Interest in solar energy continues to grow throughout the United States, and in response, many contractors are making solar power systems available in their design and construction projects. Advances in solar equipment and the positive response to this efficient and sustainable energy source show how contractors can use solar energy to improve business while providing green services to their clients.
Both commercial and residential construction can benefit from the inclusion of solar panels in the building’s design. At one time considered an add-on that might be incorporated after the building was completed, solar energy equipment is becoming more accepted as a standard part of new construction.
Reporter Adam Groff, in an article on the Construction Global website, reports information from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) that identifies a 34 percent increase in solar power usage in the United States from 2013 to 2014.
Groff also noted that the SEIA reports a total of 650,000 residential and commercial solar installations in the United States, with almost 200,000 new installations made in 2014. The solar power systems produce more than 20,000 megawatts of energy, which can provide enough power for more than 4 million homes.
Solar power can typically slash a home’s energy requirements by a substantial percentage. In some cases, solar energy systems can produce all the electrical energy a home needs while leaving excess energy that can be sold to local utility companies.
Commercial and institutional use of solar energy installations is also increasing, Groff reported. Business and institutions that require large amounts of energy can benefit significantly from solar power systems that reduce costs and provide a steady supply of power. Three of the most common applications are in:
- Offices
- Schools
- Hospitals
Rooftop installations of solar panels are the most common type of solar power systems in these facilities.
Construction industry professionals turn to Construction Monitor for the most up-to-date information on construction trends and developments around the country. Contact us today for more information on how contractors can use solar energy as a benefit for their customers and as a way to increase business and overall profits.
I love the idea of getting solar panels installed to help encourage a more steady supply of power like you mentioned. I would loose business is the power went out so getting solar panels sounds like a good backup plan. It may be worth looking into benefits from the government for installing solar panels as well.
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