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How Many Solar Panels Do I Need for My Commercial Property?
Wondering exactly how many solar panels you'll need for your business?
At Easy Being Green, it's one of the first questions we're asked by businesses across Australia, and it makes sense. Commercial solar is an investment, so understanding what goes into sizing your system can save headaches (and money) down the track.
What size solar system does my business need?
The size of the solar system you'll need depends heavily on your business's daily electricity usage. Most Australian businesses underestimate just how much power they actually consume. A small retail shop typically uses around 30 kWh per day, but a busy warehouse or manufacturing facility might easily consume upwards of 500 kWh each day (here's an article with some helpful stats).
What we've noticed is that the easiest way to start sizing your solar system is to look at your energy bills. By doing a quick check of your quarterly usage, we can quickly help determine exactly how many panels you'll need.
Location makes all the difference
Australia is lucky to have abundant sunlight, but where your business operates affects how much solar energy you can generate. Melbourne businesses might not generate the same output as those in sunny Sydney due to variations in sunlight hours throughout the year (check out average sun hours here).
When we're helping a business set up commercial solar, we always recommend considering these regional differences upfront. It avoids nasty surprises and ensures you’re getting the most from your system right from the start.
Efficiency isn't just technical jargon
When talking about solar, efficiency can sound overly technical, but it directly affects how many panels you'll need. Put simply, more efficient panels generate more electricity from less space, ideal for businesses with limited roof area. Check out our dedicated guide on solar panel efficiency for a clearer understanding.
Businesses with smaller rooftops can still harness solar by choosing high-efficiency panels. Even if you think your property isn’t suitable, there’s usually a solution
What we've learned from other businesses
Many businesses initially worry about the upfront costs of solar panels. But here's something reassuring—we've seen firsthand that most commercial properties recoup their investment within 3 to 5 years. Companies with large warehouse spaces, for example, have shared that switching to solar significantly slashed their operational costs, allowing them to redirect funds towards growth or employee development instead.
This experience aligns closely with broader industry findings, demonstrating that solar isn't just environmentally friendly—it's financially smart.
Going beyond solar panels
Installing solar panels is just part of the solution. Storing that energy is equally valuable. Businesses are increasingly opting to pair panels with solar batteries, making sure excess energy doesn't go to waste. We've helped several clients implement these systems, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Curious? Take a look at how solar batteries could benefit your business.
It's not just about using power; it's about using power wisely. Integrating storage means you’ll be using your own solar-generated energy even after the sun goes down, reducing reliance on the grid.
Practical considerations before installation
Roof orientation and shading are crucial factors that affect how many solar panels your property requires. We've encountered buildings with significant shading issues or roofs facing less-than-ideal directions, leading us to recommend specialized setups.
Don’t underestimate this step—our team thoroughly assesses these details to ensure your panels operate at peak performance. Getting this right the first time avoids any disappointing outcomes.
Why choose Easy Being Green?
We've helped more than 800,000 Aussie homes and businesses make smarter energy choices. Our commitment goes beyond just installation—we provide ongoing advice, maintenance, and support, tailored specifically to your needs. We also know that every business is unique, which is why we always start with an in-depth conversation.
If you're curious about commercial solar, reach out through our contact page. We're here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.
Your next steps
If you're ready to find out exactly how many solar panels your commercial property needs, our team at Easy Being Green is ready to help. A quick conversation can clarify your exact needs, saving your business both time and money in the long run. Get started by exploring our commercial solar solutions, or directly request a personalized quote today.
