All You Need to Know about Commercial Solar System

Save Money, Reduce your carbon footprint, and Contribute towards a sustainable future.  

With the increase in the number of solar installations each year, the commercial solar market is rapidly booming, and businesses are embracing renewable energy sources.  

Solar systems for the commercial sector are repositioning the clean energy market to flourish based on how the C&I sector operates: predictable energy costs, significant savings, and a great return on investment (ROI).  

This guide will delve into “All you need to know about commercial solar”. 

What is Commercial Solar?

Solar power has been used for decades, but what is commercial solar energy?  

Commercial solar energy or commercial solar power is defined as the power generated by solar energy plants or systems installed on commercial properties for use by C&I sectors.  

Solar energy is a renewable source of energy that helps cut down on energy costs and reduce carbon emissions. Because of this, most businesses, government organizations, and profit and non-profit organizations are switching to commercial solar power systems.

 

Components of Solar Power Plants

Let’s explore the key components of commercial solar power systems, including solar photovoltaic panels, solar inverters, racking and mounts, solar batteries, charge controllers, and a solar power meter. 

1. Solar Photovoltaic Panel

The shiny reflections you see on the glass panels in solar energy systems are the combination of multiple photovoltaic cells that allow solar energy conversion into electricity. Each solar system carries several PV panels for power generation, forming a solar array. 

Solar panels are usually installed on the roof for maximum insolation. However, depending upon their adjustability and portability, they can be fixed on top of a vehicle or ground mounted. These components are also placed at an optimal angle to ensure high sunlight absorption throughout the day.

Solar panels are made from different materials, the most common being crystalline silicon. These come in three types:

• Monocrystalline Panels – Made from a single silicon crystal, these panels offer higher efficiency and are widely used in commercial projects.

• Polycrystalline Panels—These are Composed of multiple silicon crystals. They are budget-friendly but slightly less efficient, making them popular for residential use.

• Thin-film panels—Made with amorphous silicon, thin-film panels are lightweight, flexible, and ideal for portable applications like RVs and camping setups.

 

2. Solar Inverters: Power Conversion Experts

Solar panels generate DC electricity, but most appliances use AC power. Inverters convert DC into usable AC. Types include:

• String Inverters – Centrally convert power from multiple panels but can be affected if one panel underperforms. 

• Microinverters – these are installed on each panel, ensuring individual optimization and better performance in shaded areas.

• Power Optimizers – Improve panel efficiency before sending power to a string inverter, reducing losses due to shading or weather conditions.

 

3. Racking & Mounts: Securing Your Panels

Mounting structures ensure proper placement and durability. Options include:

• Roof Mounts – These are the most common and convenient and are also used on RVs. 

• Ground Mounts – Adjustable for optimal sun exposure, ideal for large spaces. 

• Pole Mounts – Space-efficient, with tracking systems to follow the sun’s path. 

 

4. Solar Batteries: Storing the Sun’s Energy

Batteries store excess electricity to use solar power at night or during outages. Types include: 

• Lithium-ion (most popular due to efficiency and longevity) 

• Lead acid (cost-effective but bulky) 

• Nickel-cadmium & Flow Batteries (used for specific applications) 

 

5. Charge Controllers: Battery Guardians

Regulating the power flow, these devices prevent battery overcharging. Two types: 

• MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) – Enhances efficiency and ensures faster charging. 

• PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) – Prevents overcharging by adjusting power input. 

 

6. Solar Power Meters: Tracking Energy Usage (Optional)

These devices monitor electricity consumption and efficiency, helping homeowners optimize energy use and track excess power sent to the grid.

A well-designed solar power system combines efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring maximum energy savings and sustainability.

 

What is a Solar Rooftop System? 

A solar rooftop system is a photovoltaic system consisting of solar panels installed on the roofs of commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. These panels capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy, generating clean power without producing harmful gases.

Installation Requirements for Commercial Rooftop Solar 

Installing a commercial rooftop solar system requires careful planning to ensure efficiency, safety, and regulation compliance. Here are the key requirements: 

1. Structural Assessment: The building’s roof must be assessed for load-bearing capacity to support solar panels, mounting structures, and additional weight from wind and snow loads. 

1. Space Availability & Orientation: Sufficient shadow-free space is needed for optimal sunlight exposure. South-facing roofs (in the Northern Hemisphere) with a tilt angle matching the latitude are ideal for maximum energy generation. 

1. Permits & Approvals: Businesses must obtain necessary approvals from local authorities, including grid connectivity permissions, net metering, and electrical safety clearances. 

1. Electrical Infrastructure: To integrate solar power with the existing electrical setup, a well-designed wiring system, inverters, and transformers should be in place. Proper earthing and surge protection ensure system safety. 

1. Quality Components: High-efficiency solar panels, inverters, and corrosion-resistant mounting structures ensure longevity and performance. 

1. Installation & Safety Compliance: Certified professionals must install the system, adhering to industry standards and safety guidelines. Proper fire safety measures and maintenance access should be considered. 

1. Monitoring & Maintenance: Remote monitoring systems help track performance, detect faults, and optimize output for long-term benefits.   

A well-planned installation ensures maximum return on investment and contributes to sustainable business operations.

 

Working of Solar Systems for Commercial Rooftop 

The solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells and are installed on the rooftop of a commercial building. These solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into direct current electricity. The generated direct current electri commercial solar power systemscity is transferred to an inverter for the conversion of the direct current (DC) into an alternating current (AC), which is later distributed in the standard form of electricity for commercial and residential use.

 

Benefits of Installing Solar Panels on Commercial Rooftops

• Cost Savings: Reduces electricity bills and provides long-term financial benefits. 

• Sustainability: Lowers carbon footprint and supports corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals. 

• Energy Independence: Reduces reliance on the grid and protects against rising energy costs. 

• Government Incentives: Many governments offer tax credits, rebates, and subsidies for industrial solar installations.

 

Why Choose Amplus for Commercial Solar Systems? 

Standing tall with 2.3+ GWp of operational and under-construction renewable assets, Amplus Solar is a trusted name in India’s commercial and industrial (C&I) clean energy sector. We specialize in OPEX Solar Solutions, allowing businesses to transition to renewable energy with zero upfront investment.

Beyond cost savings and clean energy generation, Amplus is deeply committed to sustainability—helping industries reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring uninterrupted, reliable power. With 650+ projects across 25 states and a strong network of 400+ clients, we have successfully powered industries like Manufacturing, FMCG, Pharma, Retail, Automotive, and more.

Our expertise lies in providing customized solutions tailored to specific business needs, ensuring maximum efficiency and savings. Backed by a dedicated workforce of 300+ professionals, we continue to drive the shift towards a greener future.

Partner with Amplus—where innovation meets sustainability in solar energy.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Commercial Solar System

What is commercial solar energy?

Commercial solar power systems installed on commercial and industrial properties to generate clean electricity, reduce costs, and lower carbon emissions. 

How does a commercial solar rooftop system work?

A commercial solar rooftop system captures sunlight through photovoltaic panels, converts it into direct current (DC) electricity, and transforms an inverter into alternating current (AC) for business operations. 

What are the benefits of commercial solar power system?

Key benefits include significant cost savings on electricity bills, reduced carbon footprint, energy independence, and eligibility for government incentives such as tax credits and rebates. 

What industries can benefit from commercial solar?

Solar energy solutions can benefit industries such as Manufacturing, FMCG, Pharma, Retail, Automotive, Education, Healthcare, and more. 

Why choose Amplus for commercial solar systems?

With 2.3+ GWp renewable assets and 650+ projects across India, Amplus offers OPEX-based industrial solar solutions with zero upfront investment, ensuring reliable and sustainable energy for businesses.