Large solar panel on-site energy

To achieve sustainability goals while meeting the increasing electricity demands of electrification, organizations are pairing on-site solar PV generation with on-site energy storage. These systems, which are considered as “behind-the-meter” (BTM) systems, allow facilities to maximize the benefits of on-site renewable generation.

While not a de facto choice – especially for large hyperscale facilities – on-site solar is growing in popularity as companies look to boost their green credentials and save money against high energy costs. Operators large and small have deployed solar panels to the rooftops of their facilities.

Large-scale solar projects also attract significant investments from private and public sectors. With the declining costs of solar technology and increasing energy demands, investors are recognizing the long-term potential of solar energy as a viable and profitable investment. The environmental benefits of large-scale solar systems are profound.

The electricity generated can be fed directly into the grid or used to power nearby facilities, depending on the project's configuration and agreements with utility companies. The design of large-scale solar systems is crucial for maximizing efficiency and energy output.

For the scenario represented in the graph, an on-site solar PV system allows the facility to reduce the amount of electricity drawn from the grid during the middle of the day. Increasing the amount of solar PV production on-site can provide additional cost and emission reductions and resiliency benefits for facilities.

Ideal sites are characterized by high solar irradiance, minimal shading from trees or buildings, and proximity to existing power infrastructure. Additionally, large scale solar land that is less suitable for agriculture or development, such as brownfields or degraded land, is often preferred to minimize land-use conflicts.