EIGHT REASONS WHY SMALL BUSINESSES NEED SOLAR PANELS

Just 90 minutes of the sun’s energy has the potential to power the whole planet for a year.

Your roof space, or some unused land, could have solar panels generating electricity for you, even producing surplus power for export. This article looks at some of the many advantages of solar (photovoltaic, or PV) panels.

Energy cost savings

The number one reason to fit solar panels as a smaller business is to lower energy bills.?Renewable energy also gives you the ability to forecast your power bills in an uncertain market. The opportunity is to not only to save money on your lighting, cooling and machines, but also the possibility of charging electric vehicles with solar to power your fleet.

Environmental commitment?

Global warming is undeniable, and you are likely to have a commitment to reducing your carbon footprint. Zero carbon solar power generated on-site is a goal to incorporate into your company’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards. Solar panels on your roof indicates to your customers that your business cares about its environmental impact. It shows your support for clean energy policies, investing in the planet and sustainability.

Easy to maintain

Solar panels have no moving parts, lasting upto 50+ years – performance will degrade over the years but they will keep generating electricity. They are easy to maintain, requiring a wash off now and again (no need for cleaning chemicals, water is fine). How often they need cleaning will depend on how dusty the environment is, and normally an annual clean is enough.

Expert advice

Solar companies who install systems for clients will offer an assessment of your needs and the potential benefits of a PV system early on with no pressure to take it forward, if the figures don’t stack up for you. Contact our experts here.

Export excess power

If a grid connection is available, or you have power-hungry neighbours, there is a possibility to export power surplus to your requirements, earning you money back!

Affordability?

The cost of solar equipment has dropped significantly in the last two years, making solar for small businesses more affordable than ever before. If the capital expenditure for the initial purchase of ?a solar panel system is outside your budget, then Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are a great option. Under this agreement, solar panels are placed on your roof at no cost to you, with the company billed for the energy used at a significantly lower price.

Energy independence

In 2023, the Russia-Ukraine conflict drove up the cost of gas and energy around the world, increasing the use of renewable energy in national supply as well as?the private sector. Further global conflict continuing to affect trade routes and supply chains will likely increase costs. Having your own independent energy supply allows for predictable energy bills, as well as an uninterrupted power supply. A solar power system that includes battery storage reduced your reliance on the grid still further, allowing you to store energy generated in the day.

Improved solar technology?

Even without direct sunlight, solar panels can still produce power – so whatever the direction of your roof it is still worth investigating the potential for a roof-mounted solar power system.?Improved solar?technology?means that – even if you have been told your site is not?suitable for solar in the past – we might still have a system that will work for you.

If you think you don’t have sufficient roof space or potential land, then ask us about Third Party Agreements. Olympus Power are experienced in developing agreements where, when not enough space isn’t available, additional power could be generated for you off site.

If you’d like to know more Olympus Power can help you and your small business benefit from these eight reasons to use solar power, get in touch with our team.