Solar power is growing faster than all other electricity sources in the U.S., representing 50% of the generation capacity installed in 2022. According to the latest Solar Market Insight Report, the U.S. installed 700,000 home solar systems last year, and the country now has enough solar capacity to meet the energy needs of 25 million homes. High-quality solar panels come with a 25-30 year product warranty, and homeowners paying high electric tariffs can achieve a payback period of less than six years.

 

One of the most important decisions when going solar is deciding where to install the photovoltaic (PV) array and inverter. Many homeowners choose roof-mounted systems, since they can take advantage of unused space. However, a solar carport is also a viable option: you get both a clean energy system and shaded parking areas in the same piece of land.

 

What Is a Solar Carport?

In simple terms, a solar carport is a canopy with photovoltaic panels that is installed above a parking area. Solar carports accomplish a dual function, providing a roof for your vehicles while generating electricity for your home. If you own an electric vehicle, a solar carport can also be combined with an EV charging station.

 

Solar carports work just like ground-mounted PV systems, since the racking structure is anchored directly to the ground in both cases. However, solar carports use a taller structure than ground mounting systems, since they must provide enough space to park vehicles.

 

Solar Carport vs. Traditional Solar Installation

Traditional solar installations take advantage of existing roof areas, and their racking system is attached directly to your roof structure. On the other hand, a solar carport is an independent structure anchored directly to the ground, which generates electricity while acting as a roof for your vehicles. Each type of system has advantages and disadvantages.

 

Benefits of a Solar Carport

A solar carport is slightly more expensive than a rooftop PV system of the same capacity, since you need a dedicated structure. However, solar carports also offer several benefits.

 

You can convert unproductive parking space into a renewable energy system.

Your vehicle is covered from rainfall, snow and UV rays.

Solar panels and inverters can be accessed more easily for cleaning, inspections and maintenance.

A solar carport can be designed with an orientation that maximizes the sunlight reaching your PV modules, increasing their electricity output.

Solar panels continue to be a worthwhile investment in 2024 for several reasons. Here are some key factors that make solar panels worth it:

 

1. Cost Savings: Solar panels allow you to generate your own electricity from the sun, reducing your reliance on traditional grid electricity. This can result in significant cost savings on your monthly utility bills. Over the lifespan of the solar panels, the savings can add up to a substantial amount.

 

2. Return on Investment: Installing solar panels can provide a good return on investment (ROI) over time. The savings on electricity bills, coupled with government incentives and tax credits, can help offset the upfront installation costs. As the cost of solar panels continues to decline and electricity prices rise, the financial benefits of solar energy become even more attractive.

 

3. Environmental Benefits: Solar energy is a clean and renewable source of power. By generating electricity from sunlight, solar panels reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Installing solar panels contributes to a sustainable future by promoting cleaner energy production.

 

4. Energy Independence: With solar panels installed, you can generate your own electricity on-site. This provides greater energy independence and can protect you from rising electricity prices or grid outages. Having a solar energy system with battery storage allows you to store excess energy for use during periods of low sunlight or power outages.

 

5. Increasing Property Value: Solar panels can increase the value of your property. Studies have shown that homes and businesses equipped with solar panels tend to sell at a premium compared to properties without solar installations.

 

6. Long Lifespan and Low Maintenance: Solar panels have a lifespan of 25 years or more, and modern panels often come with warranties of 25 years or more. They require minimal maintenance, with occasional cleaning to ensure optimal performance. Once installed, solar panels can reliably produce electricity for many years.

 

7. Government Incentives and Support: Many governments around the world offer incentives and support to encourage the adoption of solar energy. These can include tax credits, rebates, feed-in tariffs, and net metering programs. Taking advantage of these incentives can further enhance the financial benefits of solar panel installations.

 

While the exact financial and environmental benefits may vary depending on factors such as location, electricity rates, and available incentives, the overall value proposition of solar panels remains strong in 2024.

 

Solar mounting systems play a crucial role in the installation and performance of solar energy systems. Our solar PV mounting systems include Roof Mounting Solutions, Ground Mounting (both for Aluminum and Steel) Solutions, Solar Carport and all mounting accessories. If you are interested in our products, please contact us.