Path-Q Solar
How should a seasonal business's operating schedule affect solar sizing?
Answer
Size and evaluate solar using the business's seasonal and interval load profile, not annual consumption alone. A system may be most valuable when its production overlaps the months and hours the business operates, while excess production during closure periods may have lower value.
Key points
- Separate monthly energy use, operating hours, and peak demand by season.
- Model whether the business is open during high-solar periods and whether loads can be shifted.
- Include seasonal tariff periods, export treatment, and any demand charges.
What it depends on
- Months and hours of operation
- Seasonal electricity consumption
- Demand peaks and equipment schedules
- Solar production by month and time of day
- Tariff, export, and demand-charge rules
Risks and trade-offs
- Sizing to annual consumption may create excess output during the off-season.
- A smaller system may have better self-consumption but offset less annual energy.
- Storage or flexible loads may help but add cost and operational complexity.
Information you may need
- At least twelve months of bills
- Monthly and interval usage if available
- Operating calendar and major equipment schedule
- Demand-charge details
- Export-credit and seasonal tariff information
Your next step
What to do next
Request a month-by-month and interval-based proposal showing production, on-site use, exports, demand effects, and savings during operating and closed periods.
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SQ01139