Gaining in popularity as a more sustainable source of energy, the solar industry is on track to complete its millionth solar panel system installation this year in the United States. Over the past several years, countries have been increasing their potential for the use of solar panel systems, installing capacity at an annual growth rate of 147.3% between the years 2008 and 2011. Have you ever wondered what steps go into installing solar panel systems? Here are some of the necessary procedures for installing a solar panel system.
#1. Assess and Choose a Location
The first step that businesses take when wanting to install solar panel systems is determining an appropriate site. There are several different solar panel mounting systems depending on the location. For example, some solar panels are mounted on the ground, while others are attached to the rooftop. Bear in mind that the ideal location will receive a high amount of sunlight for long intervals of time. One advantage of solar panel systems is their relatively small size compared to other forms of energy. For example, solar panel systems typically require only 10% of the space that hydro reservoirs do depending on the amount of sunlight the location receives.
#2. Design the System
Next, large companies work alongside solar panel installation experts to devise a customized mounting system that will produce the ideal results. Experts will help clients decide whether a solar panel tracker is the best course of action or if solar panel roof mounting is the optimal choice. Choosing the mounting system may be an appropriate time for costs to be considered. Compared to the energy output, solar panel systems are highly cost-effective; For example, installing the Flex solar mounting solution comes out to be under one cent per watt of energy produced.
#3. Construction of the Solar Power System
The time frame for constructing the solar panel system will change depending on the installation company contracted. A large scale project may also require coordination with other parties such as a roofing manufacturer or general contractor. Once materials arrive to the site, first the mounting system is installed, followed by the solar modules and finally the inverters.
#4. Apply for Government Incentives
One of the perks to installing solar energy solutions on a commercial scale is the possibility of obtaining government incentives from both state and federal levels. For every kilowatt of energy produced by a solar power system, 300 less pounds of CO2 are emitted into the atmosphere, 150 fewer pounds of coal are mined and 105 less gallons of water are consumed. These impressive statistics result in government striving to reward businesses that opt to clean up their energy use.
#5. Monitor the System’s Performance
Once the solar power system is installed, it is time to maintain and monitor its progress. Once installation is completed, the system must first be inspected to determine it meets all the regulations of the local codes. Upon passing the inspection, often installation companies can train clients on the maintenance of the systems. Luckily, solar power systems generally need very minimal maintenance.
As forms and sources of alternative energy such as solar power systems are on the rise, more and more businesses are cashing in on incentives to install these more environmentally-friendly and sustainable systems for generating power.