Commercial Solar Feasibility Study: Step By Step

By Author: Shweta
Total Articles: 3
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1. Solar Generation Potential Assessment

NY Engineers can analyze the photovoltaic generation potential at any project site, using official weather databases and solar simulation software. You will get an accurate calculation of how much electricity can be generated each year, based on actual site conditions.

Our design team can also rule out issues that limit solar generation, such as shading from surrounding buildings. They will identify any conditions that may hinder the performance of your solar array, and propose effective solutions from the start.

2. Electrical and Structural Assessment

Our engineering team will analyze the existing installations to determine if they are suitable for a commercial solar array. They will conduct an assessment of electrical installations and local grid capacity, identifying any upgrades necessary before going solar. A structural assessment is also provided in the case of rooftop installations.

NY Engineers can also analyze the feasibility of adding an energy storage system to your commercial solar array, and determine the optimal storage capacity if that ...
... is the case.

3. Detailed List of Permitting Requirements

NY Engineers will identify all the requirements that must be met before your commercial solar array can be installed. These include construction codes, environmental regulations and grid interconnection requirements.

If your project is located in New York state, we can help you complete the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) and Coordinated Electric System Interconnection Review (CESIR).

The SEQR is required for solar arrays covering more than 10 acres, or 2.5 acres in agricultural districts. Rooftop solar arrays are exempt from this requirement.

The CESIR is generally required for projects over 50 kW, which may have a local impact on the power grid.

4. Identifying All Solar Incentives Available

There are many types of financial incentives for solar photovoltaic systems, which increase your return on investment. These include grants, rebates, tax exemptions, tax credits, and low-interest or zero-interest loans. The benefits available in New York state include the NY-Sun Megawatt Block Program and Retail Energy Storage Incentive Program from NYSERDA.

At NY Engineers we have ample experience with solar incentive programs and their requirements. We offer commercial solar designs that qualify under local and national incentive programs, and our team can handle the application process for you.

5. Professional Solar Design

Your commercial solar project is designed according to all applicable codes and regulations, while considering the requirements of incentive programs. Our experts can determine the optimal and layout for your photovoltaic array, based on a careful assessment of electricity needs and the solar radiation available at the project site.

6. Design Approval and Permitting

Our experienced design team ensures a quick project approval with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Having an approved solar PV design in a short time is critical when applying for incentive programs that have limited budgets.

7. Effective Project Management

NY Engineers is not only a design and consulting firm. Our team can manage your entire project throughout its life cycle, including the bidding and construction stages, and O&M once your solar array is operational.

Solar Power Benefits for Commercial Building Owners

Solar Power Adapts to Any Property
Solar panels can be installed on almost any area with adequate sunshine, and they can adapt to the site conditions of almost any commercial building. At NY Engineers we design solar power systems in any configuration: rooftop, ground mount, canopy, carport, etc.

Compliance with Climate Laws
If your local government has renewable energy mandates or building emission limits, solar panels can help you meet them. In the case of New York City, a commercial solar system can increase your building energy grade under Local Law 33 of 2018, while helping you avoid penalties for emissions under Local Law 97 of 2019.

Boost Corporate Image and Attract Tenants
When a large solar array is visible on a commercial roof or carport, it sends a clear message that your company is lowering its environmental footprint. If your building includes commercial spaces for rent, potential tenants will associate the solar array with lower energy costs and emissions.

Long-Term Energy Savings
High-quality solar panels have a service life of more than 25 years, and they have simple maintenance requirements. There are no moving parts subject to mechanical wear, and solar panels only need regular cleaning to maximize the sunlight reaching their photovoltaic cells.

When a commercial solar array is engineered properly, and financed with a low-interest loan, the energy savings achieved are typically much higher than the loan payments.

Increase the Asset Value of Your Buildings
A building that is capable of generating its own electricity becomes a more valuable asset. Solar panels can operate for more than 25 years, and future increases in electricity tariffs only make them more valuable.

Thanks to the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) you can write off the cost of a commercial solar array as depreciation over a 5-year period, and this becomes a tax deductible expense.

Avoid Volatile Energy Prices
Once the initial investment is covered, the costs associated with owning a commercial solar array are very low. Annual operation and maintenance costs are typically less than 1% of upfront capital costs. You also need new inverters after around 10-12 years, but they only represent around 6% of total PV system costs.

On the other hand, electricity tariffs are volatile and unpredictable. In the 12-month period between August 2021 and August 2022, US electricity prices were up by 15.8% on average. This means the savings achieved by a commercial solar array increase over time.

Commercial Solar PV Cost Proposal
1. Quick Design and Approval
Project designs by NY Engineers are completed 50% faster, while having an 80% first-time approval rate with local building authorities. Start your project before material prices increase further, and claim solar incentives that have limited funding before they run out.

2. Customized Solar Design
Your commercial solar PV design will have the optimal capacity and layout, based on the site conditions of your building or facility. We can design any system configuration to take advantage of the space available: rooftop, ground mount, carport or canopy.

3. Meet Local Codes and Regulations
NY Engineers can easily adapt your solar PV system design based on local building codes, zoning requirements, laws and regulations. Permitting requirements like the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) and Coordinated Electric System Interconnection Review (CESIR) are met without delays.

4. Optimize Costs and Get Incentives
NY Engineers has financing experts in-house. We combine solar incentives and low-interest loans to minimize upfront costs, while increasing your ROI. We have ample experience with technical requirements from NYSERDA and other program managers, ensuring your project qualifies for their incentives.