The A to Z of Commercial Solar Panels: What It Costs and How to Jump In

olar energy has evolved from a distant aspiration into a practical and efficient power source that's gaining momentum in the business world. From industry leaders to small enterprises, businesses are transitioning to sustainable energy solutions, and there are compelling motives behind this shift. Let's navigate the universe of commercial solar panels, encompassing their costs, the reasons for their rising demand, and the variables that can affect your investment decisions.

Businesses are Turning to Solar

While some may view solar panels as a luxury for eco-conscious individuals, they've actually become a wise business move. Leading corporations like Amazon, Meta, and Google have invested heavily in wind and solar energy. According to the American Clean Power Association, a whopping 326 companies had contracted 77 gigawatts of wind and solar energy by the end of 2022. This amount of energy can power over 18 million American homes or even a thousand data centers!

However, it's not just large corporations entering the solar arena. Numerous smaller businesses are also joining the trend. Today, there are 23 U.S. companies with at least 100 MW of solar capacity, a number that's set to grow as the benefits of solar energy become increasingly apparent. And the data backs it up; according to the SEIA/Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables U.S. Solar Market Insight report, the commercial solar sector is projected to grow by 12% in 2023 and another 13% in 2024.

The attraction of solar power extends beyond simply being eco-friendly (though that's a significant advantage). Solar energy enables businesses to significantly reduce their operational costs, enhance their brand image as environmentally conscious enterprises, and invest in a sustainable future.

Community solar programs are expanding across the country, and Virginia is the latest state to offer this sustainable energy option to its residents.

Commercial Solar Panels Cost: What You Need to Know

If you're still engaged, we're guessing you're ready to talk numbers, particularly what commercial solar system cost. Well, it's not a one-size-fits-all answer. For a small business, the cost of commercial solar panels can run around $100,000. However, for larger operations, the investment can go beyond $1,000,000.

Why does the cost range so widely? Several factors influence it, including the size of your building, the amount of sunlight your location receives, and your choice of solar technology. Initial commercial solar system costs also encompass installation, permits, and potentially upgrading your building's electrical system.

But before you let the cost deter you, consider the long-term benefits. In 2023, commercial electricity rates hover around 12.52 cents per kWh in the U.S. If your small business consumes between 15,000 and 25,000 kWh per year, a Colorado solar system tailored to your needs can yield savings from $180,000 to an astonishing $300,000 on electricity costs over time. Additionally, tax incentives, grants, and rebates can sweeten the deal by reducing the initial expenditure and enhancing your return on investment. So, although the initial cost can be substantial, the long-term advantages more than make up for it.

Incentives and Rebates: Cutting Down Your Initial Cost

When exploring solar options for your business, the commercial solar panels cost can be a sticking point initially. Fortunately, there are numerous incentives and rebates available to help reduce the financial burden.

Understanding federal tax credits is crucial for any company looking to invest in solar power. You have two primary choices: the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and the Production Tax Credit (PTC). The ITC allows you to deduct 30% of your installation costs from your federal income taxes. It doesn't depend on how well your system performs, so it's a straightforward option. In contrast, the PTC provides a tax credit per kilowatt-hour for the electricity your solar system generates during its first ten years of operation. While the PTC can offer continuous tax benefits, it's better suited for larger solar installations in sunny areas.

In addition to these federal tax credits, there are other advantages, such as the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS). MACRS allows businesses to spread out the commercial solar panels cost over five years, leading to substantial tax deductions. Moreover, the recently passed Federal Inflation Reduction Act (FIRA) offers extra incentives, including grants and loans with below-market rates, which can cover up to 80% of the total cost of commercial solar panels.

Types of Solar Panel Systems for Commercial Use

When it comes to solar panels, one size does not fit all, so it's important to know what kinds of solar systems can be deployed in a business context. Broadly, these can be divided into:

• Grid-Tied: These systems are connected to the local utility grid, offering the benefit of feeding unused power back into the system and drawing from it when your panels don't produce enough energy.
• Off-Grid: Ideal for remote locations, these systems are self-sufficient but require energy storage solutions like batteries, increasing your initial commercial solar system costs.

Additionally, there are the following types of solar installations:

• Rooftop System: Panels are installed on the roof of your commercial property.
• Ground-mounted Systems: Ideal if you have ample land; the panels are installed directly on the ground.
• Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV): This high-tech option integrates solar panels into the building materials themselves, such as windows or facades.

Choosing the right system depends on various factors like the amount of space available, the architecture of your building, and the amount of sunlight your location receives.

For businesses looking to invest in renewable energy solutions, commercial solar panels for sale offer an excellent opportunity to reduce operating costs and minimize environmental impact.

Installation Process: What It Takes to Go Solar

Installing a solar system for your business is a multi-step endeavor. Here's what to expect:

1. Initial Consultation and Site Visit: A solar provider will evaluate your site's solar potential and discuss your energy needs and costs.
2. Design and Planning: Based on the initial assessment, a system will be designed. This is when you'll decide between a grid-tied or off-grid setup and the placement of the panels.
3. Permitting: Before installation begins, you'll need to secure the necessary local and state permits. Your solar provider usually handles this.
4. Installation: Here's where the rubber meets the road. Panels are installed, along with inverters, and any other system components.
5. Connection and Testing: Once everything is in place, the system will be connected to the electrical grid, if applicable, and undergo a series of tests to ensure functionality.
6. Monitoring and Maintenance: Many installers offer monitoring services to ensure your system is running efficiently and to help you track your savings.

For businesses looking to invest in renewable energy solutions, commercial solar panels for sale offer an excellent opportunity to reduce operating costs and minimize environmental impact.

Is Commercial Solar Worth It?

Parting Words: Why Solar is the Future of Commercial Energy

Solar energy isn't just a passing trend; it's the future of commercial energy for numerous compelling reasons. Major corporations have made substantial investments in solar and other renewable energy sources, signaling the path forward. As sustainability and energy self-sufficiency take center stage, alongside the financial perks such as lower energy costs and tax benefits, solar energy is progressively becoming businesses' top choice

Understanding commercial solar system costs is essential for businesses considering the switch to solar energy. These costs encompass various factors, including equipment, installation, permits, and ongoing maintenance.

So, if you're pondering whether to take the plunge, the evidence overwhelmingly suggests that solar is not just viable but advisable for long-term business sustainability and growth.

Ready to harness the power of solar energy in the Great Lakes region? Discover the possibilities with our comprehensive guide on Solar Energy in Michigan. Additionally, explore the advancements in solar energy technology and practices in California, a leader in renewable energy, in our article on California Solar Energy.

Sources:

https://cleanpower.org/news/

https://facilitiesmanagementadvisor.blr.com/

https://www.seia.org/research-resources/

https://shrinkthatfootprint.com/