Key Considerations and Challenges When Adding Solar Power to Existing Buildings

10/30/2024

Renewable energy has experienced remarkable growth in the past few years with solar power emerging as a frontrunner in the transition to cleaner energy sources. In the last decade, solar power has experienced an average annual growth rate of 25 percent, and in 2023, photovoltaic (PV) solar power represented 54 percent of the United States' electrical generation capacity.  

This increase can be attributed to the various benefits it offers. One of the key advantages is lower energy costs, as a PV array can result in significant financial savings compared to traditional energy sources. Additionally, solar systems require minimal maintenance. According to The National Renewable Energy Laboratory, all modules carry industry-standard 25-year warranties. The longevity of an institutional or commercial solar system depends on four factors: climate, quality, installation, and maintenance.  

Solar energy also brings reputational benefits, as evidenced by a survey from the IBM Institute for Business Value, which found that 49 percent of consumers have paid a surcharge, averaging 59 percent, for products branded as sustainable or socially responsible. Lastly, solar energy systems positively impact the environment because they do not emit greenhouse gases and therefore generate no waste, and do not contaminate the water supply. They also allow a reduction in dependence on fossil fuels, and within one year, a solar module can produce as much energy as it took to manufacture it. 

Key considerations 

Several key factors must be considered before determining whether solar panels are the right addition to a building. To start, it's essential to consult a qualified, licensed contractor to discuss the roof's viability for solar panel installation, considering its age and any existing warranties. After confirming the roof's suitability, managers should review the following considerations in detail to make a well-informed decision about transitioning to solar power: 

Assess your budget. Decide the budget for the solar project, as this will help guide the scope of the project. Research the incentives and grants available to help make the upfront costs more manageable. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Energy (DSIRE) is a great resource for finding lists of incentives and rebates available by state. 

Assess the structural integrity of the infrastructure. Work with an experienced roofing contractor to assess the current condition of the roof, age and material, and determine if the area where the solar panels would be installed could support the weight. Also, be sure to ask the following questions: 

• What is the compass orientation of your roof? Solar modules that face directly south harvest the most energy, but east- or west-facing solar modules can also work. 
• What is the angle/tilt on the roof? A flat roof usually requires racking that tilts the solar panels at a 10-degree angle to maximize sun exposure. On the other hand, sloped roofs use racking that aligns the panels parallel to the roof’s surface. 
• Is there too much shade in this area? The less sunshade you have, the better, especially between 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 
• Is there enough square footage? Is there enough space to fit the solar modules required to produce energy equivalent to your annual consumption? Solar systems often cover only a portion of energy needs rather than supplying 100 percent of the total. 

Importance of proper installation 

Without a qualified electrical contractor installing solar power equipment, managers can run into potential challenges such as:  

• Electrical hazards: Improper installation can lead to electrical faults, such as short circuits, and possible fires or electric shocks.  
• Structural issues: If a solar panel is not mounted correctly, it can damage the roof and cause it to collapse.  
• Fire risks: Faulty wiring, poor connections, and substandard components can increase fire risk. It's essential to use certified, high-quality materials and follow best practices for installation. 
• Performance and efficiency loss: If solar panels are installed incorrectly, positioned poorly, exposed to excessive shading, or have inadequate ventilation, their performance and efficiency can be significantly reduced. 
• Lowering the ROI: An improper installation can lead to many maintenance issues and system failures, reducing the return on investment.  
• Warranty and insurance: Although solar energy systems come with warranties, some require using a licensed and certified electrical contractor. Otherwise, the warranty could be considered void.  

Choosing a qualified contractor  

• Verify credentials: Verify that the solar contractor holds the proper credentials to install solar power. Requirements vary by state, so be sure to research which ones apply.  
• Consider electrical permit requirements: Confirm that the chosen contractor has the proper equipment installation permits.  
• Take a holistic approach: Consider working with a single service provider to streamline the solar power transition and minimize coordination efforts. 
• Request details and references: Ask for information about prior solar jobs, check references, and verify insurance coverage, warranties on work and equipment, and license status. 

Understand the difference between signatory and non-signatory contractors: Contractors without union affiliation may lack electrical construction experience and safety training, which can lead to incorrect or unsafe installations. 

Incorporating solar power into existing buildings offers significant benefits, from cost savings to environmental impact. To achieve a successful transition, thoroughly assess a building’s suitability and work with a qualified electrical contractor for proper installation. Proper planning and execution are key to maximizing solar energy’s advantages and achieving a solid return on your investment. 

Powering Chicago offers a library of free, downloadable resources with tips and insights from our member contractors on considerations to keep in mind when evaluating whether solar power is right for facilities. Electrical contractors aim to ease many of the challenges of incorporating solar power into an existing building through their wealth of experience, training, and knowledge. 

Elbert Walters III is the executive director of Powering Chicago.