Green or Sustainable construction is a hot button topic these days. In our blog discussion on making choices that make $ense, solar options seem to be a more and more popular choice today for a renewable energy source. As always we are a proponent of planning. In the planning stage you will determine if this is the right option for your project and budget. Doing your homework will save you time and money later in the project. Below are good steps to follow as a rule of thumb to ensure solar is right for your project.
STEP 1 - FEASIBILITY:
· Feasibility analysis – Be sure this will fit the OPR (Owners Project Requirements)
· Preliminary proposal – Pricing is another key component
STEP 2 - FINANCING:
· Financing options, if needed (e.g. leases and power purchase agreements)
· Non-tax based incentives: Incentives offered through local power companies.
STEP 3 - SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN:
· System Design-Have a strategy in place
· Project planning: Working with all parties involved in the project (perspective and feedback)
· Analysis, scheduling and planning-tools
STEP 4 - PROCUREMENT AND INSTALLATION
· Procurement of materials-Do some investigating and pricing
· Solar Panel Installation-Use reputable firms with the qualifications to do the project
· Inspections
· System commissioning and testing
STEP 5 - OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE
· Training of facilities personnel (system monitoring and maintenance)
· Administration and execution of all warranty coverage
· Field service and technical support, if required
Following these steps and knowing what the ROI (Return on Investment) will be, eliminates the unknown and unpleasant surprises. A significant portion of the commercial solar system's cost is paid for by taking advantage of state rebates, incentives and the 30 percent federal solar tax credit / grant and accelerated depreciation which makes this a good time to consider going solar if it fits.
Gabriele Medley-Harry, LEED AP BD&C
Director of Sustainable Construction
HICAPS, Inc.
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