Greening Your Business With Solar Panels: Is It Worth It?

Green businesses can’t just talk the talk, they have to lead by example.  Many green businesses have chosen solar for green credibility, public relations, and reduced power bills.  But are they a good investment?

Solar Panel Returns

Calculating an ROI on solar panels can be tricky.  Many factors must be accounted for, including: mounting area and angle, geographic region, shading, and weather patterns.  The best course of action to speak to a solar panel professional in your area.  They will be familiar with mounting techniques for your situation and determining just how much your solar panels will produce, which will help determine payoff.   In many areas, like California and Arizona, the payoff for a solar power system is less than 5 years.  If you’re planning on staying in your building for the long term, it’s definitely worth a look.

Getting Help From the Government

Many business owners aren’t aware that the same incentives that help owners pay for solar power on their homes are also available for small businesses.  In fact there are programs just for businesses.  You can research what is available in your area by going to the DSIREUSA.ORG.  There you can click on your state and look for programs from the state, municipality, and local power utility.  It’s always a good idea to speak to someone on the phone about your situation as the incentives change constantly.  The earlier you start this process the better, as some approvals can take a couple months.

Rapidly Declining Costs Mean Now is the Time

Solar panel system costs have been dropping steadily for the past 5 years.  Advancements in manufacturing, expansion of production capacity, and solar technology breakthroughs mean that solar panels now cost almost 50% less than they did just 3 years ago.  Solar has never been more affordable.  With the prospect of lowering your power bills, flashing your green credibility, and educating others about the power of the sun, solar can be a great investment for your business.

Kriss Bergethon is a solar writer and expert from Colorado.  For more information, or to find contactors in your area, visit his site at Solar Power.