Why a Solar Site Survey is a Game Changer for Your Bus Stop
The success of any bus stop solar installation begins with understanding the unique characteristics of each site. But how do you know? At Urban Solar, we recognize this and offer complimentary site surveys with every system sold to ensure that off-grid installations are set up for solar success. Let’s dive into the importance of a site inspection and how it can transform your approach to solar installations.
Understanding solar site survey inspections
A site inspection is a fundamental value-add for off-grid bus stop amenities installations. At Urban Solar, we evaluate a location's solar potential by assessing key factors such as annual average daily sun exposure, geographical positioning and any potential shading considerations. By understanding the details of each site, this helps to guide the placement and orientation of solar panels to capitalize on the maximum amount of available sunlight. Thorough site surveys ensure optimal placement and performance of solar panels. This enhances the efficiency of each installation while maximizing the lifespan and output of the solar system, demonstrating our commitment to client success and providing industry-leading solar power solutions.
The importance of site classification
"Every city has both good sites and every city has non-viable sites," explains Liam Hamel, Business Development Manager at Urban Solar. We classify sites into categories ranging from 'Good', 'Fair', 'Poor', and 'Non-Viable' based on the percentage of average daily sunlight they receive, especially during the critical winter equinox period. For instance:
Good: 100-75% sun exposure
Fair: 75-50% sun exposure
Poor: 50-35% sun exposure
Non-Viable: Less than 35% sun exposure
This classification helps to identify the most suitable sites for installation while providing transit agencies with the assurance that they are making the most of their investments. Also, it gives a clear 'heads up' on where solar may not be viable without additional adjustments, ensuring peace of mind and a strategic placement of systems.
Tailoring solutions to site conditions
At Urban Solar, we specialize in customizing our bus stop amenity offerings based on site conditions. For sites categorized as 'Poor’ or ‘Non-viable’, like those regularly seen on the bustling, building-filled streets of New York City, we might suggest battery-powered signage and avoiding a solar installation altogether.
In locations like Emeryville, CA, where lowrise buildings can provide a half day of shade and fog may prevail, we deploy systems designed to make the most out of the available light. Running lighting systems on a push button to activate the light ensures that we are able to conserve energy when no one is waiting at the stop and provide lighting when passengers are present.
In cities with an abundance of 'Good' sites like Tempe, AZ, we capitalize on the consistent sunshine to optimize solar system performance and light output across the city’s bus shelters.
Our site survey process
"Our expert team conducts a comprehensive inspection of each stop, evaluating the sun exposure year-round to determine the most effective solutions," says Hamel. The process involves virtual assessments to ensure that every installation is backed by precision and planning. Performing site inspections allows us to offer industry-leading warranty coverage to guarantee the long-term reliability and performance of our installations, reinforcing the trust and confidence transit agencies place in us.
The value of site inspections for clients
You may be wondering, “How does location play a role in solar energy efficiency?” Site inspections are vital in safeguarding an off-grid power investment. By confirming the viability of each location for solar installations, we make sure that the systems will perform efficiently throughout the year and ensure a healthy flow of energy into the systems battery bank.
This proactive approach not only helps to extend the battery life of the system but also sets a foundation for ongoing relationships with our clients, ensuring that they feel supported and are set up for success from the start.
Potential barriers and solutions
Addressing challenges like shading, variable weather patterns or extremely cold temperatures in northern locations require innovative products. On that note, we excel in adapting solar system designs to meet specific site needs to ensure performance in difficult conditions.
Whether it involves implementing variable lighting patterns, integrating push-button activation or utilizing battery-powered displays, our tailored solutions effectively mitigate site-related issues, ensuring optimal performance year-round.
Get in touch with our experts
Whether it’s assessing the best place for solar panels or how to maximize your bus stop efficiency, connect with our experts to discuss your needs and find the best off-grid amenities for your transit environment.
Written by:
Jacqueline Langen
Bio goes here in paragraph format. No more than a few sentences otherwise it will get overwhelming visually.
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