So, you’ve analyzed your energy consumption patterns and decided a cleaner energy solution is best for your business? That’s great news! What’s even better? You’ve chosen solar. But before you leap, you need to make sure your building is ready for the switch. This checklist will walk you through the steps you need to assess your roof conditions, structural integrity, start-up cost, and regulatory compliance—so you can confidently move forward with your solar plans.
Assess Your Building
Whether you’re putting your solar on the ground or the roof is up to you, but if you choose the latter, it’s important to ensure it’s up for the job.
- Check for damage: Inspect your building, especially your roof, for leaks, cracks, or general wear and tear. A damaged roof will require repairs before construction can take place.
- Evaluate age: How old is the roof? If it doesn’t easily last the lifespan of the panels (20+ years), it might need a touch-up or full replacement prior to installation.
- Space and orientation: Ensure you have enough space for the panels and that the roof has adequate exposure to the sun—you’ll need that! If you’re not already engaged with a solar provider, all of them can help you map out panel placement.
- Structural integrity: Confirm that the building can bear the additional weight of solar panels and the mounting system. A professional structural assessment may be necessary.
Review Regulatory Compliance
Complying with local, state, and federal regulations is a must when installing solar.
- Check zoning regulations: Verify local zoning laws to ensure no restrictions prevent solar installation on your building. Some areas have specific guidelines for historic buildings or residential districts.
- Consult with local authorities: Speak with your local building department or permitting office to understand any permit requirements or restrictions that apply to solar systems.
- Meet utility requirements: If you're connecting to the grid, confirm that your local utility company has no additional requirements or restrictions on solar installations. Some utilities may require specific metering or approval processes.
When working with a third-party provider like Catalyst Power, this is their area of expertise. It’s great to know for your own knowledge, but the experts handle much of the regulatory process.
What about Financing Options?
According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Exchange, a large part of organizational solar readiness is determining which financing options are best for your business.
Catalyst Power offers both a rooftop solar lease and a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which offer different terms and benefits.
Learn how PPAs and leases compare in our guide.
Finalize Your Decision
Once you’ve completed the assessments above, you should have a clearer picture of whether your business is truly ready for solar.
- Consult with a solar provider: Now that you’ve assessed your building, structure, and compliance, it’s time to consult with a trusted solar provider. They can guide you on system sizing and installation and help you navigate the permitting process.
- Manage necessary upgrades: If any upgrades are needed—roof repairs, electrical system enhancements, etc.—make sure to address them accordingly.
Going solar is a smart, sustainable decision, but it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure your building is truly ready. Use this checklist to assess roof conditions, structural integrity, and regulatory compliance before committing. By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you’ll be on the path to a smooth, successful solar installation that maximizes your energy savings and business sustainability.
