50kW Commercial Solar System
What is a 50kW Commercial Solar System?
A 50kW commercial solar system is a robust photovoltaic (PV) system designed for medium-sized businesses, schools, and offices looking to lower their energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint. With the rising cost of electricity and growing demand for sustainable energy solutions, solar systems have become an essential investment for businesses. The 50kW system is particularly advantageous because it strikes a balance between large-scale energy generation and affordability, providing enough electricity to significantly offset the energy consumption of most commercial operations.
This system can handle peak energy loads during working hours, making it ideal for businesses that operate primarily during the day. By installing a 50kW system, companies not only save on electricity costs but also contribute to a greener environment by reducing their reliance on grid electricity, which is largely generated from fossil fuels.
How Many Solar Panels Does a 50kW Commercial Solar System Have?
The number of solar panels in a 50kW solar system depends on the power rating of each panel. Most modern solar panels range from 440W to 500W. Based on this, a typical 50kW system will require between 125 to 150 panels.
For instance, using 440W panels will require approximately 114 panels, whereas using 500W panels will reduce the number of panels to around 100. The choice of panel size depends on factors such as the available roof space and budget. Higher-wattage panels are generally more efficient, requiring fewer panels, but they tend to cost more upfront. This flexibility allows businesses to tailor their systems based on their specific needs.
| Panel Capacity | Number of Panels |
|---|---|
| 440W | 114 panels |
| 475W | 106 panels |
| 500W | 100 panels |
The number of panels required decreases as the wattage per panel increases, allowing businesses to save space while still achieving the desired energy output.
How Much Electricity Does a 50kW Commercial Solar System Produce?
The amount of electricity a 50kW system produces depends largely on its location, sunlight exposure, and the efficiency of the panels. In Australia, for example, a 50kW system will typically generate between 200 kWh to 220 kWh of electricity per day, depending on the city. This equates to roughly 73,000 to 80,000 kWh per year.
This daily production is influenced by several factors, such as the tilt and orientation of the panels, the presence of shading, and the local climate. Solar systems installed in areas with high sunlight exposure, like Brisbane, will produce more electricity than those in less sunny regions like Melbourne.
| Location | Average Daily Production (kWh) | Annual Production (kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | 200-210 kWh | 73,000-76,650 kWh |
| Melbourne | 180-190 kWh | 66,000-69,350 kWh |
| Brisbane | 210-220 kWh | 76,650-80,300 kWh |
This level of production is sufficient to power medium-sized businesses, significantly reducing reliance on grid electricity, particularly during peak hours.
What Are the NSW Rebates for a 50kW Commercial Solar System?
Businesses in New South Wales (NSW) can take advantage of the federal Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES), which provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) to reduce the upfront cost of solar installations. The number of STCs a system is eligible for depends on its size and location, with a 50kW system typically qualifying for a rebate of around AUD 15,000 to AUD 20,000
STCs can be sold or assigned to the installer to significantly reduce the overall installation cost. Additionally, businesses may also qualify for other incentives and tax deductions under the federal government’s Instant Asset Write-Off scheme, which allows companies to deduct the full cost of the system in the year it is installed.
How Long Will it Take for the System to Pay for Itself?
The payback period for a 50kW system typically ranges between 3 to 5 years, depending on several factors such as the cost of installation, energy consumption, electricity prices, and available government incentives.
Businesses can expect to save between AUD 12,000 to AUD 18,000 per year on electricity bills, depending on their location and energy usage. These savings can increase if the business consumes a large portion of the solar energy produced, reducing the amount of electricity drawn from the grid. Additionally, some businesses may be eligible for feed-in tariffs, which provide further savings by paying for any excess electricity sent back to the grid.
What is the Cost of a 50kW Commercial Solar System?
The cost of a 50kW commercial solar system can vary significantly based on several factors, including the quality of the solar panels, the brand of the inverter, and the complexity of the installation. Typically, businesses can expect to pay between AUD 34,000 to AUD 42,000 for a high-quality installation.
This price range accounts for the installation of good-quality solar panels and inverters that meet Australian standards. Premium systems that use more advanced technologies or include extended warranties and additional features will generally be more expensive. The initial investment may seem high, but the long-term savings on electricity costs, combined with potential government incentives, make it a cost-effective solution in the long run.
| System Type | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Standard 50kW System | $32,000 to $42,000 |
| Premium 50kW System (High-end panels) | $55,000 to $65,000 |
| 50kW System with Basic Features | $40,000 to $45,000 |
| 50kW System with Advanced Features | $60,000 to $65,000 |
| 50kW System with Battery Storage | $70,000 to $120,000 (with battery) |
The cost can vary depending on the quality of components, the complexity of the installation, and whether additional features like battery storage are included.
Inverter and System Performance
A 50kW commercial solar system is usually paired with a 50kW inverter or a combination of smaller inverters that convert the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) used by businesses. The inverter is a crucial component of the system, and choosing a high-quality, grid-compliant inverter is essential to ensure efficiency and reliability.
Modern inverters often come with built-in monitoring features that allow businesses to track real-time energy production and system performance through mobile apps or web platforms. This ensures that any issues with the system are detected early, allowing for quick troubleshooting and minimal downtime.
Considerations for Battery Storage
While a 50kW solar system can significantly reduce electricity bills by generating power during the day, adding a battery storage system allows businesses to store excess energy for use during the evening or when sunlight is insufficient. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that operate outside regular daylight hours or in regions prone to power outages.
A battery storage system can also help reduce peak demand charges by providing stored energy during periods of high electricity usage. The recommended battery size for a 50kW system ranges from 30kWh to 100kWh, depending on the business’s energy needs and usage patterns.
What Are the Cost Implications of Adding a Battery?
The cost of adding a battery storage system to a 50kW solar installation depends on the size and brand of the battery. On average, businesses can expect to pay between AUD 30,000 to AUD 70,000 for a commercial-grade battery system. Battery prices have been steadily decreasing, and with advancements in battery technology, the cost is expected to continue dropping in the coming years.
Despite the initial cost, adding a battery can further increase energy savings by allowing businesses to use stored solar energy during peak times when grid electricity is most expensive. This can significantly reduce the payback period and increase long-term savings.
What Warranties Are Included with a 50kW Commercial Solar System?
Most 50kW Commercial System come with robust warranties, including:
Panel Warranty
Typically 10-25 years for performance guarantees.
Inverter Warranty
Generally 5-10 years.
Workmanship Warranty
Installers often provide a 5-10 year warranty on installation work
Ready to Install a 50kW Commercial Solar System?
Take the first step toward reducing your business’s electricity costs and carbon footprint by investing in a 50kW solar system. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and receive custom quotes from certified installers.