4 Reasons Your Business Should Go Solar

There are many reasons to consider investing in solar power, especially in the Golden State. California’s recent mandate that new homes must have rooftop solar panels may have you thinking about installing a rooftop array for your business, too. Even though San Francisco is known partly for its picturesque fog, the city averages more than 3000 hours of sunlight each year. Every home and business in the city is an excellent candidate for solar energy. Relying on the sun’s energy has many benefits.

Your Bottom Line

As a business, you have to prioritize your bottom line. Going solar in San Francisco can save you money in several ways. Obviously, by harnessing the sun’s power, you use less from the energy grid. That translates into significant savings on your monthly bill. Many businesses can take advantage of accelerated depreciation on their solar expenditure, realizing their return on investment much sooner than on other types of investments. You will save extra money during tax time as well: a federal credit of 26% can be combined with possible additional state tax credits. Municipalities may offer rebates, net metering or other solar incentives; consult your solar installer for more information specific to your area. 

If these monthly and yearly savings are not enough, consider the rise in your overall worth. Solar power can increase the value of your property considerably, which will boost your bottom line and help if you need to borrow money for other improvements. The value of your business will go up along with your reputation in the community.

The Planet

You probably already know that solar has been the fastest growing renewable electricity source in the U.S. for years. Using renewable, sustainable energy is important for the whole planet. Residential solar is helping, but you can do even more by powering your business in an ecologically responsible way. By reducing your carbon footprint, you show that committed business owners need not rely on dirty energy to power their profits. Be one of the first firms in your neighborhood to go solar and you will set an example for others in the area. It is the best way to put the slogan, “think globally, act locally” into practice.

Customer Connection

Customer loyalty is based in large part on a set of common beliefs. Consumers care about the planet, and they reward businesses who show that they care as well. By installing solar panels, you are doing your part to stop depleting the earth’s limited resources, and your clients will do their part to support you in those efforts. Corporate social responsibility measures, when employed correctly, can increase sales by up to 20% and enhance a company’s reputation in the community. Your customers will be happy to know that, by patronizing your business, they are promoting renewable energy. 

Solar energy is a uniquely beneficial CSR practice because it helps you serve customers better. When you produce your own power, you are no longer at the mercy of rolling power outages. You can also worry less about wildfires causing an interruption to your energy supply. You may be able to stay open while other merchants in your locale must close due to power outages. New customers will give you a try and existing customers will have more reason to remain loyal.

Employee Morale 

Customers are not the only people who appreciate when companies support causes they believe in. Research confirms that employees respond positively to CSR measures just as much as customers do. Employers with effective CSR programs enjoy incredible employee loyalty, with turnover rates 50% lower than average. Workers are also more productive during the workday, which enhances profits and may cause share prices to rise. Your employees will be proud to work for a firm that cares about the planet, and is willing to invest accordingly. How many employer actions can save money while improving employee morale? Not many, but going solar may prove to do exactly that.