There are a multitude of factors that go into determining the feasibility of a solar energy project. Every business is different, with varying objectives, differing utility providers and rate schedules, numerous environmental factors to consider, and so on. SUNCAP aims to lay out these answers as clearly as possible, as quickly as time allows. Our team will conduct a thorough analysis of your business's energy usage and potential solar panel installation sites to determine if solar energy would be a viable and cost-effective option for your business. Additionally, we will assist you in navigating any regulatory requirements, such as state and federal tax incentives, that may be available to your business as a result of implementing solar energy solutions. Our goal is to provide a tailored solar panel solution that maximizes your energy savings and enhances your overall business operations.

The extent to which solar can offset your utility bills depends on factors like the size of the system, your energy consumption, and the utility's rate schedule and policies. Excess energy generated by the solar system can often be credited towards your utility bill through net metering, but there may still be some fixed charges or fees associated with being connected to the utility grid. In the majority of cases, solar energy boasts a solid return-on-investment and quick payback period, though every business will have a multitude of different factors to consider. At SUNCAP, education and a consultative approach are the core pillars of our foundation.

SUNCAP is dedicated to helping businesses transition to clean and efficient energy solutions, and that includes education on available incentives. There are a variety of incentives that can help businesses further improve their financial outlook for a solar energy project: - Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): The ITC is a federal tax credit that allows businesses to deduct up to 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal tax liability. - Domestic Content Bonus Tax Credit: The domestic content bonus credit was designed to boost American manufacturing, by providing a 10% bonus to the ITC for projects under the investment tax credit (ITC) for meeting domestic content requirements. US Made Solar Panels and/or US made Steel satisfy the domestic content requirements. - Direct Pay ITC (NPO/Municipalities): The new Inflation Reduction Act has introduced the Direct Pay provision, allowing tax-exempt organizations to be eligible for the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar installation. Before the provision, nonprofits had to create a tax burdened entity for investors to take advantage of the tax benefits. Direct Pay is a refund of the 30% tax credit as a direct payment, reducing the cost of installation and increasing the return on investment. Direct Pay is received after the PTO date of the solar installation and filed in the tax cycle in the beginning of the year. - Accelerated depreciation (MACRS): Businesses may be eligible for accelerated depreciation, which allows them to deduct the cost of their solar energy system over a shorter period of time, reducing their taxable income. - Net energy metering (NEM): NEM allows businesses to receive credit for the excess energy their solar panels produce and send back to the grid. This credit can be used to offset your business's energy costs. - State and local rebates: Many states and local governments offer incentives and rebates for businesses that install solar panels. These incentives can vary depending on your location and can help offset the upfront costs of installation. - USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP): This program provides grant funding and guaranteed loan financing to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements to their business. Grants are available for up to 50% of the total cost per project.

The duration of the installation can vary based on factors like system size and complexity. Typically, commercial installations can take a few weeks to a few months. While some disruptions to your business operations may occur during the installation, we aim to minimize them. We may schedule the work during off-peak hours, weekends, or holidays to reduce impact. Additionally, we can work in stages, focusing on one area at a time. Effective communication between parties is vital to address concerns and plan accordingly. By collaborating closely and keeping you informed, we can work to can provide a clear timeline and minimize disruptions, ensuring a successful installation while minimizing impact on your business operations.

The inverter components included in the system come equipped with ongoing system monitoring. Upon completion of the project, login credentials to the monitoring system will be provided for full transparency on the system's health and performance.

Solar energy systems require minimal maintenance. Routine tasks include checking for debris or shading, inspecting connections, and ensuring panel cleanliness. Occasional cleaning may be needed, and actively monitoring system performance helps detect issues. Overall, maintenance requirements are low, allowing the system to generate clean energy with little intervention. Operations & Maintenance agreements are available for projects that are in need of more extensive long-term support.

The expected lifespan of a solar energy system is typically around 25 to 30 years. During this time, the solar panels and inverters may require replacement. Replacing parts involves identifying the components that have reached the end of their lifespan and installing new ones. These replacements generally fall under the scope of the warranties provided.

Each system component will have a standard manufacturer's warranty. Manufacturers extended warranties may be available for an additional cost. Depending on final equipment selection, a 30 year third party warranty encompassing equipment, attachments, and warranty labor may also be available. Installer-provided workmanship warranties are also available on a case-by-case basis.

Yes, many solar energy systems are designed to be scalable. If your energy needs increase in the future, additional solar panels can typically be added to the existing system to accommodate the higher demand.