Industrial and commercial rooftop photovoltaic panels

Do commercial buildings need a photovoltaic system?

If commercial buildings in the U.S. with roofs over 5,000 square-feet were to install photovoltaic (PV), or solar, arrays, they could potentially provide enough energy to power nearly 60 percent of the total commercial electricity demand. Therefore, having a PV system is not a necessity but could significantly contribute to powering commercial buildings.

Why should you consider a rooftop solar system?

When considering a rooftop solar system, it's crucial to remember that the roof's primary function is to protect the building and its contents from the elements. Installing a rooftop solar system is a consideration worth making since the roof system should be designed to have an equivalent or longer lifespan than that of the PV arrays.

What are the benefits of rooftop solar PV?

Environmental Benefits: Rooftop PV generates clean energy which offsets grid-supplied electricity, the majority of which is produced by fossil fuel-burning power plants. The implementation of rooftop solar PV will result in reduced carbon emissions due to a cleaner energy supply.

Can a business install solar panels on a roof?

Commercial solar systems are specifically designed based on a business’s energy consumption and/or available space to install PV panels. While some businesses might have rooftops with much sun exposure, others could be limited and it may not be profitable to install solar panels on the entire roof.

Is a PV roof system a risk?

A significant risk in installing a PV roof system is that the life expectancy of the PV system exceeds that of the roof. Replacing a roof with installed PV arrays may be cost-prohibitive. Therefore, aligning the life expectancy of the roof with the PV system makes financial sense and is best roofing practice.

How many acres of rooftop solar installed at the port of Los Angeles?

Cover Photo: Fifty acres of rooftop solar are installed at the Port of Los Angeles. Review different types of photovoltaic (PV) arrays and the pros and cons of each approach. Describe how roof system design and materials contribute to the long-term success of a PV array installation.