Solar Electricity for Building Owners and Landlords

Solar electricity is not particularly difficult to understand, but some of the technical aspects may be confusing. In essence, sunlight hits photo voltaic cells (PV cells), releasing electrons that produce electricity. This electricity is fed, through an inverter, into your electric panel for use in your building. Excess electricity can be fed back to the power grid, reducing your own electric costs from the utility.

PV Cells: How they Work

Silicon photovoltaic cells (PV cells) are, in essence, a thin wafer consisting of an ultra-thin layer of phosphorus-doped (N-type) silicon on top of a thicker layer of boron-doped (P-type) silicon. An electric field is created near the top surface and, when struck by photons, a flow of electrical current is created between the two cells. A typical cell may produce 0.5 to 0.7 volts DC. Modules are arrays of PV cells, with dozens or hundreds of cells in a single module. Solar panels are a physical collection with one or more modules. The number and size of panels used forms the solar array and determines the amount of electricity produced.

The amount of electricity fluctuates based on the intensity of the sunlight. Less electricity is produced in lower light conditions, and greater amounts are produced in high intensity sunlight. The angle at which the solar panels are mounted directly impacts the amount of sunlight that reaches the field, the angle of impact and the power produced.

Rooftop Exposure for Solar Panels

Most solar electric systems are installed on building rooftops. Because most commercial building roofs are flat, there is little challenge to achieve southern exposure. Rail systems are installed on the rooftop to angle the panels to achieve optimum energy production levels. Alternatively, some buildings choose to lay panels flat across the entire roof. Our engineers can work with you to determine which layout is best for your requirements.