Commercial solar
More and more New Zealand businesses are choosing to power their premises with built-in commercial solar power generation. Discover how a ZEN Energy solar power system could be the right choice for your enterprise.
Solar power for your business
Types of commercial solar systems
Hybrid
Hybrid commercial solar power systems are typically installed with solar power batteries, allowing a business premises to continue to be powered by the free, green energy generated by the panels even when the sun isn’t shining. If the batteries are full, the excess can be sold back to the grid for energy credits.
Grid Tied
Grid-tied commercial solar power systems supplement your existing main grid energy connection, allowing your business premises as a whole to run partially on clean, green solar power generated by panels on the roof. Any excess can be exported back to the grid for solar energy credits.
Commercial Solar Projects
View some of our commercial solar success stories
As a business leader, you have the opportunity to harness the power of the sun and revolutionize the way your company consumes energy. By embracing the benefits of commercial solar power, you can design a system that perfectly aligns with your business' power needs, and scales to match your ambitious goals.
Imagine a future where your enterprise operates entirely off-grid, free from the constraints and costs of traditional energy sources. With the right investment, this dream can become a reality, and you can pave the way for a sustainable, profitable, and independent future for your business.
Why use solar
power for Your business?
Every New Zealand business can benefit from investing in solar, and in a myriad of ways:
Power savings: Instantly slash your business’ utility costs by generating your own electricity, allowing you to put that cash towards growth instead.
Climate action: Help lead New Zealand towards its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2035
Corporate profile: Got a green-conscious company? Truly walk the talk by investing in clean, green energy for your business
Tax savings: Solar power panels are considered a depreciable asset, providing multiple tax advantages alongside its power price offset advantages.
Inflation hedge: Solar power provides long-term budget certainty in the face of fluctuating electricity prices. Avoid budget blowout from unexpected power price increases.
Reinvent How
You Do Power
Talk to our team and get solar for your business
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frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of installing a solar energy system for my business?
Installing a solar energy system for a business can provide numerous benefits, such as:
- Significant cost savings on energy bills
- Long-term financial returns on the initial investment
- Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon footprint
- Providing energy independence and resilience during power outages
- Attracting environmentally-conscious customers and employees
- Enhancing the company's reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking business
- Tax incentives and other financial benefits offered by government programs.
What types of businesses can benefit from solar energy systems?
Businesses of all sizes and types can benefit from solar energy systems. Whether you run a small storefront or a large warehouse, solar can help you reduce energy costs and increase energy efficiency. Some examples of businesses that can benefit from solar energy systems include retail stores, manufacturing facilities, hotels, schools, hospitals, and farms.
How do commercial solar energy systems work?
Commercial solar energy systems work similarly to residential solar energy systems but on a larger scale. The system is comprised of solar panels, inverters, and a mounting system. The panels collect sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. The inverter then converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used to power your business. The mounting system holds the panels in place and can be installed on a variety of surfaces including rooftops, carports, and ground mounts. The electricity generated by the solar energy system can either be used on-site or sent back to the grid for credits.
What are the components of a commercial solar energy system?
A commercial solar energy system typically includes solar panels, an inverter to convert the DC power generated by the solar panels into usable AC power, racking or mounting systems to secure the panels, electrical wiring, and monitoring systems to track energy production. Additionally, some systems may also include energy storage components, such as batteries, to store excess energy for later use.
Can I sell excess energy produced by my commercial solar energy system back to the grid?
Yes, it is possible to sell excess energy produced by a commercial solar energy system back to the grid, depending on your location and the regulations in your area. This is known as net metering, which allows you to receive credits or payments for any excess energy your system produces and feeds back into the grid. These credits or payments can then be used to offset the cost of any energy you consume from the grid when your solar system is not producing enough energy to meet your needs.
How much energy can a commercial solar energy system produce?
A commercial solar energy system's energy production capacity can vary depending on factors such as the system's size, location, and weather conditions. Generally, a well-designed and efficiently sized system can generate a significant portion of a business's energy needs, and some businesses can even generate excess energy that can be sold back to the grid. A professional and qualified solar energy installation company like ZEN Energy can help your business determine the appropriate size and capacity of a system for your specific energy needs.
What kind of return on investment can I expect from a commercial solar energy system?
A commercial solar energy system can provide a significant return on investment, with savings on electricity bills and potential revenue from selling excess energy back to the grid. The exact ROI can vary depending on factors such as the size of the system, the cost of electricity in the area, and available incentives and rebates. However, many businesses can expect to recoup their initial investment within several years and continue to save on energy costs for the life of the system.
What permits and regulations are required for a commercial solar energy system installation?
Permits and regulations required for a commercial solar energy system installation vary depending on the location and size of the system. In general, the installation must comply with local building codes and electrical regulations, as well as any zoning or land-use requirements. It's important to consult with a professional and qualified solar energy installation company like ZEN Energy who can guide you through the permitting process and ensure that your system is compliant with all applicable regulations.
Will a commercial solar energy system require any maintenance or repairs?
Like any other equipment, commercial solar energy systems may require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This may include cleaning the solar panels, checking the electrical components, and ensuring that the system is producing energy at the desired level. The frequency of maintenance will depend on factors such as the size and complexity of the system, location, and weather conditions. Repairs may also be necessary if there are any malfunctions or damage to the system. It's important to work with a reputable and experienced solar energy installation company like ZEN Energy who can provide maintenance and repair services.
What is the lifespan of a commercial solar energy system?
The lifespan of a commercial solar energy system can vary depending on a number of factors such as the quality of the components used, the amount of maintenance performed, and environmental conditions. In general, most commercial solar panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, while inverters may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years. It's important to work with a reputable solar installer and perform regular maintenance to ensure the system operates at its optimal performance and lifespan.