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