Solar carports. Now there’s an interesting idea.
Built as car canopies, solar carports utilise upper roof space for solar panels. The sunlight is captured and converted into energy – an ideal solution for charging electric vehicles, though electricity generated can be used for other purposes.
This is one of many renewable technology solutions the UK government is proposing in an attempt to reform the UK energy system.
Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, shares details in the “Clean Power 2030” plan. In his words,
“A new era of clean electricity for our country offers a positive vision of Britain’s future with energy security, lower bills, good jobs and climate action.”
According to The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, this push for renewable power is projected to bring in £40 billion annually from private sector investments. While the initiative is largely based on wind farm expansion, solar carports will form key part.
Benefits of Solar Carports
Commercial solar carports have been around for a long time, with the UK solar canopy industry set on an upward trajectory. Installation benefits include:
Generating clean energy from the sun, which reduces your business’s carbon footprint
Reduction of energy bills, as solar energy produced can be used on-site
New branding and advertising opportunities
Attracting eco-conscious employees who want to lower their carbon emissions
Better utilised car park space
Revenue opportunities from electric vehicle (EV) charge-points
EV Charging Integration
In 2023, 30% of electric vehicle charging points were faulty in some areas. This left drivers frustrated at best—and stranded at worst. It’s safe to say that transitioning to sustainable travel has been a bumpy road.
Electric vehicles aren’t going anywhere, though.
With the capacity for EV charging integration, commercial solar carports will help to overcome the challenges EV drivers face (and, of course, facilitate a greener world).
When you give Perfect Sense the wheel, you’re assured of a smooth installation journey.
Main Types of Solar Carport Installation
There are two main types of solar car charging:
1. Standalone solar carports
Standalone solar carports are covered parking structures that have solar panels on the roof. These solar panels generate electricity that can be used to charge EVs parked underneath.
2. Solar-integrated EV charging stations
Solar-integrated EV charging stations are similar, but they are designed to be integrated into existing EV charging infrastructure.
Challenges of Solar Carports
You may now be picturing fleets of e-vehicles lined up under utopian sunshine. Might this solar technology hail in a new, green era?
Well, perhaps in some ways. But there are some challenges to consider.
1. Geographical Location
The efficiency of solar panels can be affected by geographical location and weather conditions, which may limit their energy-generating capacity. In regions with less sunlight, the return on investment may take longer to realise.
2. Cost of Solar Panels
Businesses must weigh the upfront investment against the long-term savings on energy bills and the potential revenue from EV charging stations. While the initial investment in installation can be significant, we are here to answer any questions you may have about renewable energy finance options.
3. Maintenance
Maintenance is another consideration as solar carports require regular upkeep to ensure they remain efficient and safe. This includes cleaning the solar panels to remove debris and checking the structural components for wear and tear.
As a multi-award-winning solar photovoltaic (PV) installer, we help you address these challenges from the get-go. From effective installation that optimises sunlight captured to regular maintenance services, we can guide you through your renewable energy journey.
The Future of Renewable Energy for Businesses
Next year, the government will call for evidence on solar panel canopies for car parks. There is also considerable potential for installing solar panels on the roofs of warehouses and factories. 20% of the UK’s largest warehouses could contribute up to 15GW of solar capacity.
Want your business to be part of it? Contact Perfect Sense Energy today to discuss your options.
