We have experience since 2007 as a solar-energy EPC, and we have successfully completed hundreds of solar-energy and battery projects as an EPC. Depending on where your project is located, we have experience from 100’s of kW of PV by itself, up to 20 MW of PV and 20 MWh of battery capacity with matching microgrid capabilities.
We also have completed just as many projects where we were not an EPC. This decision depends on the specifics of the project, and it is important to know when a project is best completed by an EPC or when a different solution might be better.
EPC means “Engineer”, “Procure”, “Construct”. This is the same as “design-build” in regular building construction. There is one company that designs the project, buys all the equipment, and then builds it.
What makes a good EPC? The EPC should have these capabilities within their own organization so that there is always one entity responsible for the performance of the project.
- ENGINEER – the company should be able to design the project themselves and produce the necessary sealed drawings for permitting and construction. This means the EPC should have an experienced, in-house engineering team with licensed Professional or Chartered Engineers and NABCEP-Certified Designers/Installers.
- PROCURE – the EPC needs established industry contacts and the financial resources to purchase the volume of equipment for the project based on volume discounts and a track record of prompt payment.
- CONSTRUCT – boots on the ground. Maintaining the resources to construct the project requires people, equipment, financial resources, and experience and expertise. The EPC should not be using your job to learn to do their job.
When we deliver a project as EPC, we have these capabilities ready to bring to the table for your project.
If you as the owner know exactly what you want, then hiring an EPC may be the best delivery solution. But there are always tradeoffs in putting together a project team, and EPC is no exception. With an EPC project delivery, there is one entity, one person responsible for the project, and all the conveniences that go with one “responsible party”.
But an owner should take care to not ask an EPC to build something that isn’t completely defined and specified. This is a common problem that occurs across the construction industry every day, whether the project is a solar-energy plant or a new home residence. Would you ask a homebuilder for their price to build a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom house without any other details than that? Of course not – and its not a good idea to deliver a solar-energy project that way either.
We can help you decide what is the best delivery method for your project. Whether EPC or another process that better suits your needs, schedule, budget, and expectations. You can find more information here.
https://solarislandenergy.com/our-approach/#delivery
Why Solar Island?
Solar Island has the experience and professionalism to work with the top companies in the Caribbean and around the world. Our portfolio of completed projects and thrilled clients speaks for itself.
Read our case studies of completed projects and call our team to discuss the financial benefits that can be achieved by a solar installation for your business.
