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To keep pace with demand, solar panel manufacturers, solar installers, and other businesses must find ways to overcome the unique logistical challenges presented by these products. 4 Logistics Challenges for Solar Panels and How to Overcome Them
T he United States has experienced steady growth in solar demand, driven both by the Inflation Reduction Act’s extension of the Residential Clean Energy Credit and by utility providers’ efforts to invest in renewable energy. To keep pace with demand, solar panel (module) manufacturers, solar installers, and other businesses that hope to remain relevant in the expanding U.S. solar panel market must find ways to overcome the unique logistical challenges associated with their products. Here are four top challenges of solar panel logistics and how to address them.
Challenge #4: Finding the Right Logistics Partner An experienced third-
For the end users, storage of modules only adds cost to the overall project, so inexpensive storage space and handling is crucial. Product is generally “bulk stored” to minimize costs with as little as 8% aisle factor being the industry norm. The logistics provider must have the skill set to safely store product at this density and at the same time track inventory accurately.
party logistics (3PL) provider can prove
invaluable for solar companies, but finding one with appropriate experience in solar panel logistics requires proper vetting. Despite this challenge, however, the right partner is worth the effort. By working with a 3PL, solar companies can benefit from a more flexible logistics network, increased scalability, and access to specialized equipment. This collaboration enables companies to focus on core business functions while ensuring that their logistics and warehousing needs are met. Effective storage and logistics are essential for solar companies looking to stay competitive in an industry driven by sustainability and efficiency. The right warehousing setup, inventory management systems, transportation strategies, and partners ensure that solar stakeholders can meet demand while keeping costs under control. As the industry grows, these logistics strategies will become even more critical in supporting a sustainable energy future.
Challenge #3: Making Transportation Cost-Effective Solar panel transport carries significant risk because of the panels’
Challenge #1: Solar Panels Are Big, Heavy, and Fragile Solar panels are built to weather long-term outdoor installation but are highly prone to damage in storage.
size and delicate nature. Minimizing movement and vibrations is essential during transit, as rough roads could result in internal damage, reducing the panel’s efficiency and lifespan. Companies should use route-planning software to ensure transport is efficient. By utilizing technology to manage carriers and routes, businesses can shorten delivery times, lower fuel costs, and reduce emissions—a key metric for companies invested in sustainable energy. A thorough inspection process is crucial at time of delivery to ensure any damaged modules are identified. This allows for sufficient lead time to replace damaged panels from the manufacturer, reducing potential project delays. Additionally, most solar panel manufacturers pay the freight cost to get the panels to the purchaser, so moving and storing the panels as close to the final installation site as possible helps to reduce overall project cost. Having the panels close to the final job site also reduces potential delays during construction.
Since photovoltaic panels are as heavy as they are delicate, they also hold an elevated risk of shocks and drops when handled poorly. Here are some tips for storing solar panels: • Don’t expose solar panels to sunlight while in storage. • Store panels in temperature- controlled environments. • Stack and store panels using techniques that distribute weight and prevent scratches. • Adapt forklifts with soft padding to prevent breakage.
—By Robert Kriewaldt
Challenge #2: Efficient Storage Methods are Key End users of solar panels purchase the modules either for a specific project or in speculation of future projects.
Senior Vice President Phoenix Logistics Robert@Phoenix3PL.com phoenix3pl.com 920-915-9746
18 Inbound Logistics • December 2024
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