Thinking about installing commercial solar for your business? You’re not alone. Energy costs aren’t getting any cheaper, and businesses across industries are looking for ways to cut expenses, lock in stable rates, and take control of their energy costs. Commercial solar has become a go-to solution, helping businesses slash electricity bills by 50-80% and protect themselves from utility rate hikes.
But here’s the thing: not every property is an automatic fit for solar. Roof space, structural integrity, shading, and local utility policies all play a role in whether a solar system will actually deliver the savings you need.
So how do you know if your property is right for solar? This guide breaks it down.
What Makes a Commercial Property Ideal for Solar?
A good solar installation isn’t just about putting panels on a roof—it’s about designing a system that delivers real cost savings and long-term reliability. Here’s what makes a property a great candidate:
1. Plenty of Open Roof or Ground Space
Solar panels need room to work. The more open, unobstructed space available, the more power they can generate.
- South-facing roofs get the best sun exposure. East- and west-facing panels also work but may require additional panels to meet energy needs.
- HVAC units, vents, and skylights can limit available space, which could impact system size.
- Ground-mounted solar is an option for properties with unused land or large parking lots—especially in industrial, agricultural, or warehouse settings.
2. High Energy Usage & Peak Demand Costs
If your business uses a lot of electricity, you have the most to gain from solar. Companies with large daytime energy needs (manufacturing plants, distribution centers, cold storage, etc.) benefit the most.
- Reviewing past energy bills helps determine how much of your power solar can replace.
- If you pay demand charges (extra fees for high energy use at peak times), solar + battery storage can cut those costs.
A solar consultant can analyze your utility bills and design a system that maximizes savings.
3. Energy Usage and Business Needs
The size of your solar system depends on your energy consumption. Businesses with high electricity bills benefit the most from solar.
Before designing a system, a solar consultant will analyze your past energy bills to determine:
- How much solar energy can replace your current electricity usage.
- Whether battery storage would help offset peak demand charges.
- If efficiency upgrades (like LED lighting or smart HVAC systems) should be done before installation to maximize savings.
What Challenges Can Affect Solar Installation?
Not every property is a perfect fit for solar right away. Here are some common hurdles—and how to work around them.
1. Roof Age & Repairs
If your roof needs replacing in the next 5-10 years, it’s smart to combine a new roof with solar installation. Many businesses take advantage of tax incentives to offset the cost of both.
If replacing the roof isn’t an option, solar carports or ground-mounted solar might be the better play. Your solar installation provider will recommend the best option for your specific business’s needs.
2. Shade & Obstructions
Shade kills solar production. If trees, buildings, or rooftop equipment are blocking the sun, panel placement needs to be adjusted.
- Shading analysis tools can calculate how much production is lost and whether it’s worth trimming trees or changing layout.
- Bifacial solar panels (which collect light from both sides) can help offset shading issues.
3. Local Utility & Zoning Rules
Solar installation isn’t just about your property—it also depends on local utility regulations and permitting requirements.
- Some utilities try to limit how much solar energy businesses can generate.
- Certain areas have longer permitting processes, which can delay installation.
- Net metering policies determine whether you can sell excess solar power back to the grid.
Be sure to work with a commercial solar provider who is familiar with your location, local utility, and Federal laws that dictate what your utility is required to allow a business to do. They’ll handle all of these details for you.
Is Commercial Solar a Smart Financial Move?
Beyond technical feasibility, the biggest factor in going solar is whether it makes financial sense. Here’s how to break it down.
1. The ROI on Solar for Businesses
Solar isn’t an expense—it’s an investment that pays for itself. Businesses that install solar typically:
- Cut electricity costs by 50-80%.
- See an ROI in 2-7 years, depending on incentives and energy savings.
- Increase property value, making it a smart asset for building owners.
2. Tax Incentives & Financing Options
There’s never been a better time for businesses to invest in solar, thanks to federal and state incentives.
- The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) covers 30% of solar installation costs (Energy.gov).
- Businesses can depreciate solar equipment through bonus depreciation and MACRS, lowering taxable income.
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and leasing options let businesses go solar with no upfront cost while still reducing electricity rates.
If financing is a concern, solar consultants can walk you through the best options to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
How to Get a Solar Assessment for Your Property
The best way to find out if your property is a good fit for solar is to schedule a professional solar assessment. This includes:
- A property evaluation to assess roof condition, space availability, and shading.
- An energy bill analysis to determine potential savings and system size.
- A financial breakdown showing upfront costs, tax incentives, and ROI projections.
Some commercial solar providers, such as Artisun Solar, offer free feasibility studies, so there’s no risk in seeing what’s possible.
Take the Next Step Toward Energy Independence
Not every property is immediately ready for solar, but that doesn’t mean it’s off the table. Most businesses have options, whether it’s rooftop solar, ground-mounted panels, or solar carports.
But here’s the reality: the sooner a business switches to solar, the more it saves in the long run. Every month without solar means another month of paying rising utility rates with no end in sight. While businesses that invest now lock in predictable energy costs for decades, those who wait will keep absorbing higher electricity prices—cutting deeper into their bottom line.
Don’t wait for energy costs to climb even higher. Take control of your expenses, increase your property value, and secure your business’s energy future today.
