Did you know that the world is adapting to renewable energy at a record pace? In 2021, 295 gigawatts of renewable power capacity were added. Solar power accounts for 60% of that change.
The great thing about solar power is that there are different types of applications. There are utility and commercial solar power systems. There are also residential solar panels.
You don’t see that with wind energy. Most residents don’t have the space for a wind farm to generate power.
Do you wonder what the differences are between residential and commercial solar systems? You’re in luck because you’re about to find out.
Read on to learn more about commercial and residential solar power systems.
Size of the Project
The scope of the project tends to be much larger with about 96 solar panels. The average residential solar panel installation uses around 72 solar panels.
The solar panels on commercial buildings tend to be slightly larger. This is necessary because solar panels need to generate more power.
In addition, commercial solar power systems lend themselves to more creative installations. You’ll see commercial solar panels integrated with a building’s design.
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA has about 4,000 solar panels installed. That’s enough to power 160 homes with solar power.
Commercial solar power systems get installed in carports and other areas of a company’s campus.
With residential solar systems, you’re usually limited to solar panels on the roof of a home.
Solar Panel Installation
Commercial solar power systems have more options for installation. Some commercial installations have tracking solar panels. The panels track with the sun each day, allowing them to gather more light.
Residential solar panels are fixed to a location and rarely track with the sun.
Even though residential solar panels are smaller, they’re actually harder to install than commercial solar panels. Both types of systems often use the roof for solar panels.
The issue is that residential roofs have steep angles, whereas commercial roofs are flat. If you’re going to get solar panels for a residence, you need to make sure you use a professional installation company.
They’ll ensure that your solar panels are installed right the first time.
Tax Breaks
The good news for commercial and residential solar installations is that they’re both eligible for incentives. The Investment Tax Credit lets property owners receive a tax credit of up to 26% of the solar installation costs.
This doesn’t apply to leases or power purchase agreement installations. You have to own the system outright to claim the tax credit.
Aside from the federal tax credit, states and utility providers have incentive programs for commercial and residential installations. Check with your state and utility company to learn what they are.
The Differences Between Residential and Commercial Solar Power Systems
Solar panels aren’t created equal. There are different types of solar power. The main ones are residential and commercial solar power systems.
Commercial solar panels are larger, easier to install, and offer creative ways to install them. Residential systems are great for families who want to save money on utility bills.
Now that you know all about commercial and residential solar, head over to the home page of the blog for more awesome content today!