Why Businesses Go Solar

Solar Value Proposition

A business that generates its own clean, renewable electricity from solar will reduce energy costs and receive valuable tax incentives, resulting in improved cash-flow and a stronger bottom line. Currently, businesses are facing a number of energy-related challenges:

These challenges are frequently met with a solar solution that comes with a variety of benefits, including:

1. Economics
   • The reasons that businesses go solar range but at the heart of almost every businesss decision is improving their bottom line. As electric rates have continued to increase, commercial customers in particular have felt the impact. Going solar has two main financial benefits:
   • Reduced Electric Costs for 25+ Years
     • Reduced business operating costs, reduced risk from utility electric rate volatility, increased cash-flow
   • Tax Benefits
     • Federal Investment Tax Credit, MACRS, and bonus depreciation available
2. Environmental
   • Climate change and renewable energy have been some of the biggest topics of the past 15 years. While economics are generally the biggest attraction for going solar, many customers are also weighing the environmental impact of their energy consumption. Going solar:
   • Reduces Air Pollution: Fossil fuels produce harmful carbon dioxide and methane emissions when burned. Solar is a clean, zero emission energy source.
   • Reduces Water Pollution: Natural gas & coal-fired energy production require mass amounts of water for cooling. Solar does not require water to operate.
   • Does Not Use Finite Resources: Coal, oil and natural gas are on a limited supply. In contrast, the silicon used to create solar panels is one the most plentiful resources on earth.
3. Benefit the economy
   • Solar is also a great way to benefit the economy. As the industry has grown exponentially, the need for solar energy workers has also increased. PV installers, consulting firms, manufacturers, and suppliers all boost the economy. Install in particular cannot be outsourced and has quickly become one of the biggest employers in the country.
4. Build Brand Image
   • As solar has become more popular and environmental awareness has become more prevalent, renewable energy sources have become a new brand booster. Being environmentally responsible has not only become trendy, but also expected, in many cases. Businesses that can prove their dedication to the environment instantly get a brand boost with many client demographics.
5. Flexibility
   • Solar energy was once viewed as a luxury for the ultra environmentally conscious but has since become accessible to most businesses. With a range of system types (roof, ground, carport), and a suite of financing options (direct purchase, CPACE, PPA, etc.) the vast majority of customers are able to implement a solar energy system for their business.