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There are many pivotal decisions involved in designing a solar installation for a business, and one of those decisions is selecting the right provider. Solar projects require design, engineering, electrical work, permitting, installation and system commissioning, not a simple equipment purchase. These various phases can be coordinated by a qualified provider who can also ensure that the project proceeds in a proper direction.
When businesses are considering commercial solar services, knowing what an EPC provider does will make the process a lot easier.
What Does EPC Mean in Commercial Solar?
EPC stands for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction. A solar EPC company in Phoenix can manage the major stages of a commercial solar project, from initial planning through final system activation.
Engineering covers site assessment, system design, structural considerations, and electrical planning. Procurement involves sourcing the equipment required for the project. Construction covers the physical installation, electrical integration, testing, and commissioning.
Having these responsibilities coordinated through one team can reduce communication gaps between different contractors.
Look for Experience With Commercial Projects
Commercial solar systems can be more complicated than residential solar systems. Requirements for larger energy use, electrical infrastructure, permitting and site conditions all must be taken into account when planning.
Businesses should consider how the provider has worked with other commercial project types when comparing providers. Each of these rooftop, ground-mounted, and parking lot canopy systems has specific installation considerations.
A provider who has a wide range of commercial experience will have a better appreciation of how these factors impact project planning and project execution.
Review the Complete Scope of Services
A good EPC partner will spell out what is covered in their services. This may involve site assessment, engineering, equipment sourcing, permitting, solar panel installation, electrical wiring, utility coordination and final commissioning depending on the project.
There are a number of factors that a business must take into account before signing an agreement. Identifying which team is to perform each stage can help to prevent confusion and unforeseen omissions during construction.
Consider Electrical Expertise
Electrical integration is an essential aspect of any commercial solar project. The solar panels must be connected to the building’s electrical system perfectly, and the system must be installed in accordance with relevant requirements.
When looking for a solar installation company, businesses should also take into account the electrical skills of the company. Safe and reliable operation is achieved with proper wiring, conduit work, connections and system integration.
Ask About Project Management
There are a number of stages to large commercial projects that must be completed in order. The engineering, equipment sourcing, permitting, or installation can be a factor in delays to the total program.
An able EPC provider oversees these stages and keeps communication constantly through the project. This provides more transparent accountability and allows the business to understand what is occurring at each stage.
Think Beyond Installation
Once the panels are installed, it doesn’t always mean the relationship with the solar energy provider is over. Commercial systems need monitoring and maintenance to ensure they will perform reliably over time.
Businesses can ask potential commercial solar services providers what maintenance and support options they offer when comparing services. Conducting regular inspections and monitoring of performance can help prevent problems from impacting on energy production.
Conclusion
When selecting a solar EPC company, there are more things to consider than just solar installation costs. Commercial experience, engineering skills, electrical expertise, project coordination, and long-term support are all areas to look at when assessing businesses. A single coordinated effort for the big areas of a project can make commercial solar easier to plan and execute.
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