Guide to Choosing Your Commercial Solar System

Solar systems have become very popular in Australia in the last few years. With the continuous increase in electricity prices and a decline in solar system prices, it is the perfect solution to cut down the extra expense and save the environment. 

Especially if your business is operational in the daytime and has long working hours, like 9 am – 5 pm, you should consider buying solar panels. However, understanding the basics and buying the right solar system isn’t easy and can turn into a hectic affair.

To save you from this tedious job, refer to our guide on buying your commercial solar system curated by our experts. 

How to choose the right solar system?

Choosing a commercial solar system depends on many factors like energy consumption, hours of operation, available space, financing, and more. So here are some key points to consider when buying a commercial solar system:

1. Business operating hours and available space

Before installing a solar system, you should consider how well you can utilize the sunlight. We recommend investing in it if your operating hours fall between sunrise and sunset so that you can make the best use of available solar energy. 

Similarly, it’s essential to choose whether you want to utilize the roof space or use the vacant grounds. Your decision should rely on various factors like exposure to sunlight, available space, and avoiding areas covered under shade. If needed, our team can do a free assessment of your office space and tell you the best solutions suited for your business. 

2. Energy consumption level

Before choosing any solar panel, measuring your total energy consumption is essential.

For example, if you have a small-scale business, you can get commercial solar systems smaller than 30kW. This setup can produce 120 kWh of electricity per day.

However, commercial solar arrays beyond 30 kW require approval for connection to the electricity grid and a specialist in commercial solar systems for installation.

3. Consider cost and tariffs.

The cost of a commercial solar system depends on the solar panel’s quality, business location, solar availability, and installers. But to give you a basic idea, for a solar system of 13.2kW, you need to invest around $7,500+ in Australia. You can also get a power optimizer or microinverter, which will add approximately 20% extra to the total bill.

Some commercial properties sign a tariff contract with their electricity provider as it helps save more on bills and conduct everyday operations.

Talk with our team to understand how shifting to solar energy will affect your tariffs.

4. Monitoring and maintenance services

A solar system needs regular monitoring and maintenance for better efficiency and durability. We can help you monitor your energy consumption and solar energy generation to find out how you can save energy.

5. Consider financial rebates

Businesses with less than 100 kW commercial solar systems can claim an upfront discount known as STC (Small scale Technology Certificate) rebates. The value depends on the solar power generation in the next nine years.

However, solar systems greater than 100 kW can be eligible for LGC (Large scale Generation Certificates). Instead of a one-time payment, you will get paid yearly according to your electricity generation, but you will not get any purchase discounts.

6. Select the right solar power brand

With the increase in solar systems’ demand in Australia, there are many brands in the market, and it can be challenging to choose the right one. It’s better to go for a trusted brand that may cost a bit higher but will pay off in the long run.

We can help you understand how to choose the right solar panel and battery for your business. Some of the trusted brands we deal in are Jinko, Trina, LG, Canadian Solar, Sunpower, etc. We recommend opting for a solar brand with more than ten years of experience that offers at least 25 years of warranty. 

7. Hire verified installers

Whenever you choose any solar system installer, it is crucial to trust companies that are:

• CEC approved,
• have 5+ years of experience,
• have approval for installing 30 kW or more size commercial solar systems,
• and have good reviews from other customers.

We meet all the quality standards required by authorities and have a team of experienced professionals who ensure a hassle-free installation process for your commercial solar system.

Conclusion

Choosing the right commercial solar system is a big deal, especially when you want to save more. The above points will help you make the right choice and avoid problems in the future.

If you need any further assistance in understanding how to choose a commercial solar system, connect with us. Our team is just a call away.

Contact Solar Specialist