Reducing Operational Costs of Small/Medium-Sized Businesses in Puerto Rico through the Implementation of Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Systems have been identified as a renewable energy source that can help reducing operational costs of small/medium-sized businesses in Puerto Rico. Food preparation and food sales businesses are the most electricity consuming businesses and, as a consequence, an attractive candidate for exploring benefits of PV. Data analysis and evaluation demonstrated that PV systems producing more than 75% of the business’ electricity needs provide acceptable return on investment and help reduce operational costs of the businesses evaluated. Key Terms ⎯ Energy Costs and Demand, Operational Costs, Photovoltaic, Solar Energy.