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4 Things You Should Know When Installing Solar Energy in Schools

February 25, 2021

Thousands of American schools are opting for solar power in place of the typical power grid, thanks to the benefits this renewable energy source provides. Solar energy for schools allows them to save on electricity bills while contributing to a greener environment. If you're considering solar energy for schools, there are a few tips you must keep in mind before installation. Read on to learn more.


Ensure that the Roof is Excellent Condition


Most typical roofs found in school buildings will support solar panels. You need to ensure that the target building has pitched roofs that receive a decent amount of exposure to direct sunlight. What this implies is that most flat roofs will not do a good job maximizing exposure to the sun unless there are no tall barriers casting shadows on the building.


You should keep in mind that the amount of energy your school can capture depends on the number of hours the panes are directly hit by sun rays. You may have to talk with the school administration to consider pruning or cutting down trees that cover the target building. Solar energy for schools may require such sacrifices to work perfectly.


The Right Technology Matters


Solar energy for schools relies on different technologies. Choosing the most efficient but practical one for a learning institution is essential for a successful project. Talking with a professional can be quite useful especially if this is the first time you are dealing with solar technology.


In most cases, you will have to choose either an inverter system or classic solar panels. While weighing your options, remember that solar energy for schools should be backed by a reliable brand. You may contact similar institutions that have implemented the technology to learn about the most reliable companies.


A Trustworthy Contractor is Needed


Installing solar panels for energy production requires that all your bases are covered. The weather/climate, buildings, roofs, and technology must all be aligned to ensure that the project is successful. However, you need to make sure that the installation process is done right.


Most reputable solar energy contractors will handle the job excellently. Some of the important questions that you need to be answered include costs, performance approximation, and after-sales services. Remember, you are representing your school as an agent, you should only put your signature on a deal that you can justify to the board.


Solar energy for schools has to be done right since it determines the academic future of thousands or millions of students, depending on the size of the institution.


You Can Make Smart Compromises


In the course of the research for the best solar panels, you may realize that there are some areas where your school falls short as an ideal client. Not to worry, it is virtually impossible to check all the boxes when it comes to installing renewable resources. What matters is whether you can identify areas where logical compromises can be made.


If you notice that all the roofs in your school are flat with no space for solar panel installations, you can simply set up a solar power rack. All you need to do is identify a clear ground that receives sunshine for several hours daily and fence it. The power rack is quite efficient because its orientation can be changed depending on the seasonal changes in the sun’s patterns.


Solar power installations in the United States continue to increase yearly as more people learn about its benefits. Energy.gov approximates that such installations have grown 35-fold over the past 3 years to 62.5 gigawatts. Solar energy for schools is a great investment as it allows students to appreciate the need for a greener environment. Consequently, they can help popularize the trend once they graduate and join different industries.


If you are considering solar energy for schools and want an excellently executed project, contact us today.