16 Jun 2017
If you’re considering solar for your business, you may be wondering how much the installation process will affect your business’s productivity.
While many organisations shy away from investing in a solar PV system due to misconceived notions about power outages and construction difficulties, the truth is installing solar is not a hugely complicated process, even on a large scale (100kW+).
To lessen the impact solar will have on your business, and to make the installation process as seamless as possible, it’s important you understand the basic steps involved in going solar.
Step 1. Find a Reputable Solar PV Retailer
Solar Market can help you find the right installer for your business by connecting you with three independent solar providers.
Our unbiased team has experience working in all areas of the solar industry and only refer you to reputable providers who are CEC accredited.
Seeking proposals from multiple providers enables you to engage with different installers, allowing you to secure the right system for your business.
Step 2. Quotation and Agreement
After choosing your preferred installer and system, you’ll enter into an agreement with your solar provider. Ensure you read the Terms and Conditions of your contract carefully before signing.
For a list of questions to ask prospective solar installers to ensure you’re choosing a reputable provider, click here.
Step 3. Obtain Building or Council Permits
In order to install solar at your business, you may be required to obtain a building or council permit. To ensure there are no delays with installation, we recommend you seek advice from your local planning body as soon as you begin your investigation into solar.
We also recommend you consider the following factors carefully, in consultation with your solar provider:
- Your state’s codes and building regulations
- If your building is heritage listed
- Your building’s classification under the Australian Building Code, which could impact approval requirements
- The size of your solar PV system and where it will be installed on your building
- The weight of your system and the structural integrity of your building
- What, if any, electrical and/or building work will be required
It’s also worth noting that installing a solar PV system at your business can be difficult if you do not own the building and are simply a tenant. In this case, we recommend seeking your landlord’s permission before engaging with solar providers for quotes.
Step 4. Understand Your Grid Connection Requirements
Unfortunately, connecting your solar PV system isn’t quite as simple as plugging in any old appliance. We recommend you speak with your Network Operator early on in the solar process so you can understand exactly what your grid connection requirements are.
In addition, a Connection Agreement with your local DNSP (Distribution Network Service Provider) is a national requirement for connecting a solar system to the grid. Your Connection Agreement will outline the terms of your connection, and requires the business owner’s signature.
Because no two connections or systems are exactly alike, the technical requirements may vary substantially system to system, and create higher than expected costs. By engaging with your DNSP from the outset, you will be aware of these costs.
If you are eligible to receive a feed-in tariff for any exported solar electricity, you’ll also need to negotiate an Export Agreement with the DNSP.
Your solar provider will be more than happy to assist you with all of these requirements, with reputable installers already having experience working with the DNSP.
Step 5. Apply for Government Rebates
Under the Federal Government’s Renewable Energy Target, solar installations under 100kW are eligible to receive small-scale technology certificates (STCs), while installations over 100kW are eligible to receive large-scale generation certificates (LGCs).
Both certificates create a significant financial incentive for businesses and homeowners to install solar.
Your solar provider will help you apply for the government rebate you are eligible to receive.
For more information on these incentives, click here.
Step 6. Installation
Depending on the size of your system, installation may take anywhere from just one day to several weeks.
Thankfully, when completed by professional, knowledgeable installers, the process should only cause minimal complications.
If your building does not have much roof space, the screwing in of mounting frames may cause a noise issue due to lack of insulation.
The installation of your inverter(s) may also cause a noise issue depending on where they will be positioned in the building.
And finally, when your solar PV system is ready to be connected to the mains, your business’s power will need to be switched off. However, this should take no longer than one hour, and your installer will try to work around your schedule in order to minimise the disturbance to your business.
To ensure going solar is as seamless as possible for your business, it’s important you understand all the steps involved.
With minimal to no noise issues depending on your building’s setup, plus negligible power outage periods, going solar will not require most businesses to close their operations, making the long-term benefits fair outweigh any short-term inconveniences.
To find out what solar could do for your business, click here to request three proposals from local solar installers.
