Commercial Solar Installers North Hempstead

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Solar Installations

How do I choose the right solar panel type for my business?

The best solar panel type for your commercial project depends on several factors:

• Efficiency: Higher-efficiency panels produce more energy from the same amount of sunlight, but they may have a higher upfront cost.
• Space Availability: If you have limited roof or ground space, higher-efficiency panels allow you to maximize energy production.
• Aesthetics: Consider the visual appearance of the panels and how they integrate with your building or surroundings. Monocrystalline panels tend to have a more sleek and modern look, while polycrystalline panels have a more traditional blue appearance.
• Cost: Polycrystalline panels are generally more budget-friendly, while monocrystalline panels tend to be more expensive.
• Durability and Warranty: All types of solar panels are designed to be durable, but some manufacturers offer longer warranties or better performance guarantees.

A qualified Commercial Solar Installers can assess your needs and recommend the most suitable panel type for your project.

Are there different types of net metering policies?

Yes, there are different types of net metering policies implemented by utilities, including:

• Full Retail Net Metering: The most favorable policy, where you receive full retail credit for excess solar energy sent to the grid. This means you get the same price for the electricity you sell back as you pay for the electricity you buy from the utility.
• Time-of-Use (TOU) Net Metering: The value of the credits you earn varies depending on the time of day you export electricity to the grid. Higher credits are typically offered during peak demand periods.
• Net Billing: You receive a lower rate for excess solar energy than the retail rate you pay for electricity.
• Feed-in Tariffs (FITs): A separate meter is used to measure the solar energy you export to the grid, and you are paid a fixed rate per kilowatt-hour for this energy, which may be different from the retail electricity rate.

The specific net metering policies vary by state and utility company, so it's essential to understand the regulations in your area.

What happens to my commercial solar system during a power outage?

During a power outage, a grid-tied commercial solar system without battery storage will automatically shut off. This is a safety feature to prevent electricity from backfeeding into the grid and potentially harming utility workers. If you have a battery storage system integrated with your solar system, you can continue to have power during an outage. The battery will discharge stored energy to power essential loads in your building, providing backup power during grid disruptions.

What is the lifespan of a commercial solar system?

Commercial solar systems are designed for longevity and typically have a lifespan of 25-30 years or more. The panels themselves will continue to generate electricity beyond that timeframe, but their efficiency may gradually decline. Inverters typically have a shorter lifespan of 10-15 years and may need to be replaced during the system's lifetime. Reputable solar panel manufacturers offer warranties that cover defects in materials and workmanship for a significant portion of the system's lifespan.