Solar adoption by businesses has been growing rapidly, especially in the last decade. Savings are the driving factor for many businesses going solar, however it can be a great investment for a variety of reasons.
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association’s (SEIA) 2024 Solar Means Business report, large corporations have continued installing solar at growing rates (1). Meta currently ranks in the top spot for most solar capacity, with Amazon and Google close behind. As of the report, Meta’s solar capacity sits at nearly 5.2 GW of energy capacity. This capacity held by Meta alone could power more than 900,000 homes with energy! Along with solar capacity, many large businesses utilize solar batteries to maximize savings and energy independence.
Today solar is accessible for all homeowners and businesses. Technology advancements, tax credits and incentives, and decreasing costs, it’s easier than ever for businesses to take advantage of the benefits of solar.
Reduce Operational Costs
For many businesses, the biggest motivator for solar is simple – it’ll help save you money. Solar power helps reduce overhead costs by allowing companies to generate renewable energy on-site. According to EnergySage, over a 20 year period, a typical commercial solar installation on a small to mid-sized business could save you $100,000 or more in electricity costs (3).
Maximize Tax Credits and Incentives
The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) provides a 30% credit on solar installations. There are often local or state level incentives and tax credits available on top of the ITC. New York State has some of the best solar incentives in the country, and between the Federal and State incentives, up to 70% of your commercial project cost could be covered.
In 2019, we helped the Capital Region Welcome Center go solar with this ground mount. Around 4 million people visit the welcome center each year! Read more about this install in our project spotlight.
“Love working with Mark and his team. This is a tremendous opportunity to get towards energy independence as a business!” -Thomas S.
“Kasselman worked with us with great patience and professionalism as [we] figured out financing to get our solar roof installed at Berith Sholom. Once our ducks were in a row, they got the system up in a matter of days, working effectively with National Grid and the Troy city inspector to get everything turned on. We’re up and generating!” -Daniel K.
Grow Brand Image
According to a 2023 consumer study, “74% of consumers indicated they are more likely to purchase from a company that is transparent about its sustainability practices (i.e., claiming carbon-neutrality, phasing out single-use plastics, using terms such as ‘eco’ or ‘biodegradable’, etc.) and shares updates on progress toward sustainability goals frequently.” (2)
Businesses are increasingly going solar, and it’s not just for financial reasons. Installing solar can improve your company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile. Solar creates a strong statement to employees and customers that your company is focused on the future. Switching to solar can be a great opportunity to market your business and attract customers and employees who follow similar values when it comes to the environment – it’s proven!
Get a glimpse into the many businesses we’ve helped go solar on our Commercial and Government Project Gallery.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Going solar is a great way to make a dent in your businesses carbon reduction goals, and show a commitment to sustainability! While you don’t necessarily have to work towards public sustainability goals like many larger corporations, you can certainly work towards carbon neutrality and reduction with solar.
Increase Energy Independence
Like homeowners, businesses can gain protection from growing utility rates when they generate their own power with solar. If you install a solar array that fully covers your electricity usage throughout the year, then your costs will drop drastically, especially once your system is fully paid off. For most individuals, you will still have a small utility bill payment covering delivery fees or other fixed service costs.
In New York State, you can take advantage of net metering. With net metering, any excess energy your system generates during the day will be sent off to the grid, compensating for nighttime when you will be pulling power from the grid. This allows you to utilize all energy generated from your solar system, even if you’re not actively using it.
5 Rivers Environmental Education Center, located in Delmar, NY, is home to over 10 miles of hiking trails and more! Learn more about our solar installation here.
Going solar isn’t just a smart environmental choice – it’s a smart business decision. At Kasselman Solar we’ve already helped thousands of homes and businesses take control of their utility bills. Ready to see how your business can save with solar? Get in touch!
- https://seia.org/research-resources/solar-means-business/
- https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/survey-reveals-consumers-prioritize-purchasing-sustainable-products-and-desire-greater-transparency-from-companies-on-sustainability-progress-301988839.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- https://www.energysage.com/business-solutions/commercial-solar-benefits/
