Solar energy isn’t just sustainable—it’s a smart financial move for businesses of all sizes. At Maine Solar Solutions, we make the transition seamless with expert guidance and personalized support. Whether you run a small business, manage a large facility, or oversee a farm or school, we design cost-saving solar solutions tailored to your energy needs and budget.
Why Choose Commercial Solar?
Instead of unpredictable electric bills, solar lets you turn an ongoing expense into a long-term asset. Maine business owners can lock in stable electricity costs for 30+ years while reaping financial and environmental benefits.
Understanding the ROI of Commercial Solar
See how a commercial solar system can deliver significant savings and financial benefits. In this sample scenario, the customer’s electric bill is $1,850 per month ($22,242 per year).
| Total System Cost: $250,000 | The solar system’s installation cost includes solar panels, inverters, installation work, and warranties. |
| *Federal ITC (30%): $75,000 | Businesses can deduct 30% of the system cost from their federal taxes. |
| *Depreciation Benefits: $77,500 | Depreciation refers to a reduction in the value of an asset over time. Under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), businesses can typically depreciate solar systems in the first 5 years. |
| Net Cost After Incentives: $97,500 | Your net cost after incentives (Federal ITC and depreciation). |
| Annual Savings and Income Breakdown: The yearly financial benefits you’ll get from the system |
| Electric Bill Savings: $22,242 | In this example, the customer saves $22,242 annually. |
| Renewable Energy Credits (REC) Revenue: $2,970 | RECs are tradable certificates that represent the environmental benefits of generating renewable energy. It’s up to you to sell them, providing additional income. |
| Total Annual Savings & Income: $25,212 | This is the sum of your electric bill savings ($22,242) and REC revenue ($2,970), which together generate $25,212 in annual savings and income. |
| 30-Year Internal Rate of Return (IRR): 22% | IRR measures investment returns over time. A 22% IRR means a business can expect a 22% annual return on its investment over 30 years. |
Payback Period: 5 Years | The payback period is the time it takes for the system to pay for itself through savings and income. |
Additional Incentives & Long-Term Benefits
Going solar offers more than just cost savings—it’s an investment with many valuable incentives:
- *Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Businesses may be able to deduct 30% of the cost of their solar systems, including battery backup systems, from federal taxes.
- *Accelerated Depreciation (MACRS): Solar systems qualify for a 5-year depreciation schedule, boosting financial returns.
- Federal REAP Grants: While these are highly competitive, and funding is shrinking, some Maine businesses and agricultural producers may qualify for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant. Learn if you are eligible for a REAP Grant.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Solar provides reliable, clean energy when businesses need it most, reducing expenses and increasing profits.
- Improved Bottom Line: Solar shields businesses from energy inflation, enabling predictable long-term budgets for 30 or more years.
- Increased Property Value: A solar-equipped building can increase in value by up to $20 for every dollar it generates annually.
- Stronger Brand Equity: Going solar demonstrates your commitment to sustainability, improving your brand’s reputation and appealing to eco-conscious customers.
*Maine Solar Solutions does not provide tax, legal, or financial advice. Please consult a tax professional to confirm your company’s eligibility for federal incentives.
Go Solar with Maine Solar Solutions
At Maine Solar Solutions, we guide businesses across Maine through solar’s financial and operational benefits. Our free solar site assessment takes a consultative approach—our in-house experts evaluate your property, offer tailored recommendations and custom designs, and present the best solutions to fit your budget and energy goals.
Ready to explore solar? Contact us today to get started!
