your involvement in the process from start to finish.
What Should I Do Once I Have Made My Decision?
Once you have considered solar panel installation, brands, types, and everything that we have laid out above, you can begin narrowing down solar companies. The Renewable Energy Partners team is dedicated to providing cost-effective solar panel solutions to businesses, organizations, and other commercial properties throughout Southern California. We would love to be your full-service solar company. Give Renewable Energy Partners a call today to learn more about how we can help you: 855-519-6633, or visit our site: https://renewepi.com/.