Commercial Solar Melbourne

For many Melbourne businesses, electricity cost is driven less by total kWh consumption and more by tariff structure and maximum demand exposure.

Under most commercial tariff classifications, maximum demand is measured in 15–30 minute intervals and reset monthly. Where peak intervals coincide with operating hours, demand charges can materially influence total electricity cost.

Commercial solar systems are designed to reduce grid draw during those demand intervals and align generation with daytime operational load.

Primary commercial cost drivers include:

• Maximum demand (kW / kVA) interval exposure
• Network tariffs and demand reset cycles
• Time-of-use pricing structures
• Daytime operational load alignment

Performance is modelled against 12 months of interval data and site-specific tariff schedule to target measurable cost drivers — not simply overall consumption.

Commercial solar ROI is influenced by tariff classification, demand exposure, daytime load alignment and capital structure.

For Melbourne sites with strong daytime consumption and material demand charges, payback commonly falls within approximately four to six years. Asset life typically extends 20–25 years, allowing extended periods of reduced grid exposure beyond the payback window.

Financial modelling incorporates:

• Site-specific tariff schedule and demand interval data
• STC incentive value applied to capital cost
• Electricity price escalation assumptions
• Capital planning horizon and cost-of-capital considerations

Solar should be evaluated as long-life energy infrastructure designed to stabilise operating costs over the asset lifecycle rather than short-term bill reduction.