What is a solar carport?

A solar carport is a steel structure that provides shelter for vehicles at the same time as generating clean renewable energy from the sun. The energy generated can be used in place of, or in conjunction with, traditional energy used onsite. There is an option to add electric vehicle (EV) charge points so that any EVs can be charged whilst they are parked.

Solar carports can be installed as complete units in their own right, or by installing a roof-mounted solar PV system onto an existing roof space.

Are solar carports aesthetically pleasing?

As you would expect with any solar PV system, the carport would need to be positioned to ensure it receives the strongest sunlight. The great thing about solar carports is that they can be designed to fit into the natural surroundings of your business.

A solar carport’s added benefit is that it creates a great parking experience by protecting your staff, visitors and their vehicles from the elements, while generating green energy.

So as well as being functional, yes, they can be aesthetically pleasing!

A managed solution

When managing the installation of a solar carport, we will manage the project from start to finish. This will include the planning, foundation works, and construction, through to the installation of the PV components and connection to the grid.

As solar carports grow in their popularity, the technology behind it improves. Today, a solar carport is a turnkey construction, making it a fast solution to design and install.

Typically, we also carry out the servicing and maintenance of your solar carport to ensure it continues to run as it should.

Make a sustainability statement

If you’re considering investing in a solar carport, you can choose from a dual parking space right through to an entire commercial carpark. Obviously, the size you choose will impact the financial outlay and associated solar return on investment; the bigger the carport, the greater the investment, but the greater the sustainable rewards.

Regardless of the option you decide is best for your company and/or budget, you will still visibly make a sustainability statement which can help improve corporate reputation.

What is the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)?

The good news is that eligible businesses can apply for support towards the upfront costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle (EV) charge points through the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS).

The WCS is run by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and administered by the DVLA. Businesses, charities and public sector organisations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland can apply for the voucher-based scheme so long as the system is installed by an OLEV-approved installer.

There is also a grant for state-funded education institutes to provide support towards the costs of the purchase, installation and infrastructure of electric vehicle chargepoints.