Is Solar Power Right for Your Business? Factors to Consider

While you might be most familiar with the presence of solar panels on residential homes, they are not limited to this setting by any means. Solar power setups can also be created on various commercial buildings - is adopting solar energy the right approach for your business?

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to serve as one of the top solar companies across Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas, offering a wide range of both residential and commercial solar power services to clients around both states. Here are some of the key benefits that many businesses find from utilizing solar panels, plus some major factors to look into as you determine whether solar energy might be a prudent approach for your business.

Benefits of Solar Power for Businesses

There are several potential benefits of utilizing solar panels at your business location, including:

• Energy savings: The most obvious benefit of commercial solar power is the potential savings on energy bills. With solar panels, businesses can generate their own electricity and reduce or even eliminate reliance on traditional utility companies.
• Tax incentives: In many states, there are tax incentives available for businesses that invest in renewable energy sources like solar power. A good example is the 30% Federal solar tax credit, which expires for businesses on December 31, 2027. This can help offset the initial cost of installation and make it a more financially feasible option. 
• Environmental impact: By utilizing solar power, businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
• Brand image: Many consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious and actively seek out businesses that prioritize sustainability. By using solar power, businesses can enhance their brand image and attract eco-conscious customers.
• Energy independence: By relying on solar power, businesses can become less dependent on traditional fossil fuels and have more control over their energy source. This can provide stability in times of fluctuating energy prices and supply disruptions.

Factors to Consider for Your Business

Is a move to solar power a prudent one for your business? Here are a few chief areas to be looking into as you attempt to answer this question.

Solar Suitability

One of the first and most important things to consider is whether your site/building is suitable for solar power. Factors that can affect suitability include the building's orientation, roof pitch, and shading from trees or other buildings. A professional solar energy company can perform a site assessment to determine if solar is a viable option for your business.

Energy Usage

Another key factor to consider is your business's energy usage. The more electricity you consume, the greater potential there is for cost savings through solar power. If your business operates during peak daylight hours, you may see significant reductions in your energy bills by switching to solar.

Costs and Savings

Investing in solar power requires an upfront investment, but it can also lead to long-term cost savings. Solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, many governments offer incentives and tax breaks for businesses that switch to renewable energy sources such as solar.

Environmental Impact

Switching to solar power can also have a positive impact on the environment. Traditional electricity production relies on fossil fuels, which contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By using solar power, your business can reduce its carbon footprint and help combat climate change.

Backup Power

In addition to providing your business with renewable energy, solar panels can also serve as backup power during emergencies or outages. This added benefit can provide peace of mind for business owners, knowing that their operations will not be affected by power outages.

Worthwhile for Brand Image?

Another important consideration when determining whether to install solar panels on your business building is the positive impact it can have on your brand image. As more and more consumers are prioritizing sustainability and environmental responsibility, having solar panels can be seen as a responsible and forward-thinking choice for your business. This can not only attract environmentally conscious customers, but also improve your reputation in the community.

As you can see, there are a few key factors to be evaluating if you're considering installing solar panels on your business building. Ultimately, the decision will depend on a variety of factors specific to your business and location. However, with the potential cost savings, environmental benefits, and positive impact on brand image, it's certainly worth considering as an option for powering your business.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to offer a wide range of commercial solar power services to clients around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho areas. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business harness the power of the sun and make a positive impact for your company and our planet.