Solar 101: Types of Solar Systems
Solar systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Each home and business is unique and has their own elements that need to be considered when deciding to go solar. Common factors that we take into consideration when evaluating your home or business are: which direction the roof faces, the angle of the roof, and the amount of yard space available. Therefore, there are 4 main types of solar systems: Roof Mount, Ground Mount, Solar Outbuilding/Shed, and Solarscape.
Roof Mount
Roof mounted systems are the most cost-effective option. We are able to utilize the home or building as the structure to hold the panels. There are several criteria that we take into consideration when identifying if a roof is qualified for solar: size, material, shading, orientation, and the age/condition of the roof. A roof mounted system also protects and extends the life of your roof.
Benefits:
- Won’t take up any additional space in your yard
- Protects your roof
- Most cost-effective
What to Consider:
- Size of your roof
- Roof material
- Roof shading
- Roof orientation
- Age/condition of roof
Ground Mount
A ground-mounted system is a great solution for customers who do not have adequate space on their roof for a solar system, or if the building is not oriented to maximize solar production. There are 3 common options available: Standard Ground Mount, Pole Mount, and Dual Axis Trackers.
Benefits:
- Cost effective & scalable
- Set for the perfect orientation with the sun
- Easy access for cleaning/sweeping
What to Consider:
- Yard Size
- Ground Condition
Solar Outbuilding/Solar Shed
A solar outbuilding/solar shed is a fully customized structure that functions like a ground mount and doubles as a storage space. It can be used as a gardening shed, tool shed, or a small garage. A customized solar outbuilding functions like a ground mount that provides the primary building with solar-generated electricity. It is a simple all-in-one solar solution best suited for customers who want to benefit from some outdoor storage on their property.
Benefits:
- All-in-one solar solution with storage capability
- Fully-customizable
- Oriented to maximize solar production
- Efficient use of space
What to Consider:
- Yard space
- Shading
Solarscape
A solar canopy, carport, or patio cover can generate solar power while creating shade and protecting the sheltered space from the elements. It doesn’t require additional land the way a ground mount does and is an efficient use of space that is also aesthetically pleasing. The optional bi-facial modules can absorb additional sunlight reflected from the ground boosting the energy yield as well as the overall curb appeal.
Benefits:
- Fast/easy to install & scalable
- Doesn’t require additional land
- Provides coverage for cars, patio, etc.
- Option of bi-facial transparent glass modules: higher production
What to Consider:
- Yard space
- Shading
As electric vehicles become more popular, the demand for EV chargers is growing fast. Every day, more EVs hit the road, and businesses are starting to take notice. Installing EV chargers at your location is a smart move—not just to keep up with the rise of electric cars, but also to show that you’re forward thinking and environmentally friendly. We've put together a list of the many benefits to installing EV chargers!
Utility costs are on the rise and there’s no sign of them slowing down. Consumers are feeling the pressure of constantly climbing electricity rates. As inflation continues to affect nearly every industry and energy demand increases, utility companies are charging more, which means your bills are getting higher. In fact, many experts agree that utility prices will only continue to increase, making it harder for households and businesses to keep their budgets under control. NYSERDA provides detailed information on historical energy rates throughout New York State for example. These patterns follow the same trends nationwide.
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