Solar Energy Systems

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

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Commercial Solar Solutions

If you’re a business owner who wants to take advantage of the benefits provided by installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system on your commercial building, you’re likely aware of the long-term cost savings and tax credits associated with such a system. However, there is more to consider when making the decision to have a solar energy system installed on your commercial building. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about PV systems for commercial roofing.

Adequate Space

A PV system should be appropriately sized to the building it’s installed on. If your commercial building has a newer roof with vacant space, you might consider using that space to install solar panels as a way to produce your own electricity at a lower long-term cost than that of the utility grid. A feasibility study can be conducted to discover the best configuration possibilities and optimal performance.

Legal Requirements

Properly complying with the regulatory standards set forth for PV system installation is a necessity in order to avoid any problems that could arise due to noncompliance to important legal requirements. These parameters vary based on the geographical location of the building receiving the installation. One thing to note is that once the decision is made to invest in a PV system, it can take a few months to obtain a utility approval, which is a legal requirement before installation begins.

Tax Credits & Cost Savings

In the U.S., installing a solar energy system makes your business eligible for the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) as well as favorable tax implications through accelerated depreciation. These tax savings can help to offset the expense of the initial installation.

While installing a PV system can have a higher upfront cost, the savings from lowered utility bills, tax savings and other incentives (such as the ability to sell excess power to the utility grid) can substantially decrease the burden of typical install prices. Additionally, there are 100% financing options available to help remove the barrier to entry to the solar energy market. It’s important to remember that the cost of the installation diminishes when you consider that the typical solar energy system will last at least 25 years.

Warranties

It’s important to know the difference between warranties. The performance warranty guarantees a specified level of efficiency of the panel during its useful life, while a product warranty covers the quality of the panel itself as it comes from the manufacturer. Northeast Industrial Roof’s solar energy systems use best-in-class components that come equipped with performance warranties as well as workmanship warranties provided by the electrical installer.

Solar Energy System FAQs

Q:
What are the most beneficial aspects of choosing a solar energy system?

A:
The benefits of going solar greatly outweigh the choice to forgo switching. Our favorite benefits include the improved cash flow due to the cost savings that a PV system can provide, a reduced carbon footprint and the ability to appeal to customers who favor “greener” business practices.

Q:
Will the installation of solar panels cause my roof to leak?

A:
A properly-installed PV system will not cause any roof leaks or any other damage to your roof. While extremely rare, roof leaks can happen if the system is not properly installed or your roof is old or incompatible with solar panels; however, in the latter two cases, we will not attempt installation on a roof that we’re not 100% certain is able to support the system. Our installers are highly specialized in solar energy system installation, so incorrect installation is not typically an issue. Furthermore, we warranty our workmanship and guarantee your satisfaction on every roof we install.

Q:
Will installing a PV system invalidate my roof’s warranty?

A:
Generally speaking, a properly installed system using the approved materials and attachment method that has been professionally inspected post-install will not cause any problems with your roof’s warranty.

Q:
Is financing available for both the solar energy system and the roof itself?

A:
Yes. Most lenders that we work with offer financing options that include the roof and the PV system together.

Q:
Can I include the cost of the roof in the basis for the Investment Tax Credit (ITC)?

A:
The IRS does not typically approve roofing costs to be included in the ITC basis unless the roof was a structural improvement required for the installation of the PV system. Northeast Industrial Roof is not authorized to dispense any financial advice and we recommend that you consult with your tax advisor for more information.

Schedule a Consultation

Our Boston roofing team has the experience, the resources and the expertise to get your commercial roof done right the first time. Give us a call at (781) 874-0248, or submit a request for a free estimate online.