FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Solar

Is Solar a good investment for my business?

For many businesses, yes. Most businesses use the bulk of their power during the day, which is exactly when solar panels are generating. That means more of the energy you produce goes straight into running your business, rather than being exported to the grid, which can make a real difference to your power bills. 

Solar can also help your business:
→ Reduce operating costs
→ Protect against rising power prices
→ Strengthen your sustainability credits 
→ Make use of unused space

What size solar system does my business need?

The right-sized system depends on how your business uses energy, so we don't recommend a size or provide pricing until we've reviewed your energy usage and completed a site inspection. 

When sizing a commercial system, we look at:

→ Your energy usage: how much power your business uses
→ Your available roof space: Size, type and orientation of your roof
→ Grid connection rules: Western Power and Horizon have rules on system sizes
→ Your future plans: Expansion, battery storage, EV charging requirements for your fleet

Can you install solar on any type of commercial roof?

Solar can be installed on most commercial roofs, including metal, tiled, and flat roofs. With that said, not every roof is suitable as it is. Before recommending a system, our team will check:

→ Roof type and condition
→ Structural capacity
→ Orientation and shading
→ Asbestos 
→ Access and safety 

If your roof needs any work first, we'll let you know upfront as part of your site inspection. 

What does a commercial solar system cost?

Every business is different, so we don't provide pricing until we've reviewed your energy usage and completed a site inspection. 

The cost of a commercial system depends on factors like:

→ Your energy usage
→ System size
→ Your roof
→ Electrical work
→ Grid connection requirements
→ Expansion plans

Once we understand your business and your site, we'll tailor a quote for a system that delivers the strongest return. 

Are there any rebates or incentives for commercial solar installs?

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Will installation disrupt my business operations?

We work hard to ensure disruptions are kept to a minimum, so your business can keep running while we install your system. 

Most of the work happens on your roof, so day-to-day operations can usually continue as normal. The main time you may notice us is when we connect the system, as this requires a short power shutdown. We'll plan this in advance with you.

Battery Storage

How does battery storage work for commercial properties?

A commercial battery stores so your business can use it when it's needed most. When your solar panels produce more power than your business is using, the battery stores the excess instead of sending it back to the grid. 

That stored energy can then be used to: 

→ Power your business after the sun goes down
→ Reduce costs during peak hours
→ Keep essential equipment running

Can I add a battery to my business's existing solar system?

In most cases, yes. Adding a battery lets your business make better use of the solar power you already produce, storing the excess for use after hours, during hours, or as backup power.

Whether it's a straightforward add-on depends on your current setup. Before recommending a system, we'll check:

→ Your existing inverter's compatibility 
→ Your solar system's age, size, and excess power generation
→ Your switchboard and electrical set up
→ Your business energy usage

We'll let you know upfront if anything needs upgrading.

How much battery capacity does my business need?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. The right battery capacity depends on how your business uses energy, so we don't recommend a size until we've reviewed your energy usage and completed a site inspection.

The goal is always to deliver a battery system that provides real value to your business. 

Which batteries does JFK Projects install for businesses?

As an exclusive Sigenergy partner, we install Sigenergy's SigenStack battery system for businesses.

SigenStack is a modular commercial battery system, so it can be scaled to suit a wide range of businesses, from smaller commercial sites to large operations. You can start with the capacity your business needs now and expand as it grows. 

For businesses that need blackout protection, SigenStack can be paired with the Sigenergy Business Gateway which will automatically provide your business with backup power when the grid goes down. 

Will a battery keep my business running during a power outage?

With the right setup, yes. Our commercial battery systems use Sigenergy's SigenStack, which can be paired with the Sigenergy Business Gateway. When the grid goes down, the gateway will automatically switch your business to backup power, helping keep essential equipment running. 

Where would a battery system be installed at my site?

Every site is different, so we’ll recommend the best location for your battery during your site inspection. Depending on your premises, batteries can be installed outdoors or indoors, such as in a plant room, warehouse or loading area.

When choosing the location, we consider:

→ Distance to your switchboard: Keeping the battery close to your main electrical connection makes for a cleaner, more efficient installation.

→ Safety and compliance: Batteries must be installed in line with Australian standards, including required clearances from exits, windows and other equipment.

→ Protection from the elements: We look for a spot protected from direct sun, heat and weather where possible, to help your battery perform at its best.

→ Access: The battery needs to be accessible for servicing, while being kept away from high-traffic areas and out of the way of your day-to-day operations.

→ Space for expansion: If you plan to add capacity later, we’ll make sure there’s room to grow.

EV Charging

Why should my business install EV chargers?

As more Australians switch to electric vehicles, on-site EV charging is becoming a valuable addition for businesses of all sizes. It can help your business:

→ Power your fleet for less: Charging fleet vehicles on site can be more cost-effective than fuel or public chargers.

→ Attract and retain staff: Workplace charging is a convenient perk that’s increasingly valued by employees who drive EVs.

→ Bring in customers: EV drivers often look for places to charge.

→ Strengthen your sustainability credentials: EV charging shows a visible commitment to cleaner transport and reducing emissions.

→ Future-proof your premises: With EV uptake growing, installing chargers now prepares your business for what’s ahead.

When paired with a solar and battery system, your business can charge vehicles using its own renewable energy, helping reduce running costs even further.

Which EV chargers does JFK Projects install?

As an exclusive Sigenergy partner, we install Sigenergy AC and DC chargers only, so we can tailor a charging solution to suit your business:

→ Sigenergy AC chargers: Our main commercial charging option, ideal for workplaces and sites where vehicles are parked for longer periods, such as staff car parks or overnight fleet charging. The system can scale from a few chargers to a larger network as your business grows.

→ Sigenergy DC charging: For businesses that need faster charging, Sigenergy’s DC charging module is built into a SigenStor battery system, offering faster, bi-directional charging with compatible vehicles. It’s a great fit for smaller commercial sites and fleets that want a few faster charging bays alongside solar and battery storage.

The right solution depends on how many vehicles you need to charge, how quickly they need to be turned around and your site’s energy setup. We’ll review your needs and your site, then recommend the best option as part of your tailored quote.

What can I use EV chargers for at my business?

EV chargers can serve a range of purposes depending on your business, and many sites use them for more than one. We install charging solutions for:

→ Retail charging: Give EV-driving customers a reason to visit and stay longer, whether you run a shopping centre, café, hotel or other retail space.

→ Workplace charging: Keep your fleet vehicles charged and ready to go, and offer convenient charging as a perk for staff who drive EVs.

→ Public charging: Provide accessible charging for EV drivers in your area, helping attract new visitors to your site.

→ Strata charging: Give residents and tenants in apartment complexes and multi-unit developments access to convenient, shared charging.

Can I charge EVs using my business's solar power?

Yes. Charging EVs with your own solar power is one of the most cost-effective ways to run electric vehicles at your business.

Because most businesses operate during the day, when solar panels are generating, vehicles can often charge while they’re parked at work, using energy from your own roof instead of the grid. This works especially well for workplace and fleet charging, where vehicles are parked for long periods during daylight hours.

Adding a battery takes it a step further. Excess solar power generated during the day can be stored and used to charge vehicles later, such as overnight fleet charging or after-hours visitors.

What does commercial EV charging cost to install?

Every business is different, so we don’t provide pricing until we’ve completed a site inspection and reviewed your business’s energy usage.

The cost of a commercial EV charging installation depends on factors like:

→ Number of chargers: How many vehicles you need to charge at once.

→ Charger location: The distance from your switchboard, and whether cabling needs to run across car parks or through walls.

Electrical upgrades: Whether your switchboard or power supply needs upgrading to handle the extra load.

→ Network requirements: Western Power or Horizon Power rules may affect your system design.

→ Solar and battery integration: Pairing your chargers with a solar and battery system to charge using your own energy.

→ Future expansion: Preparing your site for additional chargers down the track.

Once we understand how your business will use EV charging, we’ll recommend the right solution and give you a clear, tailored quote.

Are there any incentives for commercial EV charging in WA?

There are some incentives available for EV charging, depending on your business type and project.

Charge Up Workplace EV Charging Grants The WA Government’s Charge Up Grants have previously helped small and medium businesses, not-for-profits and local governments cover up to half the cost of installing EV chargers. The most recent round closed on 30 June 2025, and a new round has not yet been announced. 

DRIVEN Charger Rebate Stream If your business is a car dealership, repairer or mechanic, you may be eligible for the federal government’s DRIVEN Charger Rebate Stream. It currently offers up to $3,000 per eligible EV charging plug, capped at $21,000 per site, with applications open until 30 April 2027.

Electrical

What electrical services does JFK Projects offer?

Our commercial electrical services focus on the upgrades that keep your business safe, compliant and ready to support modern energy systems:

→ Switchboard upgrades: Replace an old or outdated switchboard with a modern, compliant one, with room for new circuits and the capacity to support commercial solar, battery storage and EV charging.

→ Power pole replacements: Replace ageing or damaged private power poles on your site with a safe, compliant solution, reducing risk to your staff, customers and operations.

→ Three-phase upgrades: If your premises runs on single-phase power, upgrading to three-phase gives your business the capacity for larger solar systems, batteries, EV chargers and high-demand equipment.

How do I know if my switchboard needs upgrading?

Your switchboard may need upgrading if it’s old, showing signs of wear or can’t safely handle the power your business now uses.

Common signs include ceramic fuses, which don’t offer the same protection as modern circuit breakers, and missing or outdated safety switches, which help protect staff and customers against electric shock. Frequent tripping or blown fuses can mean your switchboard is struggling to keep up with demand, which can lead to unexpected downtime. If you’re adding commercial solar, battery storage, EV charging or new equipment, or your business has grown since the switchboard was installed, it will need the space and capacity for the extra load. Burning smells, scorch marks, buzzing sounds or a switchboard that feels warm are all signs to get it checked straight away.

Older commercial buildings are more likely to need an upgrade, while newer premises often have everything needed already. If you’re unsure, our licensed electricians can inspect your switchboard, let you know upfront whether an upgrade is needed and plan any work around your operations to keep disruption to a minimum.

Do I need a switchboard upgrade before installing solar, a battery or EV chargers?

Not always. Whether your business needs an upgrade depends on the age and condition of your current switchboard, whether it has space for new circuits and whether it can safely handle the extra load of a new energy system. Commercial solar, battery storage and EV charging all connect through your switchboard, so it needs to be up to the job.

Does my business need three-phase power?

Many commercial premises already have three-phase power, but some smaller shops, offices and older buildings still run on single-phase. Three-phase power supplies electricity across three separate lines instead of one, giving your business more capacity and a more balanced, reliable supply for high-demand equipment.

Your business may benefit from three-phase power if you run heavy equipment such as commercial kitchen appliances, workshop machinery, large air conditioning systems or compressors, or if you’re planning a larger solar system, battery storage or multiple EV chargers.

Will electrical upgrades disrupt my business operations?

Most electrical upgrades, such as switchboard upgrades, power pole replacements and three-phase upgrades, need the power to be switched off for part of the job. We keep that disruption to a minimum by planning the work with you in advance, so you’ll know exactly when the power will be off and for how long.

Can I get electrical upgrades if I lease my premises?

Yes, but you’ll usually need your landlord’s approval first. Switchboards, power poles and the electrical supply to a building are generally considered part of the property, so upgrades like these typically need the owner’s written consent before any work can go ahead. Your lease may also set out who is responsible for electrical upgrades and who covers the cost, so it’s worth checking before you start.

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