Frequently Asked Questions

Here's our most frequently asked questions about commercial solar. If you have a question not listed, don't hesitate to reach out.
What federal incentives are available for commercial solar?

Most Texas commercial projects qualify for the thirty percent Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) plus potential ten percent bonus credits for domestic content, Energy Community locations, or low income facilities. Businesses may also use accelerated depreciation (MACRS) or Direct Pay for tax exempt entities.

Does my utility company offer rebates for installing solar?

Yes. Many Texas utilities offer rebates or performance-based incentives, including CPS Energy (San Antonio), Austin Energy, and Oncor. These programs can significantly lower project cost and can be combined with federal incentives.

What size system do I need to install?

Sizing is a very important factor when purchasing a solar system. If you install a system that is too large, you will be exporting excess power for pennies on the dollar. Big Sun Solar will collect your energy bills and size a system that meets your needs and goals. In general, we try to stay around a 75% to 80% energy offset in order to minimize the energy that is sold back to the grid. In some cases we are limited by the amount of solar your property can physically support, in other cases we are limited by the size of your energy bill.

Do I need to replace my roof before installing solar?

If your roof is in good condition and has at least ten years of remaining life, you likely do not need a replacement. If repairs or replacement are necessary, they can be coordinated before installation to avoid future complications.

Will installing solar void my roof warranty?

No. We work very closely with your roofing company to ensure that your roof warranty stays intact. On TPO roofs, we install TPO pads under each one of our ballast bays. This ensures that only TPO is touching your TPO roof. If a roof penetration is needed, we coordinate with your roofing company and have them seal the penetration or have them approve our seal so that your roof warranty stays in place.

How long do solar panels last?

Most commercial solar panels last 30 to 40 years. Manufacturers guarantee performance for 25 to 30 years, and panels continue producing energy beyond that period at reduced output.

Will my solar panels get damaged by hail?

Solar panels are engineered and certified to resist hail impact up to one inch at fifty miles per hour, which meets the UL 61730 standard. While severe storms can cause damage, it is uncommon. If a rare event does occur, panels are typically covered under property insurance.

How much does a commercial solar system cost?

Commercial solar pricing varies based on system size, roof or ground structure, electrical design, and equipment selection. Most commercial systems fall within a range of two to four dollars per watt before incentives. After the federal Investment Tax Credit and depreciation benefits, the net cost is significantly lower.

How long does it take to install commercial solar?

Most commercial projects require two to four months of design, engineering, permitting, and utility approval before construction begins. Installation typically takes two to eight weeks depending on project size, roof type, and weather conditions.

Will installing solar disrupt my business operations?

In most cases, no. Installation crews work outside the building, and interior electrical work is scheduled to minimize downtime. Most businesses remain fully operational throughout the project.

Can solar lower my business’s demand charges?

Yes. Solar reduces daytime peak usage, which directly lowers demand charges for many commercial customers. When paired with battery storage, even deeper reductions are possible through peak shaving.

Can solar work with EV chargers at my facility?

Yes. Solar can be paired with EV chargers to offset charging costs, lower demand spikes, and support fleet electrification. Solar carports are especially effective for EV infrastructure.

What is the lifespan of a commercial solar system?

Most commercial systems last 30 to 40 years. Panels typically carry a 25 to 30 year performance warranty and continue producing energy beyond that period at slightly lower efficiency.

What happens if my solar system underperforms?

Big Sun Solar provides ongoing monitoring and service to ensure your system meets expected performance. Underperformance is quickly identified, diagnosed, and corrected to keep your system operating reliably.

How does solar increase my property value?

Solar lowers operating costs and stabilizes long term energy pricing, which makes a property more attractive to buyers and tenants. For commercial facilities, reduced utility expenses often translate directly into higher NOI.

Do I need permission from my utility to install solar?

Yes. Every commercial system requires an interconnection agreement with the utility. Big Sun Solar handles this process from application through approval.

Can solar eliminate my electricity bill?

Solar can significantly reduce your bill, but most commercial customers still rely on the grid for nighttime or high demand periods. Battery storage can further reduce grid usage, but full elimination is uncommon.

Can my business sell excess solar energy?

In many parts of Texas, businesses can receive credits or compensation for excess solar energy sent back to the grid. In deregulated areas, Retail Electric Providers offer buyback programs at different rates and structures. Some regulated utilities also offer approved solar buyback programs for commercial customers. Availability and pricing vary by service territory, so selecting the right provider is important for maximizing the value of exported energy.

Do solar panels work during a power outage?

Not by themselves. For safety, solar arrays automatically shut down if the grid goes out. When paired with battery storage, however, your facility can operate in backup mode.

Can battery storage help during ERCOT price spikes?

Yes. Batteries allow your facility to avoid consuming grid power during high price intervals and can participate in 4CP peak management, reducing transmission charges for the following year.

How does battery storage work with solar?

Solar panels generate energy during the day. Any excess can charge the battery, which then powers the facility during peak hours, outages, or high-price events.

How long will a commercial battery last?

Most commercial lithium-ion battery systems have a ten year warranty and a typical lifespan of twelve to fifteen years depending on cycling and operating conditions.

Does solar require maintenance?

Maintenance is minimal. Big Sun provides ongoing monitoring, annual inspections, inverter service, and optional panel cleaning where needed.

What is the payback period for commercial solar?

Most Texas commercial systems pay back in four to seven years depending on utility territory, size, and incentives.

How do utility interconnection approvals work?

Big Sun handles all submissions, drawings, and communication with your utility. Approval timelines differ by market but typically range from a few weeks to a few months.

Does my roof need structural reinforcement for solar?

Most commercial roofs already meet load requirements. A structural engineer reviews each site to confirm load capacity and code compliance.

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