FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Interested in commercial solar? Here is everything you’ll need to know.

How do solar panels work?

Photovoltaic panels are composed of many silicon semiconductor cells. Elements within each cell activate electrons. Energy from sunlight drives those electrons into the electrical circuit connected to the solar panel.

How long do solar panels last?

Up to 30 years or longer

Are solar panels safe?

While any electrical system poses some level of risk, a properly designed and installed modern system following strict federal codes presents minimal risk. That’s how we operate: proper design and installation following strict codes!

Will solar provide backup power to my business in case of an outage?

Not if it is connected to the grid – then it is required to shut down during a utility power outage by NFPA 70, also known as the National Electrical Code, a standard for the safe installation of electrical systems in the US. Battery storage may be an option, as is a back-up generator. We’ll help you consider options.

Does a solar energy system need to use storage batteries?

No, but it may be a viable option. That’s where our experts come in; they’ll work with you to determine the best system for your business’s needs.

What are the promotional and marketing benefits of solar?

Using solar energy demonstrates your company’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact as well as to controlling cost for the long term. These are strong marketing messages for your company’s customers and your employees.

Does installing a solar energy system require a building permit?

Normally, yes, but different areas may have different rules. We’ll handle that.

Can solar be installed on a flat roof?

Yes, a flat roof works very well for solar. We’ll go over your facility and determine the optimum placement for a solar energy system.

Will my insurance coverage change with the addition of solar?

Usually, yes, but we’re energy experts, not insurance advisors. Please consult with your insurance provider.

What is the difference between solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems produce electricity using silicon semiconductor cells, while thermal systems use sunlight to heat water.

How do I figure out ROI/simple payback for solar?

We’ll help you with that! Genie Solar’s experts take into account many factors: the amount of electricity your company uses, the cost of that electricity (including peak demand charges), the size of the solar energy system you are considering and its cost and production, plus available incentives such as tax credits.

What incentives or rebates are available to businesses investing in solar?

The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is available to companies investing in solar energy systems, although the amount of this benefit is scheduled to lessen. Depending upon your company’s location, state and/or local incentives may also be available.

How much maintenance will my solar energy system need?

Very little, because there are no moving parts. There is a monitoring system that points out operational issues with any of the panels. In the unlikely event of a problem, Genie Solar can help you.

What incentives or rebates are available to businesses investing in solar?

The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is available to companies investing in solar energy systems, although the amount of this benefit is scheduled to lessen. Depending upon your company’s location, state and/or local incentives may also be available.

Genie Energy Ltd., (NYSE: GNE, GNEPRA) is a global energy solutions company. We supply customers in the US and Europe with electricity, including electricity generated from renewable resources and with natural gas. Through Genie Solar Energy and Prism Solar, we design, construct and install commercial solar energy solutions. We provide commercial and industrial clients with energy brokerage and consultative services through our Diversegy brand.

Case Studies

  • Commercial Solar Case Study Property Management Company
    Wiley Property Management Case Study

    The installation of the solar array on the roof of storage facility is leveraging a limited regulation called “Group Hosting”. Group hosting is a method where a group of businesses or individuals share the installation and use of a larger solar array on a single property.

  • Bake Crafters Commercial Solar Case Study
    Bake Crafters Food Company

    Bake Crafters’ commercial solar array is a remarkable example of sustainability in action. With an output capacity of 800 kW and predictions of offsetting 770 metric tons of CO2 emissions.

  • Integra Commercial Solar Case Study
    Integra Biosciences

    Integra Biosciences’ Commercial Solar project achieves 22% IRR and aligns with the company’s global sustainability goals and commitments. The two installations total 572-kW and generate enough power to offset 844,000 kWh.

  • Commercial Solar Case Study - Kraft Power
    Commercial Solar Case Study – Kraft Power Power

    Kraft Power utilized American made solar panels to install a 57.5 kW system on their roof. The new rooftop solar system, will help Kraft Power offset 100% of the electricity usage every year.

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Testimonials

Convinced to go solar by the New Jersey incentives, PCS Wireless looked at several solar companies to provide the best overall value. Genie Solar was able to design a unique system to offset the largest portion of their electricity usage. Additionally, we combine it with an exclusive financial product which minimized the cash out of pocket and maximized the return on investment. The 494 kW system was constructed in minimal time, with no impact on the businesses operations.
PCS Wireless
A provider of engine-generator systems, Kraft Power was a pioneer of “Total Energy” (Combined Heat and Power). After seeing the financial and green benefits of solar at their headquarters in Massachusetts, Kraft wanted to capitalize on the lucrative state incentives in New Jersey at a distribution center. By installing a 57.5 kW system on the roof they were able to offset 100% of their electricity usage, take advantage of the Investment Tax Credit, accelerated depreciation, and collect revenue from the New Jersey SREC program. Genie Solar made it a smooth process and limited the need for internal resources to manage the project.
Kraft Power
A premier provider of water treatment in the New York and New Jersey area, Tower wanted to go solar to save money and generate clean energy. Upon reviewing the financial benefits available in New Jersey with the SREC program and the federal Investment Tax Credit, they wanted to safe harbor the project in 2019 and construct in 2020. Buying American Made panels was an important component of the project, and by utilizing their white roof, Genie Solar was able to leverage Prism Solar’s bifacial panels to minimize the square footage needed and maximize the electricity generated. Genie Solar helped them achieve all of their goals in an efficient manner with a 44.6 kW system.
Tower Water
Cardoza had both a showroom and a distribution center with exorbitant electricity costs in New Hampshire. As a legacy business, it was important to reduce costs and protect the business from increasing expenses prior to passing it on to the owner’s children. The show room’s roof and location made it a less than ideal location for solar; but the vast roof and direct sunlight on the distribution center could generate enough solar to power both facilities, plus the owner’s house. Leveraging New Hampshire’s group host program, Genie Solar built one 99.7 kW solar array to power all three locations. The owner is now considering converting more equipment to solar and building a second array.
Cardoza Flooring
A destination nursery in rural New Hampshire, HBTSR was a long standing customer of Genie Solar’s sister company, Diversegy. After helping the business reduce electricity expenses for the past number of years, HBTSR turned to Genie Solar to reduce their rising electricity expenses over the long run. “Between the federal and NH state incentives, I was paid $8,000 to install my solar array. On top of getting money back, I am going to realize over $300,000 in savings during the 25 year warranty period of the solar array.”
House By The Side of the Road