What is a Solar Carport?

A solar carport is a structure that combines the benefits of a car shelter with solar power. Unlike traditional carports, which provide shade and weather protection for parked vehicles, solar carports have solar panels installed on top. This setup turns the parking lot into a power station, providing both energy and utilities.

How does a solar carport work?

Solar carports work similarly to rooftop solar installations. Solar panels are mounted on top of the carport, angled to capture maximum sunlight. The panels then convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to power buildings, charge electric vehicles (EVs) or be stored in battery systems. By turning parking lots into energy, solar carports offer an efficient way to generate electricity without taking up additional ground or roof space.

Benefits of installing a solar carport

1. Efficient use of space One of the most significant benefits of a solar carport is its ability to turn an unused parking space into a usable power source. Solar carports require no additional land, making them ideal for urban areas, commercial lots and residential settings where space is limited.
2. Vehicle Protection Solar carports provide shade, reduce heat build-up on parked vehicles, and protect vehicles from UV rays, rain and snow. This extra layer of protection can extend the life of your vehicle while also improving interior comfort.
3. Energy Production and Conservation Solar carports produce clean, renewable energy that helps reduce dependence on grid power, ultimately lowering electricity costs. By using energy generated on their own property, businesses and homeowners can save on energy bills in the long term. Some commercial facilities even have car charging stations under solar carports, making it easier for electric vehicle owners to use solar charging.
4. Sustainable Green Energy Since solar energy is renewable, solar carports are an environmentally friendly way to meet your energy needs. They can significantly reduce a building’s carbon footprint, providing clean energy that helps lower greenhouse gas emissions. SIC Solar’s carport mounting systems are designed with durability and sustainability in mind, providing a reliable foundation for solar power generation.
5. Income Generation For commercial parking lots, solar carports can serve as an additional source of income. By offering solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations, businesses can attract electric vehicle customers and potentially charge fees for use of the charging stations. Additionally, if excess energy is generated, it can be sold back to the grid in certain areas, creating an additional revenue stream.

Solar carport design types

1. Single Row Carports Single row carports are suitable for smaller parking areas and are typically used on residential or smaller commercial premises. They cover a row of parking spaces, providing shade and power generation to a limited area.
2. Double-Row Carports Double-Row Carports are designed to cover two rows of parking spaces and are typically used on commercial lots. They maximize energy production and provide more shade, making them ideal for larger spaces.
3. Cantilever Carports Cantilever solar carports are supported on posts on only one side, improving vehicle accessibility and maneuverability. These designs provide excellent structural stability and reduce the number of columns, creating a more open layout.

Things to note when installing a solar carport

1. Site Analysis Proper site analysis is crucial before installing a solar carport. Factors such as sunlight, shading from nearby buildings and available space can all affect installation. Conducting a shading analysis and positioning the carport to receive the most sunlight will optimize energy production.
2. Structural Requirements A solar carport must be designed to bear the weight of the solar panels and withstand weather conditions. SIC Solar offers sturdy mounting systems for solar carports with high load-bearing capacity and corrosion-resistant materials to ensure a long-lasting installation.
3. Angle and Orientation To capture maximum sunlight, solar panels on a carport should be angled and positioned correctly. Typically, the optimal angle matches the latitude of the site, but adjustments may need to be made based on specific requirements.
4. Electrical connection The energy generated by the solar carport must be connected to the building’s electrical system or to the external grid. Proper wiring and inverter installation are critical for safe and efficient energy transfer, and battery storage can be added for enhanced energy management.

Application of solar carport

1. Commercial Parking Lots Solar carports in commercial parking lots serve a dual purpose, providing shade and generating electricity. They are popular in office buildings, shopping malls and municipal parking lots with plenty of open parking spaces. Additionally, installing electric vehicle charging stations under solar carports can attract more visitors and generate additional revenue.
2. Residential Properties Homeowners can install smaller solar carports to generate electricity for home use, reduce energy bills, and provide shelter for their vehicles. Residential solar carports are a great way to enjoy the benefits of solar energy without having to modify the main roof structure.
3. Educational and Governmental Institutions Schools, universities and government buildings often have extensive parking lots suitable for installing solar carports. These facilities not only provide clean energy but also serve as educational tools to raise awareness about renewable energy and sustainability.

SIC Solar ​​expertise in solar carport installation systems

With experience in producing high-quality mounting systems for a wide range of solar installations, SIC Solar offers solutions specifically designed for solar carports. Their mounting systems are designed to withstand a variety of environmental conditions, ensuring that solar carports are durable, safe, and efficient. SIC Solar products focus on adaptability, supporting a variety of solar carport designs to suit residential and commercial needs.