Photovoltaics in industry: opportunities and challenges

What is an industrial photovoltaic system

Industrial photovoltaic systems represent a key solution in embarking on a path towards energy efficiency and sustainability. The size of an industrial photovoltaic system can vary considerably depending on the specific needs of the industry in question. There is no strict rule defining domestic or industrial systems based on predefined power thresholds. In general, an industrial photovoltaic system is considered to have an installed capacity of at least 10 kWp, if not significantly higher, but the optimal size depends on various factors, including the desired energy production and available space.

The benefits of industrial photovoltaics

There are numerous benefits to consider when investing in industrial photovoltaics. From reducing energy costs to creating a sustainable corporate image, along with fiscal incentives, these solutions can transform how industries and companies produce and consume energy.

Reduction of energy costs

A fundamental advantage of implementing an industrial photovoltaic system is the significant reduction in energy costs, both in the short and long term. Electricity production from renewable sources, once the initial infrastructure is in place, substantially reduces the energy bill, allowing companies to stabilize and plan their budgets and investments more effectively with very advantageous payback times.

Enhancement of corporate image

The adoption of renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaics applied to the industrial sector, offers companies the opportunity to improve their corporate image. A commitment to environmental sustainability can positively influence the perception of customers, suppliers, and stakeholders, contributing to building a responsible corporate reputation. Not to mention the necessary commitment in terms of ESG (environmental, social, and corporate governance).

Fiscal incentives and facilitations

There are numerous fiscal incentives and facilitations for companies investing in industrial photovoltaic systems. These benefits may include non-repayable grants (consider, for example, the recent validation of the MiniPIA or the PNRR “Parco Agrisolare”), tax deductions, tax credits, and incentivizing tariffs, making the adoption of photovoltaic solutions even more financially convenient and attractive.

Reduction of carbon footprint

Reducing the environmental impact of companies is certainly one of the most relevant aspects of an industrial photovoltaic system. Generating energy from a renewable source reduces CO2 emissions, contributing tangibly to global efforts to combat climate change and improve environmental sustainability.

Energy independence and security

Industrial photovoltaic systems enable companies to achieve a certain degree of energy independence, reducing dependence on traditional electrical grids. This energy autonomy not only improves supply security but also helps stabilize energy supply.

The challenges of industrial photovoltaics

Of course, it is essential to examine the challenges associated with industrial photovoltaics.

Management of production variability

Renewable energies are inherently unpredictable and therefore difficult to program, as they are connected to weather conditions that cannot be accurately predicted. This has always been one of the challenges in the renewables sector, a challenge gladly accepted by historical operators in the sector supported by today’s technologies, which allow greater mastery. Just think of storage systems, digital energy, and more.

Initial costs

Over the years, there has been cultural resistance to the renewable transition partly due to the initial economic investment required for the construction of the system. Well, things have changed a lot today, starting from the costs of technical materials, their refinement in terms of technological standing, up to the numerous forms of incentives provided at the national or European level to encourage companies to transition to renewables.

Installation areas

The need for considerable space was another logistical challenge for companies embracing photovoltaic technology in the early days. This challenge has also been overcome not only by the technologies available today (with much different dimensions than in the past) but also by new formulas for energy production and consumption (think of remote self-consumption or Renewable Energy Communities).

In conclusion, an industrial photovoltaic system offers a series of tangible and measurable benefits, confirming the key role of photovoltaic energy in the energy transition of companies. A personalized approach is crucial to maximize efficiency and ensure a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions. Investing in industrial photovoltaic systems not only allows companies to reduce energy costs in the short and long term but also demonstrates a tangible commitment to environmental sustainability, contributing to building a future with lower carbon emissions. Since 2008, Southenergy has provided customized solutions aimed at enhancing renewable energy sources, leveraging what companies and individuals already possess: the roof. The specialization in the sector, physical presence in the territory, an organizational structure benefiting from highly qualified internal personnel, and equipment and means of ownership to be able to promptly manage the entire value chain in the construction and management of energy have been, for 16 years, the real strengths of Southenergy. Discover the efficiency of our photovoltaic systems and the turnkey solutions we have reserved for those who have already chosen us: visit the section of our website dedicated to some of the projects we have carried out. If you would like more information or request a free technical consultation, contact us by filling out the following form. One of our experts will analyze your request, identifying the solution to your energy problem.