According to the report by Environment America, Rooftop solar installations have increased 10% each year over the past decade, which means an overall growth of 1000%. The report also highlights that despite this huge surge, solar panels as roofs only provide 1.5% of electricity used in the US as of 2022. This shows there is still a lot of unused potential, as solar panels roofs could fulfill 45% of US homeowners’ electricity needs as of 2022 levels. To help close this gap, more US homeowners should install solar panels on roofs. Additionally, According to the persistent market research, the global rooftop solar market is expected to grow from $64.8 billion in 2025 and reach $178.7 billion by 2032.
Furthermore, the report focuses on the enormous environmental and economic benefits of solar panels installed on roofs, which include land preservation, long-term savings for homeowners, and reduced dependence on polluting energy sources.
Huge potential of installing rooftop solar panels for the commercial sector
The Report Environment America, titled “ Rooftop Solar on the Rise,” estimates that flat-roofed structures like warehouses and retail buildings alone can generate 185 terawatt-hours of electricity annually. That’s enough to power nearly 19 million homes. Moreover, 100,000 large retail buildings could power over 8 million homes. Installing solar panels on roofs or a commercial building reduces reliance on the grid. The report suggests businesses should switch to solar panels for flat roof buildings, as these spaces often go unused but receive consistent sunlight. This makes them ideal for commercial rooftop solar systems.
Why rooftop solar makes sense?
Homeowners save money long-term. While upfront costs exist, most systems pay for themselves in 8–9 years. Over 25 years, families save between $20,000 and $96,000 on electric bills. It reduces reliance on the grid and provides reliable power during extreme weather. Furthermore, when homeowners install solar panels on the roof, they avoid using land for energy. One gigawatt of solar panels installed on the roof can save 5,200 acres; it is known as energy sprawl.
Johanna Neumann from Environment America says, “Why pay for faraway power plants when the sun hits our roofs every day?” Her statement reflects a growing interest in roofs for solar panels.
A common question is how many solar panels can fit on my roof? The answer depends on how much sun a roof gets and how much roof space for solar panels is available. Most homes need 15–20 panels to meet basic energy needs.
However, considering the roof for solar panels depends on several factors. Metal, tile, and asphalt roofs are ideal. Still, professionals can assess what type of roof is best for solar panels based on structure and angle.
In conclusion, the U.S. can meet nearly half its power needs with rooftop solar. Yet, most rooftops remain unused. As more people ask, is my roof suitable for solar panels?,and is my roof good for solar? As the solar industry is growing, the government should expand options like offering financial options, community solar initiatives, and net metering policies to make rooftop solar more accessible. Choosing solar panels for the roof is not only smart but also sustainable. Now is the time to install rooftop solar and turn every roof into a power source.