Commercial Energy Audits Focus on Solar Photovoltaics

Feb. 12, 2011 - PRLog -- Commercial energy audits determine 1) how and where a building uses energy, 2) how energy bills may be reduced; and 3) how energy conservation investments can contirbute to a healthier, happier environment. In pursuing those goals, commercial energy audits are taking a closer look at solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.

Solar PV is increasingly attractive because 1) panel costs continue to decrease (below $2.00 per watt for large systems), 2) they produce clean renewable energy, and 3) because many customers and employees consider solar PV symbolic of "going green" and a commitment to sustainability.

Still, solar PV panels are one of the more costly sustainable energy options. However, when they are integrated with other green energy technologies, they may make a great deal of financial sense.

Advantages of Solar Photovoltaic Panels

Taking a closer look, many energy auditors acknowledge that solar PV provides:

   * A twenty or thirty year supply of clean, renewable energy.

   * A substantial contribution to reducing greenhouse gases and just plain carbon  
      pollution.

   * An important contribution to America's economy and national defense through
      decreasing demand for foreign oil.

   * Reliable power in remote locations, far from the grid.

While the economics may not yet be perfect, installing solar PV just may be the right thing to do. Solar PV may also be an attractive investment if it adds value to real estate. In commercial and industrial applications this may or may not be the case.

Disadvantages of Solar Photovoltaic Panels

Of course, with advantages come disadvantages. In the case of Solar PV, disadvantages worth considering include:

   * The cost of solar PV versus other energy conservation options (many other options
      may provide more bang for the buck).

   * Covering a commercial roof with solar PV panels makes space unavailable for other
      uses and equipment.

   * Depending on financing and other contractual arrangements, a solar PV
      installation may create a lien on the building.

   * Solar PV installations are heavy. Some rooftops are not designed to accommodate
      them.

For now, the bottom line on solar PV seems to be . . . if a commercial energy audit indicates that they are financially viable (generally in combination with other technologies), then integrating solar PV into your energy efficiency project well may make sense.

For more information on commercial energy audits visit http://www.BigGreenZero.com.

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The Phoenix based energy audit team at Big Green Zero works with commercial building owners to reduces energy bills (often by 30% to 50%). The proprietary BGZ energy audit process is ASHRAE compliant and draws from extensive U.S. Dept. of Energy research.