September 19, 2025

From kW to MW: How Industrial & Commercial Solar Scales Profitably

Commercial and industrial (C&I) customers often have higher energy intensity and demand charges — meaning solar can yield outsized financial returns. For manufacturing units, cold storage, or large offices, a properly designed solar project reduces energy costs, increases energy independence, and can improve sustainability reporting.

Key considerations for C&I projects

DirecLoad profiling
Understand hourly demand and consumption patterns. If peak demand occurs during the day, on-site generation directly reduces demand charges.

Sizing strategy
For many C&I sites, a hybrid approach works best: build a base PV capacity sized to cover day-time loads and add storage if load-shifting or islanding is needed.

Capex & economies of scale
Installation cost per kW typically falls as system size grows. Larger projects (100 kW+) qualify for better pricing, and payback windows shrink.

Net metering vs gross metering
Policy impacts revenue modeling. Some DISCOMs offer favorable feed-in tariffs for large exports; others require wheeling arrangements.

Interconnection & approvals
Utility approvals, evacuation study, and transformer upgrades are often required — early engagement with DISCOM avoids delays.

Design & procurement best practices

  • Select proven modules and inverters with global warranties and local service support.
  • Plan civil & structural reinforcements for rooftop systems on older warehouses.
  • Consider O&M from day one: performance ratio, dust cleaning schedule, and remote monitoring are critical.

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