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Why get solar for retail
Grow Your Green Image
New Zealanders are more aware than ever of the impact that the business operations around them are having on the environment. Become a community-conscious business leader and take the next step in reducing your carbon footprint with the clean, green energy of solar power for your business.
Free Up Cash Flow
Utility and power bills can take a huge bite out of the bottom line of any business - and with many retailers needing to work within slim profit margins, any opportunity to cut costs and free up cash flow for investment elsewhere should be welcomed. Solar power offers the opportunity to reduce your outgoings on electricity, instantly, and with the right system, ensure you never have to pay a power bill again.
Stay Secure In Your Energy Needs
The grid doesn’t always work when we need it to. By taking control of your own power generation, you are ensuring that your business can continue operating when and where you need it to, even if the grid goes down. Independence is the goal for many retail business owners - solar power offers a tangible way to achieve it with your enterprise.
Retail solar
case study
Sawmill Brewery wanted to offset their energy-intensive operations and create a greener brewery to allow them to live their community-oriented values.
54 Panels
ZEN Energy installed a 16.2kW solar generation system, consisting of54 LONGi monocrystalline panels and a Huawei 3-phase inverter
23.5MWh
Final system was able to generate 23.5 MWh peryear, significantly reducing costs and impressing on-site guests
Process
Brewing is a high-octane activity in power terms, with the average barrel of beer taking between 50 to 66 kWh to make, according to the Brewer’s Association. The Sawmill Brewery team approached ZEN Energy to investigate their options in solar power generation, primarily to offset this high electricity usage.
"Building a sustainable brewery operation is fundamental to us. We wanted a brewery our customers, community and team could be proud of. Our electricity usage was a concern (brewing being an energy-intensive activity), so we investigated the use of solar panels for power.”
Following an investigation by the ZEN Energy team, work began in October 2018 on a solar energy system tailored to their specific needs and industrial requirements: a16.2kW system, made up of more than four dozen LONGi solar panels and a paired Huawei solar inverter.
“We are generating even more solar power than we expected, resulting in real savings, and have had excellent feedback from visitors to the brewery.”
“For our team it is gratifying to take this huge step forward in being a business that has a positive impact on its environment. We are all about independence and resourcefulness at Sawmill and ZEN Energy have been immensely supportive of this."
Savings
With its newly installed solar power system, the Sawmill Brewery premises was able to save $3,500 a year, as well as grow their brand as an environmentally conscious retailer and restaurant among their New Zealand audience.
Reinvent How
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frequently asked questions
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What benefits can solar energy provide to my retail business?
Installing a solar energy system for your retail business can offer several benefits, including significant cost savings on energy bills, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner environment, and improving your business's reputation as a sustainable and socially responsible company. Additionally, solar power can provide your business with a reliable source of energy that is not subject to price fluctuations or supply disruptions.
How much can a retail business save on energy bills with a solar energy system?
A retail business can potentially save a significant amount on energy bills with a solar energy system. The exact amount depends on factors such as the size of the system, the location and amount of sunlight received, and the current energy rates. On average, businesses can see savings of up to 50% on their energy bills after installing a solar energy system. Over the long term, the savings can add up to thousands of dollars.
What types of retail businesses are good candidates for solar energy systems?
Solar energy systems are a great fit for a wide range of retail businesses, including supermarkets, big-box stores, and small shops. Any retail business that uses a significant amount of energy during daylight hours can benefit from solar power, which can provide substantial savings on energy bills. Additionally, retail businesses that prioritise sustainable practices can benefit from the positive public image associated with using renewable energy.
Can solar panels be installed on any type of retail building?
Yes, solar panels can be installed on most types of retail buildings, including stand-alone stores, strip malls, and large shopping centres. However, the feasibility of the installation will depend on factors such as the size and orientation of the roof or available land, local zoning regulations, and the existing electrical infrastructure. A professional and qualified solar installation company like ZEN Energy can help evaluate the site and determine the best solar solution for your specific retail business.
How does a solar energy system for a retail business work?
A solar energy system for a retail business works by converting sunlight into electricity using solar panels. The solar panels are installed on the roof or another suitable location of the retail building and absorb sunlight during the day. The energy generated is then fed into an inverter, which converts it into usable electricity for the retail business to power their operations. Any excess energy can be stored in a battery or sold back to the grid. This process allows the retail business to use clean and renewable energy, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and lowering their energy costs over time.
What happens to my solar energy system on cloudy or rainy days?
On cloudy or rainy days, the solar panels will still produce electricity, although it may be at a lower efficiency compared to a sunny day. However, most solar energy systems are designed to generate excess electricity during sunny days, which can be stored in batteries or sent back to the grid. This stored energy can then be used on cloudy or rainy days, ensuring that your retail business will still have a reliable source of electricity.
Can a retail business run completely on solar energy?
Yes, it is possible for a retail business to run completely on solar energy with a properly sized solar energy system. However, this will depend on the energy needs of the business and the size of the solar system installed. In some cases, the retail business may need to remain connected to the grid to ensure a stable energy supply. A professional and qualified solar installation company like ZEN Energy can help determine the appropriate size and capacity of a solar energy system to meet the energy demands of your retail business.
How can a retail business monitor the performance of its solar energy system?
A retail business can monitor the performance of its solar energy system through a variety of methods, including online monitoring tools and regular physical inspections. Online monitoring tools allow business owners to view real-time data on their system's energy production, which can help them identify any issues or inefficiencies. Physical inspections can also help detect any problems and ensure that the system is functioning properly. It's recommended to have regular maintenance checks on the system to ensure maximum performance and longevity.
What kind of return on investment can a retail business expect from a solar energy system installation?
A retail business can expect a significant return on investment from a solar energy system installation. The amount of savings depends on factors such as the size of the system, the amount of electricity used by the business, and the cost of electricity in the area. However, a solar energy system can pay for itself in as little as 3-5 years and continue to provide savings for many years to come. Additionally, a solar energy system can increase the value of the property and improve the business's environmental sustainability.
What permits and regulations are required for a retail solar energy system installation?
To install a solar energy system for your retail business, you will need to comply with certain permits and regulations. The specific requirements may vary depending on your location and the size of the system, so it's important to consult with a professional installer who is familiar with local regulations. Generally, you will need to obtain permits for electrical and structural work, and ensure that your system meets safety and code requirements. Additionally, you may need to apply for any applicable rebates or incentives to offset the cost of installation. A A professional and qualified solar installation company like ZEN Energy will be able to guide you through the process and ensure that your system is installed safely and legally.