Generating sustainable energy on-site is a key decarbonization pathway for organizations looking to reduce carbon emissions to achieve Net Zero. As organizations explore on-site options, solar energy is an attractive solution for most sustainable energy strategies. But, as organizations look to scale operations and maximize the power output, barriers to success arise.
Implementing an on-site solar program often requires the organization to supply the capital expenditure, source the assets, interact with local network operators, and manage the operational responsibilities. For organizations without the time and expertise to execute these steps, achieving decarbonization goals can become an uphill battle.
What is On-site Solar?
On-site solar refers to the installation of solar energy systems directly at the location where the energy will be used, such as homes, businesses, or institutions. It involves the deployment of solar panels or photovoltaic (PV) modules on rooftops, parking lots, or other available spaces on the property.
On-site solar installations can vary in size, from small residential systems to large commercial or industrial setups. These systems capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through the photovoltaic effect, where the PV cells within the solar panels generate a direct current (DC) that is then converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter to be used by the electrical loads on site. The cells don’t need direct sunlight to work and can even produce electricity on cloudy days.
Why is On-site Solar Important?
On-site Solar offers a holistic solution for organizations seeking multi-site onsite solar implementation. It provides numerous benefits, including environmental friendliness by reducing emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Financially, it's cost-effective with low maintenance expenses. Solar panels can maximize space utilization, while peak energy production coincides with high-demand periods, optimizing efficiency and reducing costs. Additionally, it fosters energy independence, mitigating reliance on utility companies and price fluctuations.
Why partner with ENGIE Impact to set up an Onsite Solar Program?
Partnering with ENGIE Impact gives organizations access to the resources and expertise to efficiently manage a multi-site solar program and to take advantage of local opportunities at each site. ENGIE Impact, as PMO helps standardize the procedures by which an organization carries out its projects. This standardization allows for consistent project-related results and provides the following benefits.
Project Prioritization: Having a PMO helps in prioritizing projects with respect to the organization’s strategic goals.
Transparency: a PMO maintains transparency by serving as a conduit for communication.
Efficiency Improvement: Simultaneous development allows for a streamlined, efficient process, reducing the time required for implementation and faster achievement of renewable energy goals. Additionally, a centralized approach reduces the need for redundant staff and minimizes resource requirements on your side.
Risk Mitigation: Implementing a multi-country PPA program spreads risk across diverse markets, reducing the impact of economic changes in any single country and allowing challenges in one region to be offset by successes in others.
Geography-Tailored: A unique portfolio requires an approach that considers the unique regulatory frameworks of each country in scope, language barriers, local stakeholder relationships, and the market/technical considerations relevant to each site.
Shared Ownership: The technical, financial and operational responsibilities will be largely owned by ENGIE impact. This model includes ENGIE Impact's deep involvement in implementation, ownership of assets, and full responsibility for CAPEX - demonstrating that we are quite literally invested in our client's success. ENGIE Impact has specific Health and Safety standards in place for all Onsite Solar projects, particularly addressing all risks involved, especially those related to working at height.
How We Do It
Stakeholder Engagement
Global engineering support alongside local developers ensures standard quality and compliance with local requirements that build strong support from the site level.
Strategy Development
ENGIE Impact’s unique global footprint allows us to implement opportunities in multiple locations with ensured proximity and a strong understanding of the local context.
Implementation
We follow up with suppliers through our central program management team throughout the detailed design and permitting phase to ensure the implementation schedule.
Power supply
By working with ENGIE — a leading power producer, ENGIE Impact has access to key capabilities to valorize energy produced depending on local regulations.