Do Solar Panels Make Noise or Look Bad?

A Straight Answer for Commercial Solar in Columbus, Ohio

At BC Solar, we hear this question often from business owners considering solar:
"Will my solar panels be loud or make the building look bad?"

The honest answer? No and no.

Here’s why:

🔇 Solar Panels Are Completely Silent

Solar panels don’t move. There are no motors or fans. They quietly convert sunlight into electricity. Even under full load, there is zero operational noise.

🔌 Battery Systems Are Quiet Too

If your system includes batteries — such as a Sol-Ark with lithium storage — those units are designed to operate quietly. They're typically housed in a mechanical room or electrical closet and make no more noise than a residential refrigerator.

👀 Panels Sit Low and Stay Out of Sight

Most commercial panels are mounted flush or slightly raised from the roof. Unless your building has a very shallow pitch, the panels aren’t visible from the ground. If aesthetics matter (like with street-facing retail), we offer layout options that keep equipment hidden from sightlines.

Real-World Example from Columbus

One of our clients — a local financial office near Clintonville — had the same concern. After installing solar with a battery backup system, their building still looks the same from the street. What changed? Their energy bill dropped by over 50%.

FAQ

How loud are commercial solar battery systems?

They’re very quiet. Most commercial-grade battery systems produce minimal noise — similar to a computer server or standard HVAC component.

Will customers or tenants notice the panels?

Unlikely. Most installations are not visible unless someone is intentionally looking from a high elevation. If needed, we offer design layouts that stay out of view entirely.

Can solar reduce utility demand charges?

Absolutely. Especially in commercial applications, solar + batteries can help shave peak loads — which are often the biggest line items on commercial energy bills.

Still Have Questions?

At BC Solar, we don’t push cookie-cutter solutions. We walk your property, run the numbers, and give you an honest recommendation — no fluff, no pressure.

Let’s talk about what makes the most sense for your site.

📍 Located in Columbus, Ohio
📞 Call (614) 442-9700
🌐 bc.solar