Commercial Solar panel installations
At Gridworks Energy, we specialize in helping businesses across Western Canada reduce energy costs and achieve sustainability goals with reliable commercial solar systems.
Investing in a solar system for your commercial space has several positive effects on your business, the community and the environment.
We pride ourselves on delivering Solar Energy With Integrity—a core value that drives every project we undertake. Proudly 100% Indigenous owned and operated, with over 20 years of industry experience, Gridworks Energy is a trusted partner for commercial solar installations across Edmonton and Western Canada.
Canada's Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for Commercial Solar Installations
The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) in Canada marks a turning point for businesses looking to install commercial solar systems.
This 30% tax rebate applies to the full cost of solar installation, from design and equipment to labor and maintenance.
For businesses across Canada, this means significantly lower upfront costs and a faster return on investment.
With solar energy systems offering long-term savings and the ITC reducing initial expenses, now is the ideal time to switch to solar power.
Trusted commercial Solar with Gridworks Energy
Whether your commercial property is a single-occupancy office, a large warehouse facility, or anything in between, lowering your energy costs with solar is a smart business move.
This is especially true given the constant fluctuations in the price of energy in Alberta and Canada.
Business owners that are interested in going green with energy from the sun have access to unique financing and rebate options that can result in reduced time to a positive return on investment for their installation.
Contact Gridworks Energy for more information on commercial solar systems today.
How Profitable is Solar for Businesses?
No matter how large or small a business is, while it consumes its electricity, it will benefit harnessing from embracing solar energy.
Commercial solar systems in Alberta typically have a shorter payback period due to the amount of sun the province gets on average – second only to Saskatchewan.
Because of the large amount of available roof space on commercial buildings, larger solar PV systems can be installed, making solar energy a more attractive and cost-effective option.
You can bring down, or even eliminate, your monthly electricity bills by going solar.
Enjoy more savings and decades of profitability while never having to worry about the volatility of electric prices.
You will reduce your reliance on retail electricity suppliers.
The reliability of this source of energy cannot be understated.
On top of that, you lessen your impact on the environment by switching to solar energy on a commercial scale.
Since today’s buyer is more conscientious than ever about the impact of their purchases on the world, establishing a solid green reputation is powerful.
Due to lower energy costs, commercial tax incentives on solar for businesses in Alberta, and the ability to appeal to green-minded consumers, solar just makes sense.
It really is a win-win scenario.
Why should your business go solar?
Did you know that Alberta is Canada’s 2nd sunniest province behind Saskatchewan? Edmonton in particular receives a whopping 2400 hrs of yearly sunshine!
Why throw away so much solar potential?
Still, wondering if installing commercial solar in Alberta is worth the hassle? Here are a few reasons why solar is the future for Canadians:
- You can reduce and even cut out a large part of your monthly electricity costs
- Carbon emissions are drastically cut, helping to fight climate change
- Protect yourself from electricity price surges
- Installing solar increases property value on average by 5%
- With the net metering system, you can get credit for the excess energy you produce and export back to the grid.
- Help promote sustainable energy
- The included warranty covers your system for 10-25 years, depending on the manufacturer.
- Solar panels typically have a 25-year warranty, but are designed to last much longer. You’ll make money for decades to come.
5 Reasons to invest in a Commercial solar system
1 - Certainty in an Uncertain Energy Market
Producing solar energy creates certainty in an uncertain energy market. In Alberta’s energy-only market system prices can wildly fluctuate as supply and demand determine prices.
In 2020 prices fluctuated as much as 83%, while in 2021 prices fluctuated over 300%
2 - Enhanced Economic Value
Saving money over the long term while creating an investment opportunity. Once set up, your commercial solar system will produce energy from the sun and convert this to electricity that is sold back to the electrical grid if it is not consumed by the electrical infrastructure.
This creates a cheaper alternative than buying electricity from the grid. Not only will your business be partly self-sufficient for energy, but this also creates a passive income for your business as well.
3 - Improved Community Impressions
Installing solar panels displays a commitment to the community and future generations. Being seen as a green and progressive business today has several positive effects on surrounding businesses and communities.
4 - Improved Environmental Impacts
In the past, many have said that they cannot alone change the scenario of increased pollution in the environment. Solar panels have changed this mentality of people.
Solar PV systems produce clean energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
The largest emitting sectors in Alberta are oil and gas production at 50% of emissions, electricity generation at 16%, and transportation at 11%.
By harvesting renewable energy from the sun, the demand for sources of electricity from fossil fuels is reduced while lowering the environmental impact.
5 - Solar Equipment Warranties and Maintenance
Commercial inverters typically have a warranty of up to 15 years that in many cases can be extended. While Solar Panels have a production warranty of 25 years.
Gridworks Energy will be there the whole way to help with warranty claims.
Solar panels provide the user with low upkeep. They don’t require much maintenance. Snow losses are minimal over any given year, as low as 0.6%.
Why choose Gridworks energy for Commerical Solar?
We use the best products and deliver the best service
At Gridworks Energy, we understand that businesses need peace of mind when investing in solar. We are committed to designing systems that not only deliver maximum energy output but are also built to last.
Gridworks Energy is a trusted name in commercial solar because:
- Our first PV installation was in 1998.
- We provide up to 25 years of warranty on modules, inverters and workmanship.
- We are proudly 100% indigenous owned and operated.
Gridworks Energy Commercial Solar Installation Process
Our streamlined installation process ensures minimal disruption to your daily operations. Here’s how we work with you every step of the way:
- Free Consultation and Site Assessment: Our team will evaluate your property to determine the best solar solution for your business.
- Customized Solar Design: We design a system tailored to your energy needs, optimizing for maximum efficiency and savings.
- Detailed Proposal: You’ll get a proposal that spells out all the advantages and drawbacks of the various options available to you.
- Applications: Gridworks Energy handles all required applications and permits, grants, and paperwork.
- Professional Installation: Our experienced electricians and solar technicians install your system safely and efficiently, ensuring compliance with all local regulations.
- Monitoring and Maintenance: We provide ongoing support, including energy monitoring and system maintenance, to ensure your solar array performs optimally for years to come.
Schedule a no-obligation estimate to discuss your needs, budget, and the specifics of your upcoming project.
Commercial Solar Case Study:
Edmonton Community League Solar Installation
Gridworks Energy installed a custom commercial solar PV system for the Edmonton Community League.
This project not only helped the League achieve energy independence but also reinforced their commitment to sustainability within the community.
The installation has allowed the League to save on energy bills, reinvesting those savings into vital community programs while setting an example for other organizations.
Maximize Your Savings with Solar Rebates and Incentives
Businesses in Alberta and Western Canada can take advantage of numerous solar rebates and incentives, making it more cost-effective to invest in solar power. Gridworks Energy will guide you through the available programs, such as Alberta’s Commercial Solar Power Incentives, and ensure you maximize your savings.
For what commercial solar rebates and incentives are available for your area, and how to apply, contact Gridworks Energy today.
How commercial solar power works
Each photovoltaic (PV) module in a commercial solar panel is made up of several PV cells that are connected to one another and mounted in a framework specifically designed for use in commercial buildings.
These photovoltaic cells harness solar energy and transform it into usable direct current (DC) electricity. The inverter, another essential part of commercial solar installation, changes this DC energy into AC current for usage by the different appliances and machines in your business.
Solar energy can be used to power three-phase home appliances. Each phase can be supplied by its own solar inverter, or you can use a three-phase system. Solar panels can be installed either on the roof or on a separate structure on the ground.
If you own a business, solar energy should be your primary source of electricity. If your building’s energy needs exceed what the solar panels can produce, the extra power can be imported from the grid immediately.
This is probably true during the day, when solar panels are producing electricity and there are several appliances running.
Commercial Solar Module Costs and Installation
Costs of Solar Panels have dropped 70% between 2008 and 2020 which equates to 30-45% of the total cost of a solar installation. Globally the cost has dropped by 82% for Solar PV installations since 2010.
Economies of scale play a major role in the Solar Industry, in most circumstances the larger the installation the smaller the price per watt. Prices, prior to any rebates or subsidies can range from $0.90 to $2.00 per watt.
There has never been a better time to install a solar system for your business. Contact Gridworks Energy for a free estimate.
Economics of Solar Installations
Strictly speaking, solar energy just makes good business sense. Excess energy exported to the grid yields a credit equal to the consumption price, based on Micro-Generation laws.
This allows your business to earn credits for energy that isn’t consumed and is sold back to the electrical grid. Generating solar power to offset your electricity use from the grid reduces your operational costs and saves you money.
Gridworks provides a simple, easy to understand economic analysis as part of every proposal. This analysis will be tailored specifically to your electricity rates, service type, wires service provider and solar system specifics. Helping you harvest the sun with solar to reduce overall operating costs for your business.
Common Commercial Solar Questions
How much can my business save with commercial solar panels?
Commercial solar systems can significantly reduce your energy costs. Depending on your location, system size, and energy consumption, businesses can save up to 70% on their electricity bills. Over the lifetime of the system, these savings can result in a strong return on investment (ROI), often paying off the system within 5 to 9 years.
Can commercial solar panels handle harsh weather conditions?
Yes, commercial solar panels are designed to withstand the wide range of weather conditions in Alberta and Western Canada, including snow, hail, and heavy rain. In fact, Alberta’s climate is ideal for solar energy, as cold temperatures can actually improve solar panel efficiency. Our systems are also engineered to handle the snow loads and wind speeds typical in the region.
Will a solar installation disrupt my business operations?
At Gridworks Energy, we strive to minimize disruptions to your business operations during installation. Our experienced team works efficiently and schedules the installation process to accommodate your business hours, ensuring a seamless transition to solar energy with minimal impact on your day-to-day activities.
Ready to invest in solar? Contact us today
Do you have questions about solar being the best fit for your commercial space?
Gridworks Energy Testimonials
We Install Solar All Over WESTERN CANADA
Is your community not listed below? Contact us directly for a quote.
- Glendale
- Kingsgate
- Rosedale Estates
- Deer Park Estates
- Aspen Ridge
- Westlake
- Highland Green Estates
- Riverside Meadows
Thinking of commercial Solar in Alberta?
Fill out the contact form below to get your free, no-obligation solar quote today and learn more about how installing a solar system can save your business money and get improve energy security.
The solar revolution is here!
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Common questions on solar for businesses
As a commercial building owner, how do I bill my tenants for their solar energy usage?
By installing an electric meter you can monitor how much solar energy each tenant is using and bill them accordingly.
How will solar panels affect my business' property value?
The addition of a solar system will undoubtedly increase the value of a commercial property. Not only that, investing in renewable energy gives the image of a green-friendly business and updates the physical appearance.
What happens to the solar energy that isn’t used by my commercial property?
In Canada, depending on the time of year means you’re building may not use all the solar energy generated on a daily basis. In this case, you’re able to sell the energy back to the grid, increasing the profitability of your commercial solar system setup.
Even if you don’t consume all the energy solar generates, none of it is wasted. The excess energy generated will be sold to your electrical retailer and that energy will be dispersed to your neighbors for consumption.
Will my solar panels generate electricity during cloudy, rainy, or snowy days?
The more direct and intense the UV rays from the sun, the higher the production of energy produced by solar panels will be.
There will always be electricity generated as long as there is visible light, though it will be less.
The amount of energy solar panels will produce depends on several factors, including the weather and general climate of the area your panels are installed.
Depending on the style of building, there are different variations in technology that can be used to improve the effectiveness of solar panels. Contact us to find out the best individual solution for your situation.
Do I have to go off the grid when I switch to solar?
No, it is very uncommon that you will notice any interruption when implementing solar panels for your business. The solar power systems we install are grid-connected and do not require batteries.
How much will I save on my electricity bills every month after switching to solar?
Depending on the size of the system you can create credits equal to your electricity consumption costs over the year by switching to solar. Keep in mind that most solar setups usually aren’t meant to completely remove your need for the regular electricity grid, but to reduce your reliance on it.
When do i see the ROI for my solar panel investment?
Depending on the size of the system and the amount of energy that it creates in comparison to your consumption, payoff period as well as rebates in place at the time of construction payoff for a residential system is between 7 – 15 years. Commercial systems are between 10 – 15 years. Joining the Solar Club at 25.8 cents/kwh will further reduce your ROI time by a couple of years.
How do I know if my building is a good candidate for solar panels?
As solar is a long-term investment in your property, any building with a rooftop in good condition has the potential of being a great candidate for our installations.
You can contact us for a free estimate to get more detailed information for your specific situation.
What are the benefits of using solar over standard electricity?
- Save money every year
- Increase the value of your property
- Predictable electricity rates
- Large tax incentives
- Gain an ROI quickly
- Demonstrate commitment to social responsibility
- Demonstrate sustainable practices
- Owning and generating your own electricity
- Reducing daytime peak electrical loads
- Diversifying the local energy portfolio reduces financial risk
Ready to invest in solar? Contact us today
Do you have questions about solar being the best fit for your commercial space?
