Millions of homeowners have a carport sitting right next to their homes. These carport are now being converted into solar car ports at a fast pace. Solar carports are no more than the traditional carport now covered by a solar system, particularly useful for solar powered vehicles recharge. But their usefulness doesn't stop here. They are becoming a common sight in many parking lots of commercial and business enterprises.

Not only does a carport provide covered parking for customers and employees, it is also a good way to generate cost-effective, clean energy for those same enterprises, as it generates more electricity than a fixed rooftop-mounted PV system. Plus, it enhances property value and it provides a visible commitment to clean, cost-effective renewable energy.

You can build a solar carport anywhere where there is an adequate source of sunlight year-round, the ideal being at least up to five hours a day.

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Although it may still be costly to build, a carport can be a huge profit generator, as the surplus energy can be used by the city's power grid. Important to consider, when thinking about costs, is that a carport is eligible for tax rebates in many areas, and depending on where you the homeowner lives or the enterprise is located the solar system can easily pay itself within few years.

For those who would like to have their own family solar carport but think that the costs are still high you'll be happy to know that there are smaller solar carports, which come in kits, and are perfect to DIY. These can be put together in just a few hours, and in most cases a building permit is not required, though it's a good idea to check with the local authorities first.
If you are not a do-it-yourselfer you can always hire a contractor to help out, and an electrician to connect the wires safely.

Depending on its size, a solar powered carport can generate enough power to provide all of a single-family home's electrical needs.