As we step into 2025, the landscape of solar energy in American households is evolving at a remarkable pace. More and more families are recognizing the benefits of going solar, and statistics show that residential solar installations have surged, with millions of homes now harnessing the power of the sun.
In this context, one innovative solution that’s gaining traction is the solar canopy. You might be wondering, “What exactly is a solar canopy?” Well, think of it as a multi-functional structure that not only provides shade but also generates clean, renewable energy. Solar canopies can be installed over parking lots, backyards, or even patios, transforming unused space into energy-producing assets. They’re becoming an essential part of the solar conversation, merging practicality with environmental benefits.
What is a Solar Canopy?
A solar canopy is essentially a structure that supports solar panels above the ground, providing shade and shelter while simultaneously generating electricity. Think of it as a carport for solar panels or a shaded outdoor space that captures sunlight to produce energy. These canopies can be built over parking lots, patios, or other open areas where sunlight is abundant.
Solar canopies are known by several names, including:
- Solar carports
- Solar pergolas
- Solar awnings
- Solar pavilions
Types of Solar Canopy Applications
Here are the most common types and where they're typically used:
Commercial Solar Carports
Commercial solar carports are large-scale structures typically built in parking lots or open spaces to provide shaded parking while also generating solar energy. These systems can cover entire parking areas and significantly reduce a business's energy costs.
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Energy Production: Commercial solar carports can generate substantial amounts of electricity, especially for businesses with large parking lots. This power can be used to offset energy consumption or even be sold back to the grid, depending on local regulations.
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Additional Benefits: Besides reducing energy costs, these carports offer protection to vehicles from weather elements like sun, rain, and snow, which can prolong the lifespan of vehicles. They also provide businesses with an opportunity to improve their sustainability efforts, enhancing their reputation as environmentally responsible companies.
Residential Solar Carports
Residential solar carports function similarly to their commercial counterparts but are scaled down for use in residential settings. These carports provide homeowners with shaded parking while offering the benefit of solar energy generation.
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Space Efficiency: Residential solar carports are a great solution for homeowners with limited roof space or those who do not want to place solar panels directly on their roof. They can be placed in driveways or backyards, maximizing energy generation without taking up additional roof space.
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Home Energy Benefits: Just like commercial systems, the energy generated by residential solar carports can be used to power the home, reducing electricity bills. In some cases, homeowners can even install energy storage systems to store excess power for later use, particularly useful during peak hours or at night.
Solar Pergolas
Solar pergolas are decorative structures with solar panels integrated into their design. Often installed in gardens, patios, or decks, they combine the charm of traditional pergolas with the functionality of solar energy production.
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Aesthetic Appeal: Solar pergolas are an attractive option for homeowners who want to integrate solar energy into their property without sacrificing visual appeal. The open-frame design creates a perfect outdoor space for relaxation, while the panels provide a green energy solution.
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Utility: Solar pergolas can power outdoor lighting, water features, or even small appliances like fans or chargers. They are an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their outdoor living area while reducing their carbon footprint.
Solar Awnings
Solar awnings are retractable canopies installed above windows, doors, or patios. These awnings feature integrated solar panels that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, offering both shading and energy generation benefits.
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Energy Efficiency: Solar awnings not only reduce the heat gain inside the home, making air conditioning more efficient, but they also produce electricity to power household appliances or outdoor equipment like lights or security cameras.
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Flexible Application: Awnings can be installed in various locations around the home, such as over entryways, windows, or balconies, offering versatility in design and energy production.
Solar Pavilions
Solar pavilions are freestanding, open-sided structures that integrate solar panels into their design. These can be installed in parks, gardens, or on commercial properties to provide shelter while also generating solar energy.
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Public and Community Spaces: Solar pavilions are ideal for use in public spaces like parks or recreational areas, where they can provide shaded seating while contributing to sustainable energy production. They also make excellent installations for educational purposes, showcasing the potential of solar energy to visitors.
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Sustainability in Public Spaces: As more municipalities and organizations focus on sustainability, solar pavilions offer a practical solution for reducing energy consumption in public spaces while providing shelter and protection from the elements.
What Are the Costs of Solar Canopies?
When considering solar canopies, there are generally two options: DIY (Do-It-Yourself) structures and prefabricated systems.
DIY Solar Canopies:
Building a solar canopy yourself can significantly reduce labor costs. Typically, DIY projects can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on materials and size. However, this price doesn’t include the cost of solar panels, which can add several thousand dollars more. For example, a standard 5kW solar panel system might cost between $15,000 and $25,000, You can view our 5kw solar system here. Choosing a good solar company and getting multiple solar quotes can save you a lot of money.
Commercial Installations
In the United States, commercial solar canopy systems typically cost between $3.45 and $4.00 per watt. This estimate includes expenses for solar panels, the supporting structure, labor, wiring, and other necessary equipment. For example, a 5-kilowatt (kW) commercial solar canopy would range from approximately $17,250 to $20,000 before applying any available tax credits or incentives.
An average commercial solar canopy system is about 11 kW in size, with costs ranging from $3.45 to $3.99 per watt. This translates to a total installation cost starting around $38,000.
Residential Installations
Residential solar carports may have higher per-watt costs compared to commercial systems due to smaller system sizes and the absence of economies of scale. Additionally, solar canopies generally cost more than rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems of equivalent capacity because of the extra expense associated with constructing the canopy structure.
Additional Considerations:
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Installation Complexity: The complexity of the installation, including design and engineering requirements, can influence overall costs.
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Location: Regional differences in labor rates, permitting fees, and incentive programs can affect the total expense.
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Incentives and Tax Credits: Federal, state, and local incentives, such as the federal solar tax credit, can significantly reduce the net cost of installing a solar canopy.
Are Solar Canopies Worth It?
If you have an outdoor parking lot that receives ample sunlight, especially if your roof is often shaded by trees or buildings, investing in a solar canopy is a smart choice. These structures provide an effective way to harness solar energy without relying on rooftop installations, which may not be feasible in certain situations. You can check out this article: Is My Roof Good For Solar?
Solar canopies allow you to generate clean energy while providing essential shade for vehicles, reducing heat buildup in parking areas. This not only enhances the comfort of parked cars but also protects them from the elements, potentially extending their lifespan.
In short, if your location has good sunlight exposure but your roof isn't suitable for solar panels, solar canopies offer a practical and efficient alternative to generate renewable energy.
Top Solar Canopy Suppliers
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SunPower
- Features: Known for high-efficiency solar panels and robust canopies, SunPower offers integrated systems that maximize energy production.
- Cost: Prices for solar canopies start around $20,000, depending on size and installation specifics.
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Sunturf
- Features: Specializes in custom solar canopies, including carports and awnings. They focus on design flexibility and durability.
- Cost: Installation costs typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on the project scope.
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Solar Carport USA
- Features: Offers prefabricated solar carports that are quick to install and designed for commercial and residential applications.
- Cost: Prices generally start at around $15,000 and can go up to $30,000, depending on customization options.
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Energysage
- Features: This platform connects users with local installers and suppliers, allowing for tailored solutions and competitive pricing.
- Cost: Costs vary widely based on local pricing and available options, but you can find systems starting around $10,000.
At Shielden, we also offer high-quality solar panels and inverters to complement your solar canopy needs. Our products are designed for efficiency and durability, ensuring you get the most out of your solar investment. If you're considering a solar canopy, we can help you find the perfect solution tailored to your energy needs.
