The Benefits Of Having Commercial Solar PV
More and more businesses are being encouraged to use renewable energy and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is by using solar PV – but what exactly is solar PV, and what are the benefits of having commercial solar PV for your business?
That’s what we’ll be exploring today. Read on to learn more about solar PV, including the benefits of commercial solar PV and some considerations with commercial solar PV.
What is Solar PV?
Solar PV (Solar Photovoltaics) is when energy is generated using the sun’s energy. It refers to the conversion of sunlight into electricity, typically through the use of semiconducting materials (e.g. silicon).
The term ‘photovoltaics’ derives from the Greek terms photo ‘phos’, which means light, and volt, referring to electricity. Ultimately, photovoltaic translates to light electricity, which is a perfect description of what it is.
Solar panels use light to power homes and businesses across the world. It is an environmentally-friendly alternative to coal and fossil fuels. Whether placed on your roof, floor or a solar panel farm, solar panels are an effective way to generate power.
In the near future, it is thought that photovoltaic solutions alongside other renewable energy sources such as wind power and geothermal power will negate the need for fossil fuels, ultimately protecting our environment.
Commercial Solar PV Benefits
Now you have an understanding of solar PV, let’s explore some of the benefits. Solar PV has many advantages for commercial environments, from the clear cost savings to improving your company’s reputation.
Solar PV Is Environmentally Friendly
Renewable energy refers to energy sourced from natural resources that are not depleted when used. Solar PV is considered one of the best renewable energy sources – after all, the sun has billions of years of energy left in it.
Solar PV systems are an environmentally friendly option, producing zero-carbon electricity/ clean energy via the sun.
If you integrate a solar PV system into your business, you could generate around up to half of your annual electricity requirements from the sun. This, of course, depends on your location, the solar PV system you use, as well as the system size.
Solar PV Requires Little Maintenance
Much like wind turbines, commercial solar panel systems don’t require much maintenance. This tried-and-tested technology has been around for over 50 years and has been improving ever since. They have become increasingly popular in the last couple of decades, and are a great option for your home or business.
Because solar panels have no moving parts, they require very little maintenance. Most manufacturers guarantee a 20 to 25-year warranty. They are made to last over 25 years, meaning your organisation will have free electricity for a long, long time.
Another benefit is that if maintenance is required, it’s a very low cost. Most owners will only need to give the panels a clean a couple of times a year. No wear and tear is involved with solar panels, so you shouldn’t expect to spend much at all on maintenance costs and repairs.
Solar PV Cuts Electricity Bills
One of the most attractive benefits of commercial solar PV is that it can reduce your energy bills. Solar panels provide free (and clean) energy during the daytime, drastically lowering your reliance on the national grid which can save money in the long run.
Another added benefit is that if you don’t use all your solar energy, you can sell it back to the grid or store it in a solar battery system for a later date.
Solar PV Can Improve Business Reputation
Finally, introducing solar PV to your company can improve the reputation of your business. When you implement solar PV into your business, you can take advantage of green marketing opportunities.
Having green credentials can give your business a huge reputation boost. In turn, this can lead to more customers and increased client retention rates. Showing your dedication to protecting the environment can demonstrate to potential and existing customers, clients, investors and staff members that you are committed to environmental causes.
This reputation boost is invaluable, especially in the growing climate crisis. Customers and businesses around the world are being encouraged to make greener choices, and the first step you can take is to assess where your energy comes from.
Solar Energy Can Be Stored
One of the benefits of solar energy is that it can be stored for use at a later date. When solar energy is produced, it needs to be either used immediately or stored in a battery.
The batteries are charged during the daytime, and the energy is typically used at night – which can be a great way to use solar energy consistently.
This is why many people use solar energy throughout the day, but then use energy from the grid at night time. This can be beneficial as businesses tend to use much less energy in the evenings. However, if your business operates 9-5, this shouldn’t be an issue for you.
What About The Drawbacks of Solar PV?
Although solar PV is a much more eco-friendly option than traditional energy sources such as coal, solar PV has been associated with pollution.
For example, the solar PV installation process and the transportation of materials can involve the emission of greenhouse gases, meaning that these stages of the process aren’t completely green.
The manufacturing process isn’t strictly green either – some toxic materials may be used during this stage of the process, which can have an impact on the environment. That being said, this can be said about the majority of manufactured products.
Commercial Solar PV: Is it Worth It?
The pros of commercial solar PV outweigh the cons; they reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help to improve air quality.
If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint and make positive changes, solar PV is a great step to take for your business. Solar panels for your business can save you money, require very little maintenance, can improve your reputation and of course, can help to save the planet.