How to Prepare Your Commercial Property for Solar Installation

Introduction

Transitioning to solar energy is a smart investment, but preparing your commercial property properly ensures a smooth installation process and optimal system performance. At Surge, we guide our clients through every preparatory step to maximize efficiency, minimize disruptions, and ensure long-term success. Here’s what commercial property owners should do to get ready for a solar installation.

🏢 Assess Structural Integrity and Roof Condition

Before installation, it’s crucial to evaluate the building’s structural soundness:

• Inspect the roof for wear, damage, or aging materials that may need repair or replacement

• Ensure the roof can support the weight of solar panels and mounting hardware

• Plan roof maintenance ahead of installation to avoid future complications

Surge partners with structural engineers when necessary to ensure safety and compliance.

📄 Gather Energy Usage Data

Understanding your property’s energy profile is key:

• Collect at least 12 months of utility bills to capture seasonal fluctuations

• Provide data on peak demand charges, time-of-use rates, and operational energy patterns

• Identify energy efficiency improvements that can complement the solar system

This data enables us to design a system that meets your actual energy needs and maximizes savings.

🛠️ Evaluate Electrical Infrastructure

Your existing electrical system must be ready to integrate solar:

• Assess the main service panel capacity to accommodate solar input

• Identify any necessary upgrades to wiring, transformers, or switchgear

• Plan for integrating battery storage or EV charging infrastructure if needed

Surge’s technical team ensures that your electrical infrastructure is compatible and future-proof.

🗺️ Review Zoning and Permitting Requirements

Every jurisdiction has specific regulations regarding solar installations:

• Check local zoning laws and property codes for solar allowances or restrictions

• Obtain required permits and approvals from local authorities or utility companies

• Factor in interconnection requirements and timelines

Surge manages the entire permitting process to ensure compliance and avoid delays.

💡 Plan for Operational Continuity

To minimize disruption during installation:

• Schedule work during off-peak business hours or slow seasons when possible

• Communicate with tenants, employees, or stakeholders about the installation timeline

• Prepare for temporary access restrictions or noise considerations

Surge provides a clear project schedule to help you coordinate effectively.

🔍 Engage a Professional Solar Partner Early

Choosing the right partner early simplifies the preparation process:

• Surge conducts comprehensive site assessments and identifies any pre-installation needs

• We help coordinate inspections, permits, and utility communications

• Our turnkey approach means you’re supported from planning to post-installation monitoring

Working with Surge ensures a streamlined, stress-free transition to solar energy.

📝 TLDR Summary

• Assess your roof’s structural integrity and address any necessary repairs

• Gather comprehensive energy usage data for an accurate system design

• Evaluate your electrical infrastructure for compatibility with solar and storage

• Understand and comply with local zoning, permitting, and interconnection rules

• Plan for operational continuity to minimize business disruptions

• Partner with Surge early for expert guidance and seamless project execution