Rooftop solar systems applied to carports and large parking lots offer a multifaceted solution. They provide clean energy, shelter from the elements, and a platform for EV charging. They transform otherwise underutilized spaces into valuable assets, creating a more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective parking experience for users and stakeholders. This approach is expected to become more widespread as the need for renewable energy and EV charging continues to grow.

1. Dual-Purpose Infrastructure: Shelter and Energy Generation:

The primary advantage is that the solar panels act as both a source of clean energy and a roof, providing shade and protection from the elements.

Benefits:

Shade and Weather Protection: Protects parked vehicles from harsh sun, rain, snow, and hail, reducing vehicle wear and tear.

Reduced Vehicle Interior Temperature: Keeps parked cars cooler during hot weather, improving comfort for drivers and passengers.

Space Optimization: Utilizes otherwise underutilized space, transforming parking areas into energy-generating assets.

Cost-Effective Solution: By combining solar infrastructure with shelter, it reduces the need for separate shade structures.

2. Powering On-Site Operations and Lighting:

The generated solar energy can be used to power on-site operations and lighting in the parking area.

Benefits:

Reduced Electricity Costs: Lowers electricity bills by powering lighting, security systems, and other electrical needs.

Parking Lot Lighting: Provides reliable and cost-effective lighting for safe and secure parking at night.

Security Systems: Supports security cameras and other monitoring systems within the parking area.

Signage and Wayfinding: Powers illuminated signage and wayfinding systems to help customers navigate.

3. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure:

Carport solar systems can be directly integrated with EV charging stations.

Benefits:

Sustainable Charging Solution: Provides a clean and renewable source of energy for charging electric vehicles, lowering the carbon footprint of transportation.

Reduced Charging Costs: Lowers the cost of operating EV chargers through on-site solar generation.

Attract EV Drivers: Makes the parking facility more attractive to electric vehicle owners.

Future-Proofing: Prepares the parking area for the growing adoption of EVs.

Potential Revenue Generation: Charging stations can be offered as a paid service, providing additional revenue for the facility.

4. Enhanced User Experience and Aesthetics:

Well-designed solar carports can improve the overall aesthetics of a parking area and enhance the user experience.

Benefits:

Modern and Appealing Design: Adds a modern architectural element to the parking area, improving its visual appeal.

Improved Comfort and Convenience: Makes the parking area more comfortable and convenient for users by providing shade and weather protection.

Sustainable Image: Projects a progressive and eco-conscious image for the parking area and its owner.

5. Backup Power and Resilience:

Solar carports combined with battery storage can provide a backup power source during grid outages.

Benefits:

Emergency Lighting: Ensures continued lighting during power failures.

Security System Backup: Keeps security systems operational during emergencies.

EV Charging During Outages: In some cases, can provide limited EV charging capabilities during grid disruptions.

Business Continuity: Reduces the impact of power outages on parking area operations.

6. Revenue Generation (Net Metering/Feed-in Tariffs):

If the solar system generates more electricity than the parking area needs, the excess can be sold back to the grid in regions with net metering programs.

Benefits:

Additional Revenue Stream: Generates revenue from excess energy, improving the return on investment.

Reduced Operating Costs: Helps to offset the cost of the solar installation.