A1A Solar answers your commercial solar questions

You may have heard that many Fortune 500 companies are going solar. The benefits to clean energy are certainly numerous; however, taking your company solar may seem overwhelming. A1A Solar is ready to help you invest in your company and begin reaping the rewards of a commercial solar energy system. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the process of going solar. How do solar panels work? Solar panels absorb sunlight with photovoltaic cells and use an inverter to change direct current power to alternating current power. This conversion creates electricity for commercial use. How long do solar panels last? Standard solar panel warranties last 25 years. A typical central inverter will last between 10 and 15 years, meaning you’ll have to replace it at some point during the lifetime of your solar panels. What is commercial solar and why should I have it? Commercial solar is a solar power system for companies. It’s different from residential solar in that residential applies to individual homes. The benefits of commercial solar occur on a much larger scale than residential solar. The main reason companies invest in commercial solar is to save money in the long run. The annual energy cost for a business grows by about 3% each year. When you no longer have to pay that fee, you end up saving a great deal of money. It typically takes six to seven years to begin to see a return on your investment. In addition to the money your company saves on energy bills, with a solar energy system, you receive a 30% tax credit with accelerated depreciation. Another important reason companies invest in commercial solar is to show their customers their commitment to helping the environment. Solar panels do not emit pollution into the atmosphere. Is going solar feasible for small and medium companies? Most definitely. More and more small- and medium-business owners are going solar as they realize the financial opportunities that come with it. Don’t let the size of your company be the deciding factor. There’s always an opportunity to save money for your business in the long run, no matter the size. How do I know what size system to select for my company? First, decide how much electricity your company uses. Having a 12-month usage history and an idea of when you use your energy can help you figure this out. Assess your budget for the solar panel system and the remaining electricity bill. One of our solar professionals can help you pick a system that fits your company’s needs. What is net metering? Net metering allows you to use generated electricity anytime you want, instead of right when your system generates it.