System Features

APS designs and installs solar electric (PV) power generation systems for numerous types of commercial structures. Solar electric (PV) power generation systems convert sunlight directly into electricity and are reliable, pollution-free, and quiet.

A commercial power system enables a facility owner or manager to generate some or all of their daily electrical energy demand on their own roof, exchanging daytime excess power for future energy needs (i.e. nighttime usage). The building remains connected to the electric utility at all times, so any power needed above what the solar system can produce is simply drawn from the utility. Due to the large volume of power consumed in a commercial building, these systems typically do not include battery backup options.

Our solar electric systems come with a five year standard installation warranty, and up to a 25 year manufacturer's warranty. They will produce power for a building in excess of 30 years. Solar collectors, which are typically mounted on the roof, are made of a hail resistant material to prevent damage and are designed to withstand winds in excess of local code requirements. Solar electric systems are sized based on the requested volume of utility based electricity offset. The energy produced by these systems can be monitored by a graphical interface placed within the building or directly through the internet.

System Benefits

Installing a solar system on a commercial building enables the building's owner or manager to generate large utility cost savings while making a major contribution to cleaning the environment. PV systems may also help qualify a building for LEED certification. Due to the significant potential energy savings solar electric can generate, the state of Texas has required state government departments to compare the cost of providing energy alternatives for new and reconstructed state government buildings and for certain construction or repair to energy systems and equipment.

Types of Collectors

APS offer three types of solar collectors for our typical commercial applications:

• Crystalline -rigid silicon wafers vacuum sealed under a tempered glass cover
• Thin Film (Amorphous Silicon) Multi-layered light absorbers encased in polymer. Typically adhered to a metal surface, roofing membrane or composite roofing surface.
• Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) Thin Film

Sample of Commercial Applications

• K-12 Schools
• Colleges and Universities
• Government and Private Buildings
• Storage and Manufacturing Facilities
• Parking Lot and Garage Canopies
• Open Structures
• Hotels and Resorts
• Restaurants
• Churches
• Retail Stores
• Hospitals
• Apartments
  
  

Net Metering

Some utility companies have net metering programs, which can further enhance the economics of PV. Net metering means that when a PV system generates more electricity than needed, the excess goes to the utility grid and the meter essentially spins backwards. This excess power can sometimes be sold to the utility or traded for future credit on an individual's utility bill.

Rebates, Tax Incentives, and Grants

The U.S. government provides 30% tax credit or grant towards the installation of solar electric systems on commercial buildings, in addition to a bonus depreciation in the first year, equivalent to 50% of the adjusted basis of the system. The state of Texas has also included a Franchise Tax Deduction for the installation of a solar system.

There are also federal energy investment credits and multiple DOE programs to help offset the cost of these systems. In addition, property and franchise tax exemptions can be claimed for the increase in property value as a result of the solar electric system. Environmental credits such as Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) can be sold from these systems. Multiple utility companies including Entergy, AEP, Oncor, TNMP, CPS and BTU offer an up to 40% cash rebate towards the purchase of solar energy systems.

After-Sale Services

APS offers long term maintenance service contracts that can be purchased at the time of new system installation or on existing systems. Our service contracts enable the building owner or manager to ensure the continual performance of their systems beyond standard warranties. APS also offers "Solar Service Agreements" which provide the best value for obtaining and maintaining a commercial solar electric system.

Typical Install Cost

There is no typical cost for a commercial based solar electric system since all building, including energy consumption, and available space for system installation vary so greatly. The multiple variables that influence the cost of these systems include but are not limited to the amount of utility grid power to be offset, the selected type of system and mounting options. Contact APS directly at sales@apowersolutions or enter your information in the Contact Us page for a detailed cost, ROI and incentive analysis for your building. APS has multiple financing plans to accommodate your needs for Solar PV Systems throughout the Southwest of the United States.