Energy is one of the highest expenses for schools, so it’s no surprise that many districts are beginning to consider solar power projects. Solar is more attractive than ever before, thanks to Solar for PA Schools, a new grant program created by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that covers up to 50 percent of the cost of installing panels. Some school districts have seen reductions of more than $100,000 to their annual energy bills after making the switch to solar.
But installing solar panels on a roof isn’t a totally straightforward process; a school district needs to perform a careful analysis to ensure a solar project is the right fit for their unique circumstances. At BAI, we have helped several school districts make the switch to solar and can help guide you through this transition. Here’s what you need to know about solar projects for schools.
Age of Roof and Warranties
With all the momentum behind solar projects, it can be tempting to jump right into a solar installation. Before installing solar, however, it’s essential to consider the age of your roof and its warranty.
A standard flat commercial roof for a school lasts between 20 to 30 years. If your roof has only five to 10 years left in its useful life, then it may not make sense to install solar panels. Why? Once it comes time for the roof to be replaced, the solar panels need to be removed as well. It’s usually preferable for solar projects to coincide with a new roof, ensuring that you maximize the amount of time you are generating solar power.
On the other hand, if you’re thinking about installing solar on a young roof, it’s critical to account for the roof’s warranty. The last thing you want to do is install solar panels on your roof, only to find out that it voids the warranty. Our team at BAI knows how to navigate these roof warranty issues and can help come to a solution that keeps your roof protected.
Structural Integrity
Flat roofs are generally considered an ideal match for solar installations. Still, it’s extremely important for any school considering solar to perform a structural integrity analysis of the roof to ensure it can support the weight of solar panels. Any structural problems with a school roof can cause havoc for students and families, which is why at BAI we are especially cautious when it comes to adding solar to a school’s roof. The good news is that solar panels usually weigh between four and seven pounds per square foot — well within the range of most commercial roofs.
The BAI Difference
At BAI, we have worked with numerous school districts to help them make the switch to solar power. One recent project, which added solar panels at two schools in the Moniteau School District, yielded nearly 2,000 kW of energy generating power.
Most importantly, our team will offer you guidance on how to time solar installation with replacement of your roof. We have connections with both roof and solar manufacturers, and we can work with you to ensure a long-term solution that satisfies your energy needs without sacrificing any long-term stability or warranty for your roof. To learn more about how BAI can help your school make the switch to solar, get in touch with us today.