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Ready to ShipForty kilowatt systems are employed in large enterprises and commercial buildings. For these systems, though, the type of solar panel used significantly impacts the solar system's price.
Here are the four main solar panels used in a 40kw solar system:
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
These panels are made from pure silicon. Their atomic structure gives them the flexibility to be designed into different sizes, shapes, and layouts. Thus, they are more efficient (about 22%) than other solar panels. As such, they can fit in homes with limited roof space.
The higher efficiency also means that monocrystalline solar panels are pricier than other types. A 40kw solar system that uses these panels costs about $25600 to $43200. Due to their high price, they are often used in premium projects.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are made by melting fragmented silicon pieces. The melted silicon pieces are then poured into square molds. Once solidified, the silicon is cut into pieces and the solar cells fashioned into a panel. This fragmentation process leads to less purity and efficiency (about 18%) compared to monocrystalline solar panels.
However, polycrystalline solar panels are less costly, making them a more viable option for large solar systems like 40kw. A 40kw solar system that uses polycrystalline panels costs about $22700 to $38300.
Bifacial Solar Panels
These solar panels generate energy from both sides. On the other hand, traditional panels only generate energy from one side (the frontal side). Bifacial panels are made from either monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar cells.
When made from monocrystalline panels, bifacial solar panels are more efficient and generate more energy (about 22%) compared to when made from polycrystalline panels. Conversely, polycrystalline bifacial panels are less efficient (about 18%). What’s more, the solar panels efficiency depends on the surface they are mounted on. The more reflective it is, the higher the energy generation.
This makes bifacial solar panels ideal for big spaces. With lots of reflected surfaces, like water bodies, they are also suited for tropical regions.
A 40 kilowatt solar system using bifacial solar panels costs about $26400 to $44000.
Thin-film Solar Panels
Thin-film solar panels are constructed with photovoltaic materials, rather than silicon. The thin layer of this material allows it to be flexible. The flexibility makes installation on uneven surfaces and integration into building materials easier.
However, the flexibility and non-silicon material comes at a cost—thin-film solar panels are less efficient (about 12-14%) compared to silicon solar panels. That said, due to their less bulk and light weight, thin-film solar panels are ideal for large solar systems.
Further, a 40kw solar system with thin-film solar panels costs about $22400 to $37600.
Office buildings
With an average roof space of 5000 square feet, office buildings are ideal installations for a 40kw solar system. They generate enough solar energy to power over half their electrical consumption. The massive energy output saves them on energy costs, increasing profit.
Usually, they use this solar energy to power common office appliances, HVAC systems, and lighting. Reducing reliance on the grid not only cuts costs, but also protects the business from expensive grid fluctuations.
Manufacturing facilities
Manufacturing facilities have stet operational costs, because of high energy consumption. Hence, a 40kw solar system is installed to reduce these costs by generating energy to power machines, production lines, and HVAC systems. This not only saves them money, but also reduces their carbon footprint.
Retail stores
These outlets have lots of roofs where a 40kw solar system can be installed. Thus, they easily generate vast amounts of solar energy and offset their electrical consumption. This is especially helpful for stores in prime locations, as they can save money on energy bills.
Warehouse and distribution centers
Forty kilowatt systems can also be installed at warehouses and distribution centers. The vast expanses of flat rooftops are perfect for solar panels. These systems generate huge quantities of solar energy, which offsets the high electrical consumption of these centers. This saves them on energy costs.
Agricultural facilities
Agricultural facilities like farms have huge electrical appliances that a 40kw solar system can power. These systems help reduce the reliance on non-renewable energy sources. This mitigates operational costs and gives them more sustainable energy.
Food and beverage facilities
Forty kilowatt systems can be installed in large food production and brewing facilities, as there are lots of spaces on the rooftops. These systems provide an eco-friendly energy source that can help offset the cost of electricity used for production, cooling, and storage. Thus, they save a lot of money.
Solar panel type
The type of solar panels used for a solar system significantly impact its price. Different panel types have varying costs based on how efficient they are and the material they're made from. For instance, monocrystalline panels are more costly than polycrystalline ones.
This is because they are more efficient and take up less space. On the other hand, polycrystalline panels are less costly, but due to their lower efficiency, they require more space. Since 40kw solar systems are generally installed in commercial buildings, thin-film solar panels are often preferred.
Though they are less efficient than silicon solar panels, they are inexpensive and their flexibility makes them more suitable for large installations. Further, bifacial panels are the most expensive, since they are the latest technology.
Labor costs
Labor costs for installation account for about 10-15% of the overall costs. These costs vary depending on the location, complexity of installation, and the expertise of the labor required. In areas with high wages or where solar energy is particularly popular, like California, labor costs will be pricier.
Plus, if the system is being installed on a difficult roof (like one with multiple angles or that’s too high), it will need specialized installers. They will charge extra. And, while the cost of the solar energy system may initially seem high, it’s important to note that it’s typically recouped over time through savings on energy bills.
Solar inverter type
Solar inverters are primarily responsible for converting the direct current generated by the panels into alternating current. There are several inverter types, and each has a varying price. These types include central, string, micro, and power optimizers.
Generally, string inverters are more affordable, while micro inverters and power optimizers are more expensive due to their technology and the advantages they offer. An example, micro inverters can be installed on individual panels, so even if one panel is shaded, the others will still function well. This makes them more ideal for installations with inconsistent sunlight.
Commercial building roof space
A solar system installation with a higher roof area will use more solar panels. These panels produce more solar energy, which means the system will be more powerful and have a higher price.
Conversely, if there is limited roof space, it's likely the installer will have to opt for more expensive panels (like bifacial or monocrystalline). In some extreme cases where the limited space affects the system's ability to generate enough energy, the installer may recommend a tracking system.
Solar panel type
Forty kilowatt solar systems use different solar panels. These include bifacial, monocrystalline, and polycrystalline panels. Each type has pros and cons, depending on the client’s needs. For instance, monocrystalline panels are more efficient, so they are more ideal in installations with limited space.
Also, they offer better energy production in low-light conditions. On the other hand, polycrystalline panels are less costly and generally the most used for extensive commercial solar installations.
Energy needs
The first step when determining the energy needs of the building is to review the energy bills. This gives the average energy consumption in kilowatt hours. Next, consider any future energy needs, like adding more electrical appliances, upgrading the HVAC system, or increasing production.
For optimal energy efficiency, aim to meet about 80% of the building’s current needs. The remaining 20% will cater for future needs. Now that the energy needs are determined, the solar installer will select the solar panels that can meet this energy requirement.
Budget
The client’s budget plays a key role in the solar power system that will be installed. How much they are willing to spend determines the type of solar panel and inverter that will be installed. It also affects whether to include added features, like battery storage or monitoring systems.
Incentives and rebates
Both state and federal governments and some utility companies offer various rebates and incentives for commercial solar installations. These are like tax credits, cash rebates, and performance-based incentives. So, it’s worth considering these incentives, as they can significantly lower the overall costs.
Installation complexity
Forty kilowatt systems are massive. They can have many solar panels and often require more than one team to complete the installation process. When there are many people working on the project, it may be complicated and lead to mistakes.
Also, if the building is too complex (like having multiple angles and being too high), it will require specialized solar installers. These installers charge extra, which can increase the overall costs.
A1.40 kilowatt systems operate at optimal efficiency when their solar panels receive direct sunlight. So, they can produce almost all the solar energy they are meant to produce, which is 40kilowatts. They achieve this condition mainly during summer, around noon.
A2.Maintenance for these solar systems is generally minimal. But, to ensure they operate at optimal capacity, the solar panels should be cleaned regularly. This removes the dust, debris, and other small particles that accumulate on the panels over time and block sunlight. This is especially done in dusty areas.
A3.Common accessories added to these solar systems include solar panel mounts and racks, solar power optimizers, and solar batteries. Others include solar installers and cup holders.
A4.To help the systems last longer, buyers need to ensure the panels are regularly inspected for damage, debris, or pests. Additionally, they should check the inverter to ensure it’s functioning properly. This way, any issues caught early won’t affect the overall system.
A5.It’s best for buyers to buy these systems during off-peak season, like fall and winter. This is when solar retailers offer discounts and rebates on their products to reduce the cost of installation. Also, in the low season, there are fewer buyers, meaning more availability and a larger variety of options.
