Commercial Rooftop Solar for Complex Roofs
Most commercial roofs are crowded with HVAC units, ductwork, vents and access paths. Our elevated solar canopies build over all of it, so the roof hosts far more solar than a conventional layout allows.
Solar that spans the obstructions
Universal Renewables is a Washington, DC-based solar developer, installer, distributor, integrator and O&M provider delivering custom elevated solar power systems to commercial and government clients. By lifting the array above rooftop equipment, we routinely increase the capacity a rooftop can host by 50% to more than 500%.
The canopy also shades the roof and the equipment beneath it, and the roof can be replaced later without dismantling the array.
What we handle
Engineering
Location-specific stamped drawings covering local building codes, wind loading and structural requirements.
Manufacturing
Made in the USA by Universal Aluminum Products with 100% domestic content.
Installation
Our own crews install the canopy and PV, with flashing in line with roofing manufacturer requirements.
Operations
O&M support after the system is placed in service, backed by product warranty.
Commercial projects
Rooftop canopy projects on concrete slab, wood joist, wood truss, I-beam and bar joist roofs.
| Project | Size | System | Canopy height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burr | 725.7 kW | W System and Elevated Flush Mount | 5–6 ft |
| Fitch & G St. | 700 kW | W System | 5–6 ft |
| Cityline – Solar Solutions and HESP | 535 kW | Elevated Flush Mount | 7–9 ft |
| Washington Square | 522 kW | W System, Flush Mount and High Tilt | 1–20 ft |
| Lafayette | 385 kW | Flush Mount and Elevated Flush Mount | 2–4 ft |
| 3801 Connecticut Ave. | 297.3 kW | W System | 5–7 ft |
| 616 | 197 kW | Elevated Flush Mount | 6–9 ft |
| Kenmore | 185 kW | W System | 5–7 ft |
As a side benefit, the canopy approach provides shade protection to our roof and the related HVAC systems.
Steve, Condo Board Member — Logan Station, DC
Discuss your project
Tell us about the building. We reply by email or phone.