The objective of this study was to conduct a solar analysis for twelve (12) potential sites, encompassing evaluations such as solar array installation costs, estimated annual collection of kW and kWh, monetary value of collection, and an estimated approximate payback period.

The study commenced with an analysis of the most optimal PV orientation and tilt, taking into account local buildings and topography. It was determined that an azimuth of 180° (south facing PV panels) was ideal, with an average energy production of 1700 kw/kwh. An azimuth of 225° (SW) or 135° (SE) yielded 1600 kw/kwh. Any other direction (N, NW, W, NE, E) had an energy production of roughly 1500 kw/kwh.

Based on this data, Verdical Group recommended using sites that allowed the solar arrays to be configured in a south facing direction when possible. Verdical Group also determined that the optimal possible payback period would be 6 years. However, the study noted that if optimal PV area considerations were disregarded and PV was constructed solely based on the largest available parking lot areas, the payback period could extend to 21 years for some sites.

In addition to providing these considerations, Verdical Group provided a data table as part of our final deliverable report, capturing the facility name, address, site energy consumption, array area, installation cost, annual kWh collected, monetary value of collection, payback period, and percentage of energy use offset for each of the twelve analyzed sites. The table included Option 1 for maximum PV area on-site, with offset percentages ranging widely from 3% to 373%. In addition, our team provided an Option 2 which demonstrated the capability to provide 100% energy offset at seven of the twelve sites through optimization of the PV design.