Comparing Solar Carports vs. Traditional Solar Panels: Which is Better?

As the world continues to shift towards renewable energy, homeowners and businesses alike are exploring ways to harness solar power. Among the many options available, solar carports and traditional rooftop solar panels have emerged as popular choices. Both options offer the opportunity to reduce energy costs, decrease carbon footprints, and promote sustainability. However, choosing between the two can be a bit tricky. In this post, we’ll compare solar carports and traditional solar panels to help you determine which is better for your needs.

What is a Solar Carport?

A solar carport is a structure that combines a traditional carport with solar panels mounted on the roof of the canopy. The purpose of a solar carport is twofold: to provide shelter for vehicles and to generate solar energy. Typically installed in parking lots, driveways, or large commercial spaces, solar carports are often paired with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, allowing owners to power their vehicles with clean, renewable energy.

What are Traditional Solar Panels?

Traditional solar panels are mounted on rooftops, directly installed on the roof of a home or commercial building. These panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to power the building’s electrical systems or stored for later use. Rooftop solar systems are generally the most common and well-known solar solution, and they can be installed on both residential and commercial properties.

Key Differences Between Solar Carports and Traditional Solar Panels

Space Utilization

Solar Carports: Solar carports utilize unused parking space, driveways, or larger open areas. They create dual-purpose structures that not only shelter vehicles from the elements but also generate clean energy. This makes them ideal for properties with limited roof space or where additional parking space is needed. Solar carports can be installed in commercial settings, large apartment complexes, or any place where there is a need for parking.

Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional solar panels require space on the roof, making them ideal for homes and commercial buildings with available rooftop area. While they don’t require additional ground space, they do limit the potential for other uses of the roof, such as landscaping or adding additional structures.

Aesthetic and Design

Solar Carports: Solar carports come with a built-in canopy structure that can be designed in various styles, adding an aesthetic element to a property. This is particularly useful in commercial settings where branding and visual appeal are important. Solar carports can be customized to fit the landscape and overall aesthetic of the location.

Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional solar panels, while highly effective, can be visually intrusive for some homeowners. The panels are usually mounted on the roof, which might not align with the architectural style of the building. However, some newer designs of solar panels, such as solar shingles or BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics), offer more visually appealing alternatives.

Cost Considerations

Solar Carports: The initial cost of installing a solar carport can be higher than traditional solar panels because the structure itself needs to be built and reinforced to hold the solar panels. However, solar carports can be a long-term investment due to their ability to generate power while providing other benefits, like shading and protection for vehicles. Additionally, they can often generate more energy because they are positioned in a way that optimizes sun exposure.

Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional rooftop solar systems generally have lower installation costs since they don’t require the construction of a separate structure. However, the energy output is limited to the size and angle of the roof, which might not be as optimal as a solar carport. Depending on the property’s location and roof type, traditional solar panels can either be highly efficient or less so due to shading or limited roof space.

Energy Generation

Solar Carports: Solar carports can generate more energy because they are not limited by roof space. Additionally, they can be installed at optimal angles to capture sunlight, which can be adjusted to maximize energy generation. For properties with a high energy demand or those looking to charge electric vehicles, solar carports provide the added benefit of integrating EV charging stations, allowing the carport to serve a dual purpose.

Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional rooftop solar panels also generate a significant amount of energy, but their output is constrained by the available roof area. Depending on the roof pitch, direction, and shading, the energy generation might be less efficient than that of a solar carport. However, rooftop solar panels are often enough to power residential homes and smaller commercial buildings.

Maintenance

Solar Carports: Solar carports are generally low maintenance but require occasional cleaning, especially in areas with heavy dust or pollen. The structure itself may require periodic inspections to ensure it is secure and undamaged. However, because they are elevated and provide shelter for vehicles, they may be less susceptible to dirt buildup.

Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional solar panels also require minimal maintenance, mostly in the form of cleaning to remove debris, leaves, or dust. The maintenance burden is usually limited, but the panels should be checked periodically for damage or wear, particularly after severe weather events.

Environmental Impact

Solar Carports: By using existing parking areas, solar carports reduce the need for additional land development. This is a sustainable solution that maximizes the use of existing infrastructure while promoting clean energy. Additionally, they provide added benefits, such as reducing heat islands in parking areas and offering shelter for vehicles.

Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional solar panels help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. However, they require space on rooftops, which may limit the extent of their deployment, especially in densely populated urban areas.

Additional Benefits

Solar Carports: Solar carports not only generate power but also provide vehicle protection from harsh weather conditions like sun, snow, and hail. This added protection prolongs the life of vehicles while offering the energy benefits of solar power.

Traditional Solar Panels: Traditional solar panels do not offer any additional physical benefits like vehicle protection. They are solely focused on energy generation, making them ideal for homes and businesses with unused roof space.

Which is Better?

The choice between solar carports and traditional solar panels depends on several factors, including your available space, budget, and energy needs.

If you have limited rooftop space or want to add extra functionality, such as EV charging or vehicle shelter, solar carports might be the better option. Solar carports also tend to generate more energy due to their ability to be installed at optimal angles and positions.

If you have adequate roof space and are looking for a cost-effective solution, traditional solar panels may be the right choice. They are less expensive to install, and their simplicity makes them an excellent option for residential and commercial use.

Ultimately, both solutions contribute to the shift toward clean, renewable energy, and the choice depends on how you wish to maximize the use of your available space and meet your energy requirements. Whether you opt for a solar carport or a traditional solar rooftop system, both offer long-term environmental and financial benefits.