A solar carport is a solar structure that has a metal frame to support solar panels; this structure can then operate as a carport or protective cover for cars to park underneath. The solar panels then generate electricity that can be directed back to the electricity grid or stored in a battery for local consumption. Solar carports tend to be a domestic residential term for a solar car park.
What is the difference between a solar car park and a solar carport?
In theory, the solar car park and the solar carport are the same thing; however, the solar car park usually refers to a commercial structure.
A solar carport is a domestic structure, much like a traditional carport. It is built adjacent to or attached to a residential dwelling and can house and protect cars whilst housing solar panels that generate electricity.
A solar car park is the commercial version of this structure. It can be made at any size from a two-bay car park through to an extensive scale network of structures that can shelter thousands of cars. Like a residential solar carport, the solar car park creates electricity. Because of the heavy electricity usage of commercial and industrial organisations, the solar produced by solar car parks is most often used to offset the electricity costs of the building as a whole. Depending on the size and scale of the solar car park structure that we install, the electricity needs may be entirely covered by the power generated by the PV structure.
Can unit blocks use solar car ports?
Yes, commercial solar in the form of a solar car park or solar carport is available for medium and high-density residential developments. Commonly solar car parks are installed in townhouse complexes, unit complexes and any residential development that has a shared or common parking space. The electricity generated can then be fed back to the grid or shared between the units. Body Corporate ownership of solar is an innovative model for residential solar. If you are interested in exploring this further, we can discuss the project and link you to one of our trusted solar providers( such as Energy Action) who can discuss the ROI for your project.
Can we incorporate an EV Charging system into a solar carport or solar car park for our unit complex?
Definitely, at PV Structures, we have packages that include a three-bay car park and EV Charging Station. EV Charging Stations are a great addition to any residential complex as they provide a great amenity for both residents and their guests.
Our fully engineered solutions are available with
- three EV charging points,
- 30 450W Bi-Facial tier 1 Solar Modules (or solar panels),
- Your choice of premium inverters,
- Exceptional quality steel frames and solar racking system that PV Structures are renowned for in the commercial solar industry.
Solar carports are essentially the smaller version of a solar car park, but don’t let their size fool you; they can still generate significant power. Solar carports are a valuable addition to a residential home, however if you are looking for a commercial solution, a solar car park is the way to go.
Solar car parks come in any size and can include EV Charging Stations as part of the design making them perfect for:
- Unit Complexes
- Townhouses
- Body Corporates
- Small Commercial Buildings
- Shopping Centers
- Factories
- Industrial Buildings
- Industrial Complexes
- Transport Hubs
- Local Government Facilities
- Schools
- Universities
- Restaurants
- Pubs and Clubs
At PV Structures, we are always on the lookout for innovative projects that can showcase solar at its best. We would love to talk to you about solutions for your site that can work as standalone structures or in conjunction with rooftop solar. Get in touch with the team at PV Structures on 1300 856 978 or fill in our contact form, and we will get back to you.
