Written by Sarah Lozanova

 

Corporate solar energy installations have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years and become mainstream. Although many of the top solar companies include giants like Apple, Amazon, and Walmart, many small and medium-sized businesses in Georgia are also going solar. Retail stores, office buildings, rental units, golf courses, medical buildings, hotels, restaurants, and farms are all good candidates.

 

So why has solar power become so popular among businesses in Georgia?

 

Commercial solar projects have an excellent return on investment

Although many businesses think of purchasing a solar system as an expense, it is actually an investment that will save money for about 30 years. Also, the cost of a solar installation has fallen more than 70% in the last ten years, making it affordable to many Atlanta businesses. 

 

And, your solar investment has a very low risk. At Solar Plus, we use some of the most reliable solar equipment available, and it comes with manufacturer warranties. For example, our solar panels have a 25-year warranty.

 

Solar power reduces operating expenses

Unfortunately, Georgia Power bills can drain the bottom line, especially as rates increase. However, it can be difficult to budget for future energy costs because of rate hikes. Installing a commercial solar PV system can dramatically reduce or virtually eliminate electricity bills. And, solar panels help lessen the impact of future rate hikes. Therefore, going solar is an excellent hedge against rising energy prices.

 

Solar installations provide tax credits and bonus depreciation

The federal government offers a tax credit (the ITC) for 26% of the total system cost for projects installed through 2022. This means a $50,000 solar system comes with a $13,000 tax credit and bonus depreciation on top of that. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in taxes owed to the federal government. 

 

Unfortunately, the ITC is scheduled to taper down to 22% in 2023 and then down to 10% for commercial applications in 2024. This means 2022 is an excellent year to go solar before the rate of the commercial solar tax credit decrease.

 

In addition, companies with solar systems can also take advantage of bonus depreciation or accelerated depreciation. With bonus depreciation, companies can write off the entire expense of the solar system in year one. Under the accelerated depreciation approach, it takes six years and follows the Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System or MACRS. Speak with a tax expert to find out how your business can take advantage of solar tax incentives.

 

Using renewable energy promotes brand image

One-third of the largest corporations have created a net-zero emissions strategy and using renewable energy is one of the best ways to achieve this. Companies are setting aggressive targets largely because of consumer demand to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Even companies associated with fossil fuels, like Shell and BP, are relying on solar energy. 

 

Although small and medium-sized businesses in Atlanta aren’t under the same pressure as these multi-national corporations, using clean energy still helps promote a positive brand image and increase customer loyalty in Georgia.

 

Solar PV equipment is highly reliable

Commercial solar systems are virtually maintenance-free because they contain no moving parts. As an Atlanta-based solar company dedicated to quality, we install the best solar panels and inverters on the market. We choose solar manufacturers with extensive track records and use only photovoltaic products protected by long warranties. 

 

But, even the best solar panels won’t produce well if they aren’t installed correctly. At Solar Plus, we believe in getting the job done right to truly serve our customers. In fact, all of our installation teams are led by a NABCEP-certified solar PV professional.

 

Solar energy development supports the local economy

Typically, a lot of our energy dollars leave the state or even the country. However, solar energy is the opposite because it keeps our energy dollars close to home when using locally-owned solar installations companies. In fact, there are more than 3,000 employed in solar energy in Georgia and more than 200,000 across the United States. 

 

At Solar Plus, we use local solar technicians to complete our solar installations. As a locally-owned solar company, we believe in paying a living wage and protecting worker safety. We often install solar panels that were manufactured right here in Georgia. In addition, Solar Plus is a recognized Minority-Owned Business (MBE) by the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council.

 

Solar batteries deliver emergency power during grid outages

Unfortunately, Georgia ranks fifth in the United States for the longest power outages. Typically, outages are caused by extreme weather events, downed trees, or equipment failure. Long power outages are especially disruptive to businesses and can result in lost revenue or even damaged goods or property. As a result, solar systems with battery storage have become popular throughout the Atlanta region.

 

These solar systems are connected to the power grid. However, during blackouts, the batteries power critical loads. The Solar Plus team can program them to automatically respond to power outages so the lights won’t even flicker. 

Want learn more about installing solar panels on your business? Contact the Solar Plus team today to learn more!