Across the country, commercial solar power is helping increasing numbers of auto dealers save money.
Reducing energy costs is important for dealerships, as electricity is one of their largest overhead expenses. In fact, automotive dealers use about 18 percent more energy per square foot than the average office building.
Efficiency upgrades can help cut energy consumption, but installing a solar power system can make a big dent in dealership operating expenses.
Every day, automotive dealerships use HVAC systems, electric motors — including hydraulic lifts, compressed air systems, bay doors, pressure washers, paint booths and vacuums — and massive amounts of interior and exterior lighting.
A building automation system (BAS), or energy management system, can control all of the equipment and boost efficiency. Swapping out or upgrading some of the equipment may also help reduce energy use.
But even auto dealers with the most efficient equipment and a BAS in place to manage operations still have significant energy costs. Installing a solar power system is a great way to see a drastic drop in utility bills — after all, the sun’s energy is free.
The decrease in electricity costs after adding a solar installation can be rather impressive. According to some industry experts, adopting solar power could bring savings in an amount equal to selling two or three more cars per month.
Because of how they are designed, many automotive dealerships are quite well-suited to support a solar power system.
Many auto dealership buildings have large, flat roofs. Flat roofing can be ideal for mounting photovoltaic panels, as the modules can be perfectly positioned to face the sun.
Most dealers also have the space to install solar-powered carports. Carports can shield vehicles (and customers) from the elements and generate free electricity for the dealership.
The automotive market is highly competitive, and the value of installing a commercial solar power system should not be underestimated.
These days, consumers are drawn to businesses that are eco-friendly. Using the power of the sun to create electricity is a smart marketing move for any business, as it demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability.
As many automotive dealers sell similar vehicles, owners need to seek out ways to stand out and get noticed. Shifting to solar power can help achieve that goal. With photovoltaic panels installed, the owner can market the dealership as environmentally responsible.
Intermountain Wind & Solar, the region’s leading renewable energy contractor, offers a range of solar power systems designed to meet the needs of auto dealers throughout Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Nevada and Wyoming. For more information or to schedule a commercial solar consultation, contact us today.
"All of the photos on this website are of real projects that Intermountain Wind & Solar has designed and installed.
We are proud to show off and stand behind our work."
