It is still difficult for many organizations to make a solar deal pencil. Without implementing other renewable energy applications in conjunction, solar isn’t financially viable for many commercial building owners.
In addition, it is difficult to find a Solar Firm that isn’t tied to one specific type of solar panels that they sell and install. This is problematic as one type of solar does not fit all! In marine areas and at higher elevations for example, thin film solar panels are not financially viable and are not very efficient. Decision makers are not only faced with making a decision based on price per kilowatt, but also must make informed decisions on the most effective type of solar panel for their regional area/intended use. Also, most solar firms will NOT complete installations for customers who buy their own solar panels, meaning most customers who move forward with an installation are not only paying retail for their solar panels, but they are most likely not getting the most efficient type of solar panels.
GeoSource Foundation has our own solar design, engineering and installation team in house, and we buy our own solar panels – wholesale. We complete beta testing of several different types of panels for our clients BEFORE our clients must make a decision and then share those results with our client firsthand. As a result, our clients know that they have the most efficient solar panels for their intended use/area, and they enjoy a project that makes financial and economic sense.
Thin film solar is where the majority of advances in technology today are being made and thin film solar is likely the future of the industry. Although not yet a fit in all geographical/regional areas, thin film has many advantages over all other types of solar if you’re in an area where it is a good fit;
1 – It’s very durable and sturdy unlike all other types of solar panels which are very fragile.
2 – Thin film solar panels require far less maintenance.
3 – Thin film solar panels weigh less than half of other types of solar panels. If you’re installing the panels on a roof, this can be a major factor as weight = structural and support considerations and costs.
Building Integrated Solar Panels are also becoming more prevalent and financially viable on new construction projects. Thin film technology is the basis for most of these types of solar applications and are aesthetically pleasing. They are built into the roofing tiles/shingles and exterior walls and coverings. To the naked eye, many installations look like normal roofing tiles or a tile or stucco exterior when in fact, they are solar panels. Efficiencies are improving rapidly and they may soon rival traditional solar panels. For some great photos, click on the link below;