How to Lower Business Utility Bills with Solar Power

A Guide to Cost Savings and Sustainable Energy

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As energy costs continue to rise, many businesses are exploring ways to cut down on utility bills without compromising their operations. Solar energy offers a powerful solution that not only reduces monthly expenses but also positions companies as sustainability leaders in their industries.

At Shawton Energy, we’ve seen firsthand how commercial solar can transform energy consumption for businesses. Here, we take a closer look at how solar can lower your business utility bills and set you on a path to energy independence.

Cost saving with solar energy solutions

Switch to Clean, Renewable Power

Solar power allows businesses to generate their own electricity by harnessing sunlight, effectively reducing their reliance on the grid.

During sunny days, commercial solar panels can supply a significant portionor even allof a business’s energy needs. By generating electricity on-site, this means that companies can offset a considerable amount of their monthly utility costs.

Many of our clients see reductions in their energy bills of up to 30% after switching to solar. The savings can vary based on factors such as the size of the solar system, geographic location, and typical energy usage, but the results are often substantial.

Take a look at some of our case studies to find out how Princes, Duo Plastics, and Dakota Hotels use solar energy to generate their own renewable energy.

Take Advantage of Government Incentives and Tax Benefits

Governments worldwide are supporting renewable energy adoption with financial incentives, which can drastically reduce the initial investment cost of a solar system.

In the UK, businesses may be eligible for tax deductions through schemes like the Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA), which allows businesses to claim 100% first-year capital allowances on qualifying equipment, including solar panels.

Additionally, many companies benefit from the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which allows businesses to earn money by selling any excess solar energy back to the grid. These incentives can further improve the return on investment (ROI) for solar energy, lowering utility costs and providing an additional revenue stream.

Lower utility bills with solar power

Achieve Long-Term Stability with Fixed Energy Costs

One of the greatest advantages of commercial solar is the stability it brings to energy expenses. Traditional utility prices fluctuate based on market conditions, often leaving businesses vulnerable to unexpected increases. Solar energy, on the other hand, offers a predictable cost structure. Once the system is installed, the cost of generating solar power remains consistent, allowing businesses to budget more effectively.

This long-term price stability is especially valuable for companies with high energy demands or seasonal usage variations, providing them with a reliable and predictable energy source.

With independent research revealing that energy prices for small industrial and manufacturing businesses are set to rise and exceed pre-crisis levels by around £200,000 annually, it’s never been more important for businesses to implement measures to help stabilise costs and mitigate financial risk.

Reduce Carbon Footprint and Improve Brand Image

Beyond financial savings, solar energy has a positive environmental impact that resonates with customers, partners, and employees alike. With sustainability becoming a priority for many stakeholders, businesses that commit to renewable energy sources like solar can demonstrate their commitment to the planetstrengthening their brand image and positioning themselves as eco-conscious leaders, too.

By reducing dependence on fossil fuels, a business can significantly cut its carbon emissions. This aligns with both government targets and public expectations, helping to future-proof your business in an increasingly sustainability-focused world and support your company’s path to net zero carbon.

Gain Greater Energy Independence

Pairing solar panels with an energy storage solution – such as a commercial-grade battery – can maximise the benefits of your solar investment.

With a storage system, businesses can store excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours and use it during off-peak times or at night. As a result, this further reduces dependency on the grid, enabling companies to manage energy costs even more effectively.

Also, in times of high utility rates or during power outages, having a stored energy reserve can be a game-changer. It helps businesses keep operations running smoothly and avoid costly downtime.

Benefit From AA Long-Term Investment with High Returns

While the upfront cost of a solar system may seem substantial, the long-term savings make it a worthwhile investment.

It’s worth noting that there are also funding options available which don’t require businesses to invest any upfront capital– affording access to solar energy solutions without impacting cash flow.

Furthermore, as solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25-30 years, they provide a reliable energy solution for decades. Businesses often see their initial investment paid off within 5-7 years, too – depending on usage, location, and available incentives after which the energy generated is essentially free.

This high return on investment means that, over time, businesses can allocate their energy savings to other important areas of growth, from expanding operations to investing in new technologies.

Enjoy the Benefits of a Power Purchase Agreement

For businesses looking to benefit from solar without the initial investment, Shawton Energy offers a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) option. With a PPA, we cover the costs of the solar system installation, allowing you to enjoy clean, renewable energy without any upfront expenses. This makes it easy for businesses to get started with solar, accessing immediate savings on utility bills while avoiding capital expenditure.

Under a PPA, Shawton Energy installs and maintains the solar system on your property, and you simply pay for the solar energy you use at a predetermined rateoften lower than grid prices. This arrangement means you benefit from reduced energy costs and stable rates, without worrying about maintenance or operational expenses.

A PPA offers a smart, accessible way to reduce your utility bills, enhance your environmental credentials, and enjoy all the benefits of solar with minimal risk.

How Shawton Energy Can Help Your Business Save with Solar?

At Shawton Energy, we’re dedicated to helping businesses of all sizes transition to solar energy and achieve substantial savings on their utility bills. Our team works closely with each client to design, install, and maintain solar solutions tailored to their specific energy needs and goals.

We begin with an in-depth energy assessment to understand your current utility usage and identify areas where solar can have the greatest impact. From there, we design a system that maximises sunlight capture and efficiency, helping you save on energy costs from day one. Our ongoing support includes maintenance, performance monitoring, and guidance on taking advantage of government incentives.

We provide an end-to-end solar energy solution, and we’re with you every step of the way.

If you’re ready to explore how solar energy can reduce your utility costs and bring long-term stability to your business, contact our friendly team of solar experts. We’re here to answer your questions, assess your needs, and design a solution that brings the power of solar to your business.

Let’s work together to lower your utility bills and create a brighter, more sustainable future for your business.

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