Service - Pre-installation site feasibility assessment
Understanding your existing electrical and structural infrastructure is crucial to a seamless installation. Outlining site-specific constraints early will put you in the best position to discuss potential solutions with installers and limit issues and unforeseen costs during installation.
Investing in a solar power system is a significant decision, impacting both your environmental footprint and financial portfolio. Ensuring you achieve the best return on investment starts with understanding your site's capability to host a solar installation. Our Pre-Installation Site Feasibility Assessment is an essential service aimed at identifying any early-stage constraints and enabling smoother interactions with solar installers.
The Need for Site Assessments
A well-executed site assessment prevents your solar power system from becoming an expensive mistake. An inadequate understanding of your site's electrical and structural characteristics can lead to ineffective systems, financial losses, and even safety hazards.
What Does the Assessment Cover?
Solar Access
Unhindered access to sunlight is critical for efficient energy production. Shading from neighboring structures or trees can significantly undermine your system's efficiency and economic viability.
Roof Condition
Solar systems come with a lifespan of around 25 years. It's imperative that your roof is structurally sound to host the additional weight of solar panels and their mounting systems for that duration.
Tilt and Orientation
In the southern hemisphere, a north-facing roof is generally preferred. The roof’s angle, ideally between 15 to 40 degrees, also affects your system's efficiency.
Electrical Infrastructure
Your existing electrical system must be compatible with the new solar installation. In some cases, upgrades may be needed to handle the increased energy output.
Regulatory Compliance
Local building codes, zoning laws, and permit requirements must be identified and adhered to, ensuring your installation is legally compliant.
Feasibility and Cost-Benefit Analysis
An overall feasibility study examines the practicability of your intended solar project. This includes considering the scale of your energy demands relative to your roof's size and estimating the cost implications of your solar investment.
Going Beyond Standard Checks
Structural Integrity
Our assessment goes beyond the conventional checks to include a thorough review of your roof’s structural conditions, including its strength, material, and overall condition.
Weight Concerns
Solar panels themselves may not be overly heavy, but along with the mounting hardware, they can add significant weight. Typically, solar panels weigh between 15 to 25kg per square meter.
The Outcome
Upon completion, you'll receive a comprehensive report covering all the evaluated factors, thereby helping you make an informed decision. The report will include insights into the optimal system size, potential challenges, and recommended solutions.
Conclusion
The Pre-Installation Site Feasibility Assessment is not just a box to tick; it’s your first step towards a successful and efficient solar installation. With accurate data and professional insights, you’re equipped to make decisions that optimize both the financial and environmental benefits of going solar.