It is a new year and here at PV Structures we are looking forward to what 2021 has in store for commercial solar. We don’t need to tell you that 2020 was a crazy year! You know it just as well as we do; but like always, there are good things that come from every year, and reflections to be made.
What we have seen in the commercial solar industry in 2020
In 2020 we observed a changing of the guard, so to speak in commercial solar. As new project approvals all but died off between March and September; we saw a renewed focus on the why behind commercial solar. COVID shut downs gave government and industry the space that it needed to really re-assess their plan for renewables. Working from home changed the nature of the office space and the new trend towards smaller, more compact offices that serve as hubs for workers allows more opportunity to think about how these spaces are powered.
In commercial solar there has been a “back to the drawing board” approach; creative ideas about how to get real with renewable energy and how to rethink solar for the post-Covid workplace, commercial building and retail precinct. Of course, we believe that solar shade structures are an integral part of the rethinking of commercial solar.
Solar shade structures in 2021
2021 is the year that the rubber hits the road when it comes to this re-imagination of our shade and solar needs. Ambient or previously unused spaces are ripe for conversion to mini solar farms. A more sophisticated power grid in most states is allowing for a maximum ROI for new solar investments. A maturing solar market with solar companies that are able to take on bigger projects with the confidence we have not seen often in Australia is also contributing positively.
As companies, industries and retail precincts, as well as government and the not-for-profit sector reassess their commitment to the environment it is time to commit to practical measures. These practical commitments to renewables are not simply the choice to consume power from renewable power generation; that is not a true commitment to solar. It is the real commitment to creating solar energy to provide for the needs of the organisation that is what is required; and 2021 is the year for this tangible commitment and investment.
Solar Car Parks and Beyond
Solar carparks are the bread and butter for us here at PV Structures. Having been an integral partner in the largest solar car parks in the southern hemisphere we understand solar car parks. But we also know that there is more scope for PV Shade Structures than just the solar carpark. PV Shade Structures can be incorporated into covered walkways, sports complexes, shaded parks and gardens, outdoor dining precincts and much more. Solar shade structures are only limited by the imaginative design of architects and their teams.
To discuss how a solar car park, solar shade structure or stand alone commercial solar structure can be incorporated into your existing site or a new build, get in touch with our team.
