For many larger businesses, a 100kW commercial solar system with competitive pricing makes sense. The monthly energy costs can be a significant economic burden. As electricity costs rise, many business owners are looking for more budget-friendly alternatives.
A 100kW commercial solar system is considered a good choice for medium to large businesses, especially those who struggle with high electricity costs. By installing solar panels your business may be more or less self-sufficient when it comes to electricity.
By going solar your business may not only save money. You will also be able to use clean and renewable power, which is a great way for businesses to improve their brand. Invest in solar technology, and prove that your business is embracing eco-friendly solutions.
Here is everything you need to know about large 100kW commercial solar panel systems!
How much electricity will be generated by a 100kW solar system?
Unfortunately, there is no straightforward answer to this. The energy amount that is generated by a solar system, will depend on both system efficiency and the location. Different parts of Australia might have more or less sunlight hours than others.
If your business is located in Brisbane, you might expect it to produce more electricity than an identical system would produce in Hobart.
In general, you might expect a 100 kW solar panel system for commercial use to generate as much as 150.000 kWh of electricity a year. In other words, the system will most likely have an energy output of 411 kWh a day.
How much roof space will a 100kW solar system require?
To be able to have a big solar panel system, you will also need a large surface facing towards the sun (usually a roof).
A standard solar panel measures 1 x 1.6 m, and each panel has an efficiency of around 300 watts. To power a 100 kW solar panel system, you would then need 334 panels. These would require around 534 m2 of roof space.
Keep in mind that some solar panels are more or less efficient than others. Less efficient 275-watt panels will require more roof space (582 m2), while more efficient 359-watt panels will require less roof space (458 m2).
Are there any solar rebates for businesses?
Yes, Australian businesses will receive a government solar rebate through the Renewable Energy Council scheme. The rebate size might vary based on both location and system size.
Australia is divided into four different rebate zones, based on the solar radiation levels in different areas. A business located in one zone might receive a bigger rebate than a business located in another zone.
Also, the system size will matter. For solar systems smaller than 100 kW, it is possible to receive an STC (Small-scale Technology Certificate) rebate. For a 100 kW solar system (or larger), you will be able to get a LGC (Large-scale Generation Certificate) rebate.
The LGC rebate is not given up-front like the STC rebate. Instead, you will receive an annual rebate based on the amount of energy produced by your solar system. The value of a LGC certificate varies, which means the rebate size might vary from year to year.
What does a 100kW commercial solar system cost?
When buying a solar panel system, you will be able to choose between different PV panels, inverters and solar batteries. If you buy a highly efficient quality system, it might affect the price.
However, solar prices have dropped significantly over the last years, as more manufacturers and solar products have entered the Australian market. Because of this, solar panel systems are more affordable in 2024 than they were 10 years ago.
The price might also be affected by your location, as the government offers a LGC rebate. Here is the approximate price of a 100 kW solar system in different parts of Australia:
- ACT: $65,000 to $80,000
- South Australia: $65,000 to $80,000
- Queensland: $65,000 to $80,000
- New South Wales: $65,000 to $80,000
- Western Australia: $65,000 to $80,000
- Victoria: $75,000 to $80,000
- Tasmania: $85,000 to $95,000
Is a 100kW solar panel system worth it (for businesses)?
Yes! Many large businesses will benefit from installing a 100kW solar panel system, as this will lower the electricity bill significantly. However, it is important to make sure that a 100kW system is the right size for your business to make the investment worth it.
Expected payback period for 100kW solar system
How long will it take for your 100kW solar system to pay for itself? In most cases, the payback period is somewhere between 3 and 5 years. However, many factors may affect the payback period, including rebate size, electricity prices and system efficiency.
How to get started?
If you are interested in a 100kW solar panel system, you should get at least 3 Quotes from Clean Energy Council (CEC) listed installers. The installer will help find the optimum solar system for your business.
After inspecting the property, the installer may give you a price quote.