Photovoltaic solar cells generate electricity when the sun hits the solar panel. For flat roofs, the panels are mounted on a ballasted racking system, which typically does not require roof penetrations. Instead, the panels are held down by the weight of concrete ballast blocks. Once the solar panels generate electricity, the power is routed through conduit to the inverters, which convert the power from DC into AC. That AC power is then connected into your buildings main electric service in the utility room.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Solar pv systems generate a predictable amount of electricity on your roof, which translates into a predictable stream of cash value for your company. Whether you use the energy to power your building, or sell the power back to the utility, the annual value of the electricity is up to $2.00 per sq ft per year.
The federal government offers tax credits and accelerated depreciation for solar pv systems which can cover up to 60% of the cost of the project. The Investment Tax Credit is a direct credit on your federal tax return. The amount is 30% of the total cost of the project, with the opportunity to receive an additional 10% if the project qualifies as a made-in-US “domestic content” project. In addition, the cost of the solar project qualifies for accelerated depreciation under the IRS’s MACRS rules.
Good news! The federal government now allows non-profits to receive a cash payment for the value of the ITC for their solar project. This feature of the ITC is known as “Direct Pay.”
Yes, the State of Connecticut offers a 20 year cash incentive, paid quarterly based on how much energy you produce. The program is called Non-Commercial Renewable Energy Solutions (NRES). Eversource and United Illuminating are directed by the State to manage the NRES program. In February and August of each year, the utilities open up an application period to apply for the NRES incentive. “Winners” of the NRES incentive are usually notified in May and November.
The perfect roof for solar has large areas of open space. The racking we use for solar panels doesn’t allow us to build on top of typical roof obstructions like HVAC units, roof vents and skylights. We are also concerned with the deadweight load the roof can handle. This is assessed by a professional engineer, who compares the deadweight load of the solar panels with the capacity of the roof superstructure, based on the characteristics of the racking system.
No, it’s not too late! The federal investment tax credit remains until the end of 2027.
The key attributes that makes a building good for solar include open space on the roof, and a roof which is relatively free from shading by trees and other obstructions.
Solar carports are a great option! The carport provides shade in summer and winter, making for a more pleasant parking experience.