Embracing solar energy in your business is an excellent way to reduce operating expenses and minimize your carbon footprint. Between 2009-2021, commercial solar power generation accounted for one-third of all solar power produced in the United States, highlighting the growing popularity among nonprofits, governments, and companies.
Understanding Commercial Solar
Commercial solar refers to solar panel installations within the industrial and commercial sectors. This encompasses a wide range of applications, from solar-powered farms and plants to residential solar panels. Commercial solar installations are not limited to businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies; they can also include:
- Parking lots or garages
- Retail outlets and shopping malls
- Daycare centers and schools
- Clinics or hospitals
- Warehouses and factories
- Vineyards, farms, and ranches
- Commercial office buildings
Installation Options
Commercial solar systems can be seamlessly integrated into various settings and structures, unlike residential solar panels, which are mainly limited to rooftops, ground mounts, or utility-scale plants. Commercial solar panels can be installed:
- In artificial lakes and ponds (floatovoltaics)
- On pole mounts
- In parking shades and carports
- On patio covers, pergolas, and gazebos
- In sheds and barns
- On flat surfaces
- On commercial building rooftops
Costs
Commercial solar panel systems typically cost around $1.45 per watt, significantly lower than residential systems, which can cost up to $3.06 per watt.
System Size Variations
Average price figures can conceal considerable price variations. Factors such as economies of scale, installation difficulty, location, and mounting system type can all impact costs.
Advantages
Commercial solar panels offer numerous benefits and incentives that attract businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations:
- Rapid payback period
- Enhanced green credentials
- Diverse financing options
- MACRS depreciation
- Reduced electric bills
- Solar incentives and tax credits
Quick Payback Period
With a solar payback period of just 2-3 years, you can quickly recoup your investment through utility bill savings, MACRS depreciation tax benefits, and incentives. Considering solar panels are designed to last around 25 years, this short payback period allows you to enjoy free electricity early in the panels' lifespan.
Flexible Financing Options
Three primary financing methods are available for commercial solar panel systems:
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Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): Agree to a fixed rate for the power generated by the solar system with the solar installer.
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Solar Lease: Rent solar panels from a solar company at a fixed monthly rate.
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Solar Loan: Finance the purchase of solar panels through monthly installments for 5-20 years. Solar loans typically offer the best return on investment and are the most popular financing option for solar systems.
MACRS Depreciation
The Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS) allows businesses to recover the cost of solar energy equipment over a five-year period. This prevents organizations from facing large tax liabilities for their systems in the first five years. Solar panels usually come with a 25-year warranty, making this an attractive benefit. You can also combine the solar tax credit with MACRS, reducing the asset's cost by 85%.
Electric Bill Offset
Commercial solar power systems can offset 100% of an organization's electricity bills. Installing a grid-tied system simplifies this process, allowing excess power to be exported to the grid and earn credits, ultimately reducing your bill. Net metering can even generate income for the electricity you export. A complete electric bill offset results in:
- Free Electricity
- Positive cash flow
- Independence from utility rate hikes
Production and Consumption Alignment
Commercial solar panel installations align with an organization's energy consumption and production habits. Many organizations require energy during the day, which coincides with the solar panels' power production. This eliminates the need for a battery storage system, reducing both payback periods and upfront costs.
Solar Incentives and Tax Credits
The solar tax credit, also known as the clean energy credit, equals 30% of the cost of installing a solar panel system. To learn more about the solar tax credit, consult the Department of Energy's guide. Additionally, local governments, utilities, and states may offer extra incentives beyond tax credits. It's essential to stay informed about available incentives in your area.
Green Credentials
To succeed in a competitive market, businesses must understand their customers' needs and priorities. Climate change is a pressing issue that people care deeply about. By adopting sustainable practices and promoting environmentally friendly products, companies can demonstrate their commitment to tackling climate change.
One way to do this is by installing solar panels to cultivate an eco-friendly image. Many large corporations have already installed solar arrays to power their facilities and have pledged to transition to clean and green energy sources. By doing so, they not only reduce their environmental impact but also appeal to customers who prioritize sustainability.
In Conclusion Commercial solar panel systems offer a plethora of advantages for businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations. By understanding the costs and benefits, you can make an informed decision about whether solar energy is the right choice for your organization. Investing in solar panels can lead to significant savings, enhanced green credentials, and a reduced carbon footprint, making it a win-win solution for many.