OT: solar panels

[rwsaunders]

The DOE is a good resource for financial modeling and for other links to making an assessment if solar makes sense for you. Imho, without the credits, it’s marginal and in many cases dependent on where you live.

We are working on a number of higher-ed projects where the 48C program essentially subsidizes alternative energy systems (solar, geothermal, EV stations, etc.) for non-profits, similar to a tax credit. Without the program, solar is a no-go, when you also take into account issues such as upsizing structural systems to address the additional load (3#/SF), upgrading to a reflective roofing membrane and upsizing the thickness of the membrane to match the life cycle of the panels (25 years). I.e, why install a panel system with a 25 year life cycle on a roof that needs to be replaced in 10 years?

FWIW, we are installing a 162MW system on an academic facility roof in Chicagoland and the panel system cost is $2/MW ($324,000) with an additional $100,000 to address the engineering, steel and roofing membrane upgrades, and modifications to the switchgear. ROI break even is 9 years taking into account the $127,000 rebate. System efficiency is 84% taking into account that the panels are bi-facial and the reflective factor of the white roof membrane improves the production level of the panels by 15%. Life cycle of the system is 25 years.

It’s a complex process to say the least, and the team consists of the MEP engineers, MEP contractors, CM, accountant and solar specialists.

https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/ho...-photovoltaics

https://www.energy.gov/infrastructur...it-48c-program