Solar Canopies Cover More Than Just Parking

A solar PV canopy is an elevated structure that hoists solar panels in overhead locations such as parking lots or other paved areas. Cars can park beneath, taking advantage of the shaded area. Many solar canopies incorporate charging stations so that drivers of electric vehicles can recharge with solar power while parked. 

Because of their visibility and user-friendly parking experiences, solar canopies often bring education and awareness of solar energy to the public. Though they require more steel, solar canopies are similar to ground-mounted solar panels in practice. Both provide an alternative to rooftop solar, if a roof can’t support solar panels or because a property’s electricity needs are too large for a rooftop solar system.

Canopies are the most expensive on a $/watt basis but provide more benefits than a roof or ground mount system. Those benefits include covered parking, greater visibility, and architectural appeal. Some of the added costs are due to structural aesthetics, galvanized finishes, paint, and grade coating.

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SOLAR CANOPY OPTION 1

Tee-Style Canopies:

Tee-style solar canopies are the most cost-effective solution for businesses looking to harness solar energy while utilizing parking or outdoor spaces. Supported by a durable I-beam post, these canopies feature a single steel beam at the top, forming a structure that resembles the letter “T.” Mounted to this beam are Z-shaped or tubular purlins that securely hold the solar panels in place. The simplicity of this design reduces material and installation costs, making it an economical choice for large-scale projects. Tee-style canopies provide reliable shading, weather protection, and clean energy generation without compromising on functionality or efficiency.

SOLAR CANOPY OPTION 2

Truss-Style Canopies:

Truss-style solar canopies offer enhanced strength and flexibility, making them an excellent choice for projects requiring longer spans or greater weight-bearing capacity. These canopies use steel tubes instead of traditional I-beam posts and incorporate a latticework of steel trusses at the top of the structure. This design not only increases structural integrity but also allows for larger coverage areas with fewer posts, maximizing usable space underneath. Truss-style canopies are ideal for businesses that need robust, scalable solutions for high-demand applications, combining durability and performance with clean energy production.

SOLAR CANOPY OPTION 3

Inverted-Style Canopies:

Inverted-style solar canopies stand out with their subtle V-shaped design at the top of the support posts, offering a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality. Available in both Tee-style and Truss-style formats, these canopies are often chosen for their sleek, modern appearance that complements architectural spaces. Beyond aesthetics, the inverted design can channel rainwater to the middle of the canopy, aiding in water collection or drainage systems. Perfect for businesses prioritizing visual appeal alongside sustainability, inverted-style canopies enhance the overall look and purpose of parking lots or outdoor areas.

SOLAR CANOPY OPTION 4

Custom-Shape Canopies:

Custom-shape solar canopies provide unmatched flexibility and design options, allowing businesses to tailor their canopies to match unique architectural needs. Whether featuring rounded tops, curved layouts to align with parking lot designs, or other creative configurations, custom canopies elevate both the functionality and appearance of a space. While these are the most expensive option, they offer the opportunity to create a solar solution that aligns with the brand identity of the business. Custom-shape canopies are ideal for companies looking to make a statement while promoting sustainability.

ADDITIONAL SOLAR CANOPY OPTIONS

Additional Canopy Customization Options:

Solar canopies can be customized to reflect the unique identity of a business or project. Posts can be painted or powder-coated in various colors, or left with their galvanized finish for a modern industrial look. For added visual appeal, posts can be wrapped in materials like brick or stone, mounted flush to the ground, or elevated on pillars. Support materials can be uniquely designed, with options like bamboo posts or beams replacing traditional metal. Functional or aesthetic lighting can also be integrated, with options ranging from practical illumination for parking areas to artistic lighting designs featuring color elements. These customizations ensure that solar canopies not only provide clean energy but also enhance the appearance and functionality of the space.