The Challenges and Benefits of Installing Solar Panels on Big-Box Buildings and Parking Lots

Solar Panel Installations on Big-Box Building Roofs

Many big-box buildings have embraced the green energy revolution by installing solar panels on their roofs. These flat roofs provide a vast area for solar panel installations, which can significantly reduce the building's carbon footprint and energy costs. However, these installations are often hard to see from the ground due to the flat nature of the roofs, making the environmental efforts less visible to the public.

Despite the ample space, existing buildings come with their own set of challenges. Air conditioners, air circulation systems, elevator penthouses, and staircases already occupy significant roof space. This clutter complicates solar panel installation, requiring careful planning and sometimes additional structural support to accommodate the new load.

The Complexity of Installing Solar Panels Above Roof Systems

When the existing roof space is cluttered or insufficient, one solution is to install solar panels on scaffolds above the roof systems. However, this approach is more expensive due to the additional materials and labor required. The cost factor can be a significant deterrent for many businesses, especially those operating on tight margins.

Moreover, the structural integrity of the building must be assessed to ensure it can support the additional weight of the scaffolding and solar panels. This is particularly crucial in regions with heavy rain or snow loads, which can further stress the building's structure.

Solar Panels in Parking Lots: Pros and Cons

While roofs are generally preferred for solar panel installations, parking lots are another viable option. However, they come with their own set of challenges. Parking lots often receive less solar light due to shadows cast by surrounding buildings and trees. Running cables in parking lots is also more complicated; they cannot be laid on the ground and must be insulated against potential floods.

Despite these challenges, solar panels in parking lots offer unique benefits. They can serve as advertisements for stores, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. In regions like New Mexico and Arizona, covered parking with solar panels is fairly common, providing shade and reducing the heat island effect.

Cost and Regulatory Challenges

One of the significant barriers to large-scale solar installations is the cost. For instance, Arizona State University spent $22 million on their solar-covered parking. Each state has different regulations for connecting solar arrays to the grid, which can affect the return on investment. Larger installations often require more inspections and licenses to be classified as "power generators," adding to the complexity and cost.

In northern regions like Montana or North Dakota, solar arrays are less cost-effective due to less intense sunlight. Additionally, existing big-box buildings may not support the additional weight of solar panels and air conditioning units, especially with rain and snow loads.

Design and Structural Considerations for Parking Lot Installations

Parking lot installations often need cantilevered designs with thicker columns to withstand windstorms, snowstorms, and torrential rains. These structures must also accommodate overheight vehicles like tractor trailers, cube trucks, RVs, and firetrucks, which adds another layer of complexity to the design.

Trenching in parking lots for power wires adds significant expense and time, disrupting service during construction. Until recently, the high cost of solar panels meant that the return on investment was not always favorable. However, advancements in technology and reductions in cost are making solar panels a more viable option.

Future Trends and Opportunities

New buildings are increasingly incorporating solar panels as part of their design, making it easier and more cost-effective to implement. Schools in California, for example, have received grants to install covered parking with solar panels, generating significant power and keeping cars cool.

As technology continues to improve and costs decrease, the adoption of solar panels on both big-box building roofs and parking lots is likely to increase. While there are challenges to overcome, the long-term benefits of reduced energy costs and environmental impact make solar panels a worthwhile investment for many businesses and institutions.