:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/solar-rural-flkr-56a02c903df78cafdaa06a33.jpg "Best solar panels for small business 2023")
In 2023, the benefits of solar power are more evident than ever, and businesses of all sizes are taking advantage of this renewable energy source. But with so many options available, which solar panels are best for your business? In this article, we take a closer look at the best solar panels for business in 2023 to help you make an informed decision and take the first step towards a more sustainable future.
What are solar panels and why are they good for your business?
Solar panels are devices that capture the sun's energy and convert it into electricity. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular due to its efficiency, economy and environmental benefits. For small businesses, solar panels can achieve the following goals: significantly reduce energy costs, improve the business image, and provide access to discounts and incentives.
Solar panels can help small businesses save up to 100% on their electricity bills. For example, a small retail store that uses 10,000 kWh of electricity per year can save about $2,000 annually by installing a 6-8 kWh solar panel system. In addition to saving costs, solar panels can also improve a company's reputation and attract environmentally conscious customers.
In addition, small businesses may qualify for various tax credits, grants, and rebates when investing in solar energy. The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows companies to deduct up to 30% of the cost of installing solar panels on their federal taxes, while many states and localities offer deductions of their own. For example, the California Solar Initiative offers cash rebates to small businesses that install solar panels, and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers incentives to small businesses.
The five best solar panels for small businesses in 2023
Our solar experts have compiled a list of the five best solar panels for small businesses in 2023. Read on to find out which panels stand out and why they are the best choice for your business.
JA Solar Deep Blue 550 Watt
The JA Solar 144-cell 550-watt panel is great for businesses small and large. The effective unit efficiency is 21.3%. Three bypass diodes and a half-cut cell reduce vignetting effect. The board supports a preload of 5400 PA. Rails and half cells increase panel life and current flow. It's built to last over 25 years and comes with a 12-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty.
Trina Solar Vertex 670W
Vertex solar panels from the Chinese brand Trina Solar provide up to 670 watts of power with an efficiency of up to 21.6%. This is one of the most powerful panels on the market, just a few of these items can provide so much solar power for a small business . It features multi-frame technology and enhanced protection against PID and microcracks. The low cost of this board provides the best return on investment.
Genco Solar Tiger New 615 Watt
Tiger Neo is a range of panels from Jinko Solar. Tiger Neo models achieve up to 615W output power under standard test conditions. The efficiency of this unit reaches 22%. The board contains 156 n-type half-cut cells and is almost as big as the previous boards on our list: 97 by 44.6 inches. The Tiger Neo comes with a 12/30 year product and manufacturing warranty. The board retains more than 87.4% of the product for up to 30 years.
Helios solar phone 690 watts
Helios is a double-sided panel from another Chinese brand, Phono Solar, and it is one of the best solar panels for small businesses . This would be a good choice for those looking to build larger systems. The most powerful panel in this range has a power of 690 watts. The active rear provides up to 25% more performance. Considering the bi-directional amplification, you can get up to 828 watts of power from a single panel.
Suntech Ultra V 555W
The Suntech Single Sided Ultra V Panel is an excellent solar panel for professional installers. Ultra V delivers up to 555 watts of power with an efficiency of up to 21.5%. It performs better on cloudy days and doesn't get very hot in operation. After 25 years, this panel retains more than 84.8% of its original capacity. There is also a double sided version of this pattern for those who fish for profit.
What are the types of solar panels?
There are several types of solar panels on the market, each with its own features and characteristics.
- Monocrystalline Solar Panels: The most efficient solar panels are made of high purity silicon. They are known for their glossy black appearance and can produce more electricity per square foot than other types of panels.
- Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Modules with cells made of several crystals of silicon rather than one such as monocrystalline. It is slightly less efficient than monocrystalline panels. However, they are more affordable and popular with home and business owners.
- Thin Film Solar Panels: Lightweight and flexible panels are ideal for curved or uneven roofs. It is less efficient than crystal panels, but may be more economical in some cases.
- Double-sided solar panels: Generate power from both sides and are usually installed to increase light exposure. They are more expensive than conventional panels, but they can produce up to 30% more energy per year.
- Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) panels: These panels are designed to blend with the building structure and can serve as a structural component of the building. They can be more expensive than traditional panels, but they can provide a more aesthetic option for certain applications.
When choosing the type of solar panel, it is important to consider the specific needs of your project. Polycrystalline panels may be cheaper, but monocrystalline panels are the better option if you have limited ceiling space or a tight budget. Likewise, if you are looking for an innovative design or have unique installation requirements, thin sheets or BIPV panels may be the right solution for you.
Average cost of solar panels for small business
The average cost of solar panels for a small business can vary widely depending on a variety of factors such as system size, location, and available incentives. On average, small businesses will pay $2 to $3.50 per watt of solar panels, which means a 10-kilowatt system could cost $20 to $35,000, excluding incentives.
Other factors that can affect the cost of solar power for a small business include the type of panels used, installation fees, and ongoing maintenance costs. In addition, the availability of incentives such as tax credits and rebates can significantly reduce the total cost of a solar panel system. In some cases, more than 50% can be saved!
It is important to note that while the initial cost of solar panels can be high for a small business, the long-term savings in energy costs and the ability to make a profit by selling excess power back to the grid can make it a worthwhile investment.
