Solar Canopy OR Carport: What’s the Difference?

Solar solutions are becoming increasingly popular in residential and commercial sectors as the demand for clean energy grows. Among the most efficient ways to combine solar power with functionality are solar canopies and carports. While these structures may seem similar at first glance, they have distinct differences that impact their design, usage, and benefits. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between a solar canopy and a solar carport to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Solar Carport?

A Solar carport is a structure that combines a car shelter with photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. Typically built over parking lots, driveways, or commercial parking spaces, solar carports are designed to protect vehicles from the elements while generating solar energy.

Key Features of Solar Carports:

• Built specifically to cover parked vehicles

• Ideal for residential driveways or commercial parking lots

• Usually one or two car-widths wide

• Panels are mounted on top of a supporting structure

  
  

What is a Solar Canopy?

On the other hand, a Solar canopy is a broader term encompassing various types of overhead structures with solar panels. While solar carports fall under the canopy category, canopies aren’t limited to vehicle coverage. They can be installed over walkways, seating areas, patios, or large open areas for shade and energy production.

Key Features of Solar Canopies:

• Multifunctional and versatile

• Can cover patios, walkways, parks, or seating areas

• Offer shade and weather protection in addition to energy production

• Often found in schools, public parks, or commercial plazas

Solar Canopy vs. Solar Carport: Key Differences

Feature	Solar Carport	Solar Canopy
Primary Use	Vehicle protection and solar generation	Versatile coverage with solar integration
Structure	Narrow and vehicle-sized	Larger, custom-designed overhead structure
Installation Location	Driveways, parking lots	Patios, walkways, campuses, parks
Design Flexibility	Moderate	Highly adaptable to many settings
Cost	Generally less expensive	Can be more costly due to custom designs

Structural Design Comparison

Solar canopies typically feature taller, broader structures than solar carports. They are meant to cover walkways, playgrounds, or large waiting areas. Their size and elevation provide more coverage and can be engineered for diverse architectural styles.

Solar carports, on the other hand, are generally lower and closely spaced to match vehicle parking sizes. Based on parking layouts, they often come in single-row or double-row formats.

Materials Used in Construction

Solar Carports generally utilize:

• Galvanized steel or aluminum frames for strength and corrosion resistance

• Reinforced foundations to withstand vehicle impact and weather

• Flush or tilted solar panels mounted overhead

  
  

Solar Canopies often incorporate:

• Custom steel or wood-framed structures for architectural appeal

• Aesthetic elements like colored trim, integrated lighting, or wood finishes

• Panels elevated higher, requiring more substantial support and longer conduit runs

  
  

While both systems are built to last decades, canopies often feature premium finishes, especially in public or corporate settings, raising costs.

Cost Breakdown and Affordability

Let's talk money. Understanding the cost difference between a solar canopy and a solar carport is critical for your investment decision.

Feature	Solar Carport	Solar Canopy
Average Cost (per kW)	$3,200–$4,000	$4,000–$5,500
Permits & Engineering	Lower	Higher
Labor Costs	Moderate	Higher
Material Costs	Standard	Premium in many cases
Installation Time	Shorter	Longer
Design Customization	Limited	Extensive

While solar carports are generally more affordable, canopies offer a more dynamic, architectural solution that justifies the additional cost in high-visibility or multi-functional environments.

Commercial Applications

In the commercial world, both solutions offer unique benefits:

Carports:

• Generate income by supporting EV charging

• Reduce heat islands in parking areas

• Offer shade, enhancing the visitor experience

Canopies:

• Serve as branding tools when integrated with signage

• Enhance public space aesthetics

• Provide solar-powered outdoor workspace or lounge zones

Businesses often opt for a combination of both to maximize utility and sustainability.

Residential Applications

Homeowners are increasingly looking toward integrated energy solutions. Here’s how each solar structure fits:

Solar Carports:

• Offer a practical solution without sacrificing driveway space

• Easier permitting makes them homeowner-friendly

• Ideal for homes without sufficient roof area for panels

Solar Canopies:

• Great for backyard seating or outdoor kitchens

• More visually appealing than traditional patio covers

• Combine leisure with sustainability

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose a solar carport if your primary goal is to protect your vehicle while generating solar energy.

  
  

• Choose a solar canopy if you want a more versatile structure that can provide shade, enhance aesthetics, and produce renewable energy in a public or commercial space.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between a solar canopy and a solar carport is crucial when considering a solar-powered mounting structure for your home or business. While both offer clean energy and functional space usage, the right choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and intended use.

Always consult a professional solar company for expert advice and customized solutions. They can assess your site and provide the best option.