Benefits and Risks of Rooftop Solar Panels for Commercial Properties

As solar rooftops become an increasingly common addition to commercial properties, businesses need to be aware of the pros and cons of this technology. While they can provide significant financial, environmental and reputational benefits, they can also present various risks, such as fire and structural hazards. Theu can also be susceptible to damage from several sources.

This article examines the benefits and risks of rooftop solar panels for commercial properties and offers strategies for businesses to mitigate those exposures.

The Benefits of Rooftop Solar Panels

Solar panels installed on commercial rooftops offer numerous benefits including:

• Cost savings and tax benefits. Solar panels can reduce monthly electricity expenses while costing relatively little to maintain. Additionally, businesses that install solar panels may qualify for tax relief.
• Reduced carbon emissions and other environmental benefits. Solar panels can generate power without using fossil fuels. This can reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.
• Improved reputation. By using solar energy, a business can show it commitment to sustainability. This can improve its reputation within the local community and among current and potential clients and employees.
• Protection from power cuts. When combined with a battery storage system, solar panels can continue generating electricity during power cuts, reducing business interruptions.
• Increased property value. Commercial properties with solar panels may be sought after due to the cost of savings and contemporary aesthetic they offer. These factors may increase a property’s value, which can help offset installation costs.

The Risks of Rooftop Solar Panels

Although solar panels offer several benefits to businesses, there are risks to consider, including:

• Fire hazards. Faulty installation. Electrical malfunction, overheated components or arcing can all create fire hazards. Additionally, solar panels fires can produce toxic fumes and by products.
• Susceptibility to weather related damage. Since rooftop panels are exposed to the elements, they are vulnerable to weather related damage from strong winds, hail and heavy snow.
• Structural implications. Solar panels can add weight to the top of a building. This can put stress on the roof, making it vulnerable to sagging, leaks or in an extreme case, collapse.
• Fall risks. The risk of rooftop falls may increase with solar panels as walking spacing is decreased and roof anchor points may become obscured.
• Theft, vandalism and animal damage. Solar panels can be an attractive target for thieves and vandals, and they can be susceptible to animal damage.

Mitigating the Risks of Rooftop Solar Panels for Commercial Properties

As business weight the pros and cons of rooftop solar panels, they should consider the measures they can take to mitigate some of the risks associated with them, including:

• Choosing quality materials. By selecting top quality panels and materials, businesses can reduce the risks of fires and malfunctions. It is also essential to consider the combustibility of the materials to reduce the chances of fire and their toxicity, which may be of particular concern when the panels reach their end of life of if they catch fire.
• Evaluating the Rooftop. Before installing solar panels, a professional should evaluate the roof’s structure and condition to ensure it can handle the weight of solar panels. The rooftop and insulation materials should also be examined to determine if they present additional fire risks.
• Hiring certified installers. Having the solar panels installed by certified contractors is crucial for reducing risk. These professionals can help ensure the systems are installed following the manufacturers instructions and any applicable building regulations.
• Conducting inspections and maintenance. Using certified specialists to perform regular inspections and maintenance can help businesses identify and remediate issues before they evolve into more significant problems.
• Taking weather protection measures. Removing overhanging trees or installing guards on the solar panels can help reduce to chances of weather related damage. Selecting solar panels that are rated to withstand severe weather is also advisable.
• Taking fall protection measures. Solar panels should be installed with fall protection measures in mind. For example, there should be space available to navigate around them, contractors should be made aware of the panels layout, and roof anchor points should remain accessible.
• Utilising fire prevention and suppression systems. Along with considering the combustibility of the materials and ensuring the system is properly installed and maintained, other fire prevention methods should be considered, such as arc fault detection services. Fire detection and suppression systems should be in place, sufficient roof access should be available for firefighters and a fire risk assessment should be conducted after installation. Informing local fire services of the solar panels and having an emergency action plan to respond to fires and the toxic fumes they produce are also essential.
• Implementing security measures. Security systems (eg locks and alarms) can help deter theft and vandalism.
• Considering the installation of animal guards. Animal or critter guards can help protect the panels from wildlife. These devices should be installed according to the manufacturers instructions.
• Insurance considerations. Businesses should work with a licensed insurance professional to review their insurance coverage and ensure their policies cover solar panels and their associated risks.

Conclusion

Solar panels offer an array of benefits, but businesses also need to be aware of their related risks and how to mitigate them.