Frequently Asked Questions.
How long does it take to install solar panels?
On average, it takes between 2 and 4 months. This includes site assessment, permitting, design, installation, grid connection, and inspection. However, it can vary upon factors such as project size, site preparation/accessibility, and weather.
What is the typical payback or ROI with solar?
On average, the payback with solar takes 4-6 years if you only count the direct energy cost savings. Given the 40+ year life expectancy of solar panels, it means that a project will pay for itself many times over.
If secondary benefits are taken into account, such as increased revenues and better worker retention due to a greener image, almost every project pays for itself in less than a year.
Does solar work in Michigan?
Yes! Michigan is ranked among the top states in the U.S. for solar energy growth. The available sunlight is able to provide significant energy savings.
While Michigan gets less sunlight than southern and western states, the electric rates here are substantially higher. This is why having solar panels is particularly attractive in our state, especially for large energy users, such as industrial and commercial companies.
Why should my company invest in solar energy?
Investing in solar provides a multitude of benefits to your company. Solar also reduces overall energy costs, saving your company money that can instead be utilized for growth and investment. The government also provides incentives such as tax credits and rebates for companies with green energy sources, giving you an even higher return on investment. Solar is a clean energy source which reduces overall environmental impacts, making your company a contributor towards a greener planet. Being energy independent is becoming more important due to rising costs of electricity and fossil fuels; the sun is a reliable and sustainable source of energy.
Consumers and employees are seeking out environmentally conscious companies more and more. By going solar, companies look more attractive to potential clientele and employees.
Do you offer solar for greenhouses?
Yes, we have many greenhouse clients!
Do you offer solar for manufacturing?
Yes. We have many manufacturing clients!
How much does a commercial solar energy system cost?
A commercial solar energy system’s cost varies widely and is impacted by many factors, such as system size, government tax incentives, and location. The cool thing is that projects are highly modular, which enables us to be flexible and design solar arrays in line with our clients’ wishes, goals and budgets. Contact us to get an estimate!
Does solar work in Illinois?
Yes, solar can be very attractive in Illinois, and often even more if combined with batteries.
What types of buildings are compatible with solar?
Sun exposure, roof or ground space availability, and structural considerations (such as remaining roof life and integrity) are all important to consider. Most buildings are compatible with solar. Buildings with flat or low slope roofs tend to be the best, as well as building with unused ground space in proximity.
Should I include batteries with my solar?
This highly depends on your location and energy use patterns. In Michigan it is unusual for batteries to make economic sense, but it does happen. In Illinois, the addition of batteries is generally very attractive for larger commercial and industrial solar arrays. In Ohio batteries can be an attractive addition to larger solar projects as well.
Can I install solar panels somewhere other than on my roof?
Yes! We offer ground-mounted systems, both fixed-tilt and single-axis tracking systems, and carports.
How much does it cost to maintain a commercial solar system?
Due to our first class design and engineering, exceptionally qualified crew and high quality equipment, typically annual maintenance cost for a large solar array will be less than 0.5% of the initial cost
What is a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?
A solar PPA is an arrangement where a (large) energy user signs an agreement with a third party to buy solar energy from them for a certain term, for example 25 years. The third party will then finance, own and operate a solar array at the facility of this (large) energy user and provide solar energy. In this way, organizations can benefit from solar energy without needing to invest any capital.
Do you install solar for residential clients?
No.
How can I get grants for solar?
Currently, the most attractive grant for solar is the USDA REAP grant (“Rural Energy for America Program”). It pays for 25% to 50% of solar projects in rural (and sometime not-so-rural) areas. We can help you determine if you qualify and apply for these grants for you.