Should PV be in your business plan?

Most people know that solar energy is environmentally attractive--and that photovoltaic or PV systems have made great technical strides over the past 10 years.

But PV systems can be economically attractive as well, especially for commercial users.   Costs are coming down and the efficiency of converting sunlight into electricity is going up--enough so that PV energy costs in California are now comparable to energy supplied from the utility power grid.

The central coast of California is one of the best locations in the world for PV, not only because of the amount of sunshine, but also because the cost of grid-supplied electricity is relatively high.   Another favorable factor is the large rebate (financed by utility users) available for PV systems, and the availability of net metering.

Business owners and commercial users are uniquely positioned to capitalize on other important factors:

• PV's electrical output matches well with patterns of energy use in commercial buildings, promoting effective management of electricity demand.
• PV applications are now being integrated directly into building roofs, envelopes, and surrounding spaces--and these technologies are evolving rapidly.
• PV systems provide a visible symbol of a company's commitment to the environmental and economic health of their community and the world.
• Business-owned PV systems convey tax advantages, such as accelerated depreciation and a federal income tax credit.
• PV systems can be configured with backup capabilities, to prevent blackouts from interrupting operations.

Replacement Value and BIPV

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)--those that are integrated into the building's structure--offer a range of dynamic opportunities for designing energy systems for buildings.   And while it's clear that BIPV will be the trend of the future, the technologies are being used right now.

PV atrium systems, with their semi-transparent glazing, are not only beautiful, they are also perhaps the highest-value application for BIPV.   These existing technologies can show payback periods of fewer than 10 years.   PV power is now build into roofing shingles and tiles that are both functional and easy to install.   PV awnings and carports capture the sun's energy while providing shade from its heat.   PV greenhouse windows power businesses while sheltering plants.   All this adds up to one solid fact: PV and commercial buildings are a natural match.

The replacement value of fixed PV arrays--especially vertical ones--can be added to their energy/demand value.   A PV system may do double duty as a window or curtain wall and an energy source.

Applied Solar Energy can help you reduce your energy costs and decrease your reliance on far-away energy producers.   Call (831-333-1919x20) to find about the economic, environmental and productivity benefits of applying solar energy to your business today.