Harnessing solar energy for industrial use
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) states that energy-intensive industries use over 75% of the world’s energy demand, which includes electricity. Understandably, many manufacturing companies are looking for renewable energy solutions in response to these statistics.
With increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices and the challenge of managing rising energy costs, solar panels offer a solution. By making the most of the sun’s natural resources through solar, factories can reduce their carbon footprint and electricity bills.
The return on investment for commercial solar is often in the range of 10% to 30% or more, depending on the specifics. Installing solar panels on your factory or warehouse is an obviously beneficial investment.
Solar energy can be used in ways such as:
- Powering assembly lines, tools and equipment
- Providing electricity for lighting systems
- Supporting heating systems
- Supplying energy for ventilation and air conditioning
- Charging electric vehicles used for transportation within the facility
- Supporting backup power systems
- Integrating with smart building technologies
- Supporting sustainable initiatives and reducing your carbon footprint
What is industrial solar?
Simply referring to solar energy for industrial use, industrial or commercial solar systems range from rooftop panels to ground-mounted set-ups. The design can be adjusted to achieve the best results from the available space and meet the facility’s specific requirements.
Whether maximising energy generation within limited rooftop space or across expansive ground areas, the design flexibility of solar systems allows for optimal utilisation of resources. Solar is also a choice that lends itself to integration with existing infrastructure.
Why should I install commercial solar panels in my facility?
Incorporating industrial solar panels into your operations brings a host of advantages that go beyond just using renewable energy. These benefits impact different aspects of your business, from saving money to being more environmentally friendly.
Governments worldwide offer various incentives to lower the cost of solar energy systems. These can include tax credits, rebates, and grants. Making the most of these incentives will enable you to experience the power of solar without taking a huge chunk out of your budget.
This is especially attractive since after the initial investment is recouped, your business essentially generates free electricity, improving your overall ROI.
By adopting solar power, you will reduce your carbon footprint and also improve how smoothly your business runs. Read on to discover the many benefits that industrial solar panels can offer your company.
Make use of roof space
Industrial buildings often have large, unused roof spaces ideal for installing solar panels. By utilising this space, you can increase your renewable energy generation potential without sacrificing valuable land space.
Supplement your energy supply
Solar energy works effectively alongside your current energy sources, offering a dependable and sustainable option compared to fully relying on power from the National Grid. Including our own source of energy via solar panels will also reduce the impact of unpredictable energy price changes.
Power daytime operations
Most industrial teams operate during daylight hours when solar energy production is at its peak. Solar panels will create energy directly from sunlight, meaning you can significantly reduce your reliance on expensive unrenewable energy sources during peak demand periods.
Add value to your property
Investing in solar panels enhances the value of industrial properties by reducing operating costs and demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. Properties equipped with solar installations will often be more desirable to future buyers.
Develop sustainable credentials
Using solar energy demonstrates that your company cares about the environment. Making active decisions to be more eco-conscious in your production will help the planet and boost your brand image for customers and investors who care about sustainability.
Integrating industrial solar panels into a broader sustainability strategy aimed at achieving Net Zero emissions can help you position your business as a leader in environmental innovation.
Make the most of solar
The question of whether solar energy can power industrial operations can be answered with a clear and demonstrable ‘yes’. With its numerous benefits and increasingly affordable technology, solar power is becoming an indispensable component for creating sustainable industrial practices.
How Elementum can help
At Elementum, we have extensive experience installing solar systems for the commercial sector. Our team of solar energy specialists is dedicated to partnering with you to craft a solution perfectly tailored to meet the unique needs of your industrial premises.
From the initial consultation to the final installation, we’re committed to providing expert guidance and support at every stage of the process. We’ll collaborate closely with your team to design a system that improves your energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness while aligning with your operational requirements.
With our guidance and expertise, you can trust that your move to fitting your factory with solar panels will be smooth and successful, securing long-term benefits for your business and the environment alike.
Get in touch
We’d love to discuss how we can help your factory, warehouse or industrial premises reap the benefits of solar power. Contact our helpful team today on 01798 879947 or email michael@elementum-esg.co.uk.