Discover how moving to solar energy can cut down on your average business electric bill, and help you promote an environmentally-friendly image.
In today’s uncertain economy, companies are continually searching for ways to cut back on their operating costs. Reducing sources of financial waste and inefficiency can ensure that businesses remain agile and ready to adapt to any market change or fluctuation.
One way to begin saving money on your average business electricity costs is through the installation of a cost-saving solar energy system. While solar energy remains a niche energy source, the popularity of solar is growing around the world as a great way to save money and leave a positive impact and legacy.
What keeps most business owners from moving to solar is the relatively little information available on the benefits of renewable energy, and the upfront costs of installing the system. However, by understanding how much money can be saved with solar energy, the decision to move to solar can be easy!
4 Ways Solar Can Cut Your Energy Costs
1. Solar Offers A Long-Term Source Of Free Electricity
While solar energy may cost a more in upfront investment cost, the true cost-savings appear down the road. According to energy experts, businesses will successfully pay off their solar system costs within the first three to seven years after installation. After those payments end, businesses can begin to enjoy the flow of free electricity for as long as the solar energy system lasts.
Typically, a well-maintained solar system can last as long as 25 to 35 years (shown by the long-term warranties offered by manufacturers.) This can potentially mean that your business can enjoy decades of free electricity, vastly reducing your overall utility costs over time.
2. Businesses Enjoy Solar Tax Deductions
An unexpected benefit of installing a new solar energy system is the access to deductions during tax season. Business owners can take advantage of a federal tax credit known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) to deduct up to 26% of the total cost of the installation of a solar energy system.
There are also many states which offer tax deductions on the state tax level as well that business owners can utilize to save even more money the first year that they move to solar. This saving can help business owners justify the cost of solar investment with the money they may potentially receive back through tax incentives.
3. Solar Energy Is Maintenance-Free & Incredibly Reliable
When it comes to utility expenses, one of the highest costs outside usage costs is maintenance. Complicated systems that utilize various moving parts and non-renewable energy sources must be kept functioning year-round. In a good year, this means routine maintenance costs. However, should a system break down or fail completely, you may be facing a costly repair or replacement cost of an already inefficient system.
Not only can a solar energy system save you money on your average business utility bill, but the system itself requires little – if any – maintenance work. Beyond the original installation costs, the typical routine work necessary for solar arrays is cleaning to maintain high functionality. Most solar companies will offer cleaning plans as part of their install package, which can save you even more money over time. Besides a much lower utility cost, solar systems will go lengths to protect your budget.
4. The Priceless Savings Of A Green Reputation
For businesses looking to extend their savings beyond the monthly utility bill, a solar energy system can help you in more intangible ways. Not only can solar energy help you save money on energy usage, but there are monetary benefits to being seen as a green energy company.
With consumers growing increasingly concerned about how companies and industries care for the environment, businesses who make the decisions to move to renewable energy sources can enjoy an increased brand reputation and recognition. Costumers and clients will be more likely to align themselves with a company that is forward-thinking, meaning increased revenue and loyalty over time.
Choosing The Right Solar Provider
As we have seen, what often keeps business leaders from investing in solar energy are the upfront costs involved in an array system installation. Yet, with the knowledge of how solar energy can save on average utility costs, as well as the other benefits included in a solar energy source.
When beginning to research companies to help your business install solar energy systems, consider working with an energy team who can work with you to develop both an installation plan as well as long-term savings estimates. This information can help business leaders present solar energy as a promising investment to stakeholders and investment firms, helping to cover initial costs.
Make sure that the reputation of your solar energy installation team is well-known in the industry, and that they offer cleaning and routine maintenance programs to help you keep your system efficient. With a premium solar energy system, your business can begin enjoying much lower utility costs and the reputation of being a company focused on protecting its customers and the environment they enjoy every day.
