Residential vs Industrial Solar: A Closer Look

There are a number of decisions you have to make when you go solar.

Residential vs Industrial Solar: A Closer Look 1

The solar industry has been booming over the last decade. There are currently enough solar panels installed to power roughly 22 million American homes, according to SEIA.

Deciding to purchase solar panels in and of itself is a big decision. That’s just the start of the process. One of the first big choices you’ll have to make is whether to opt for industrial solar panels or residential ones.

In this post, we’re going to explain the difference between industrial and residential solar. Whatever type you choose to install, you’re going to see benefits. That said, there are some important distinctions, so keep reading and do your due diligence before purchasing your panels.  

Industrial Solar

What really sets industrial solar panels apart from residential ones is that they have no connection to utility companies. They generate their energy for commercial resale, whereas a residential solar panel system covers the energy usage of the home it’s installed on.

The commercial interests of industrial solar panels could range from solar farms to carports and everything in between. Because there are profits involved, installing industrial solar has more logistical issues to deal with.

Residential Solar

Residential solar panels are almost always tied to the local power grid. They generate solar energy for the express purpose of powering the owner’s home. Any excess energy produced can be sold back to the power grid for a profit.

Residential systems are much smaller than industrial ones, usually restricted to somewhere between 20-24 panels in total. Industrial systems can be as large or small as the commercial interests of the owner – the more the better, in most scenarios. A homeowner just needs enough to cover their energy usage.

Differences in Equipment

While residential solar panel systems can be used for industrial purposes and vice versa, there are some differences in the equipment. Industrial solar systems generally have a higher output and, as such, need more intense equipment to deal with that output.

They’ve got more efficient panels, better inverters, and more intense mounting systems. Residential solar panels are smaller and produce less energy, but the right size solar panel system will have no trouble offsetting a home’s energy usage.

Which Should You Choose?

Which type of solar energy you decide to go with depends on your solar needs. If you’re just a homeowner, a regular residential solar panel system should be enough. When you’re expecting to make a profit on harnessing solar power, you need the best equipment available.

Whatever you decide, it’s important to talk to a solar expert to get informed. As one of the biggest solar providers in the country, Blue Raven has all of the info you’ll ever need. Talk to one of their professionals about Blue Raven solar cost, equipment, and installation.

Get In on the Solar Boom

Whether it’s industrial solar or residential solar that you choose, getting in on the surging solar market is a smart idea. Solar costs are lower than they’ve ever been and there are loads of incentives and credits currently available to those that choose solar. Do it today and experience the benefits for yourself.

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