Agile Advantage - Seven Deadly Sins of Solar Installations: Mistakes Businesses Must Avoid

Seven Deadly Sins of Solar Installations

Mistakes Businesses Must Avoid

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As businesses increasingly turn to solar energy to reduce their environmental impact and energy costs, the road to successful solar installation isn’t always straightforward. Our market observations are showing that, businesses often make critical mistakes that can lead to inefficiencies, increased costs, and even system failure.

In this paper, we identify the Seven Deadly Sins of Solar Installations — common mistakes businesses make during the solar rollout process and how to avoid them.

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1. Neglecting Proper Site Assessment

One of the most fundamental mistakes businesses can make is failing to properly assess the suitability of their site for solar. A site assessment should account for roof condition, shading, and orientation, all of which can significantly impact the efficiency of your solar system.

• Stat: According to the Clean Energy Council, approximately 20% of solar installations in Australia suffer from performance issues due to poor site assessments.

• Solution: Ensure a professional site assessment is done before installation to identify any obstacles, optimise panel placement, and ensure long-term performance.

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2. Choosing the Cheapest Option

While it’s tempting to opt for the lowest-priced system or installation, cutting costs can often lead to compromised quality and performance. Cheap panels or poorly executed installations may result in higher maintenance costs and reduced energy savings in the long run.

• Stat: A study from IHS Markit showed that low-cost panels often have a lower energy output, reducing ROI by as much as 10% over the system’s lifetime.

• Solution: Opt for quality equipment from trusted brands and professional installers with a proven track record.

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3. Ignoring Regulatory Compliance

Solar systems must comply with various local and national regulations. Neglecting the proper permits or failing to meet Australian Standards (AS 5033) can result in costly fines, delays, or even the need for system modifications.

• Stat: According to the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), businesses that neglect regulatory requirements often face delays and additional costs, with some installers reporting an increase in compliance issues by over 15% in recent years.

• Solution: Work with accredited installers who understand the regulatory landscape and ensure your installation meets all necessary requirements.

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4. Inadequate System Size Planning

Installing a solar system that’s too small or too large for your business's energy needs can lead to wasted investment. A system that is too small won’t produce enough power to offset energy bills, while an oversized system may result in unnecessary upfront costs.

• Stat: According to a report from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), businesses that oversize their systems by more than 20% typically experience reduced returns on investment due to unnecessary capital costs.

• Solution: Work with experts to size your solar system appropriately based on your energy consumption, roof space, and long-term goals.

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5. Neglecting Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring

Solar systems require periodic maintenance and performance monitoring to ensure they are running efficiently. Failing to maintain the system or neglecting to track its performance can result in reduced output and higher repair costs over time.

• Stat: A study from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) indicates that 15-25% of solar systems underperform due to a lack of proper maintenance and monitoring.

• Solution: Invest in a monitoring system that provides real-time data on energy production and scheduling regular maintenance checks to extend the lifespan of your system.

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6. Poor Installation Practices

Even the best solar panels can underperform if installed incorrectly. Poor installation practices, such as improper wiring, incorrect panel placement, or failure to secure panels properly, can lead to system failures and safety hazards.

• Stat: Research from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) highlights that improper installation can decrease system performance by up to 30%.

• Solution: Always hire experienced, certified installers who follow industry best practices and ensure that the installation is up to standard.

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7. Lack of a Long-Term Strategy

Solar installations are a long-term investment. Many businesses make the mistake of not planning for future needs, such as expansion, increased energy demand, or integrating energy storage solutions.

• Stat: A report by the Clean Energy Council found that over 10% of businesses fail to consider future scalability, leading to costly upgrades or system modifications down the line.

• Solution: Work with consultants to develop a long-term energy strategy, considering potential future growth and opportunities for adding battery storage or grid integration.

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Conclusion

By recognising and addressing these Seven Deadly Sins of Solar Installations, businesses can avoid costly mistakes and set themselves up for success in the rapidly expanding solar market. With the right planning, expert guidance, and quality installations, solar energy can provide significant long-term benefits in terms of both cost savings and environmental impact.

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Learn more at https://agileadvantage.au/

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