If you’re responsible for buying energy for your organization, you have probably considered commercial solar. And, if that’s the case, you’ve likely been inundated with calls, emails, and collateral from several solar brokers, developers, and installers who promise a great program but actually cause more confusion. Commercial solar can deliver a multitude of benefits – both immediate and long-term. But solar energy can also be confusing and intimidating–especially if you don’t know where to start or whom to trust. To get you on a path for solar success, it’s important to expose some of the most common commercial solar myths.
Exposing Commercial Solar Myths
- Commercial solar is only for large complexes and Fortune 500 companies.
This is one myth that stops organizations in their tracks–causing them to miss out on the benefits of solar. The truth is, commercial solar is a rewarding option for medium to large-sized businesses as well. Many of the largest commercial and industrial organizations do enjoy the benefits of solar. But solar energy can be scalable, and you don’t have to install a solar array on your property. You can start with a program that creates enough electricity for your current usage and grow your solar installation as your organization grows, or when you add additional properties. In addition to onsite solar, you may opt for offsite solar or a community solar program if panel installation is not feasible for your property.
- Commercial solar is only used by eco-minded businesses and green communities.
The truth is, organizations in all types of industries and communities are capitalizing on the financial rewards of solar energy. Not only is solar a renewable energy that can help your business offset its carbon footprint and meet sustainability goals; it is extremely cost-efficient, and it can generate excellent financial returns. Plus, more consumers and businesses today prefer to work with environmentally responsible organizations. Demonstrating that your company values sustainability can help earn the respect and loyalty of customers, employees, and the surrounding community.
- Solar won’t make a big difference in my electricity costs. It’s not worth the investment.
Not only can you offset most or all of your electricity costs, you can also lock in electricity prices for decades. Commercial solar can reduce your organization’s reliance on electricity price volatility for the long term. Also, most states have commercial solar programs that include federal tax credits, state tax credits, rebates, and performance-based incentives. As you can see, solar can provide long-term financial benefits that can deliver a very favorable ROI. The solar program you choose will determine the amount of savings you can enjoy, which makes it easier for your company to budget and plan for the future.
- My organization doesn’t have the capital expenditure budget to pay for a solar project.
Commercial solar is a profitable investment opportunity that is capable of generating excellent financial returns. Some businesses may choose to purchase their solar array outright, which can deliver a higher return on investment early on. But you don’t need to have upfront capital for a commercial solar project. One choice that is popular with many businesses is the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). A PPA allows the solar equipment to be installed onsite, at no cost to you. The solar developer will arrange for the design, permitting, financing, installation, and maintenance of your solar energy system. Or, you may decide that onsite solar is not ideal for your property, in which case you can choose other solar alternatives.
Moving Forward with Commercial Solar
We hope this information helps you to move beyond the myths and focus on how your organization can benefit from commercial solar. If you want to offset your carbon footprint, save money on electricity for the long term, receive regional financial incentives, enjoy greater budget certainty, and position your company as a sustainability leader, it’s time to talk to get some real answers.
As part of the NextEra family of companies, the world’s largest producer of wind and solar energy, Premier Power Solutions is uniquely positioned to analyze, facilitate and execute on your solar energy project and ensure that your solar solution is a cohesive fit with your overall energy strategy. Let’s start with a conversation about the unique needs and goals of your business and your budget. Our energy consultants can help you choose a single installer or issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) on your behalf to bid out the project. Then we can review proposals from multiple vendors to determine the right solution for you. No matter which commercial solar option you choose, we always “sit on your side of the table” to advocate for your business every step of the way. Click here to request a free consultation.