Solar Panels for Businesses: A Bright Energy Solution with a Powerful Bottom Line

One of the factors impacting energy prices is growing global demand. A photovoltaic array is a practical and affordable solution to hedge against rising prices. Solar helps to manage a business's current and future operating expenses, reduces demand on our current energy grid, and presents an excellent return on investment.

The ability to take advantage of utility incentives, coupled with the Federal ITC and generous MACRS depreciation, creates an environment that make solar electric systems both a financial benefit — with returns in as little as five years — and an endorsement to diversify the direction of today's energy landscape.

Given the abundance of sunshine in Central and Eastern Oregon, solar has the potential to supply a significant amount of electricity that is both environmentally and economically attractive.

At E2, we have decades of solar experience. This grants us an undeniable competitive advantage in the industry — we’re a leader in solar energy, which contributes to the success of our business and yours. Our technical team of electricians and certified solar technicians has the skills and experience to guarantee intelligent design, efficient construction and safe installation on every system. In short, we have a long history of outstanding performance and a dedicated commitment to the future of service to our customers.

Solar Economics

Energy Trust of Oregon: We are one of the few Energy Trust Trade Allies in Bend, Oregon. Businesses in Pacific Power territory receive cash incentives of up to $25,000 for projects <250kW, helping to reduce the upfront cost to install solar. Solar electric incentives have limited funding and are allocated by territory. These incentive rates apply to business, public, nonprofit, industry and agriculture customers. For more information on Energy Trust business incentives, call us or click here.  

Business Energy Incentives: The program is funded by Oregon Department of Energy and Oregon Department of Revenue through an annual auction of tax credits. Revenues are offered in the form of grants rather than tax credits and the Renewable Energy Development Grants are available to anyone who plans to install a renewable energy production system at a business. Grants are awarded up to a maximum of $250,000 per project and cannot exceed 35 percent of eligible project costs. Awards are granted to competitively selected projects that receive the highest number of points and on a first-come, first-served basis.

Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Established by the federal Energy Policy Act of 2005, the ITC allows taxpayers to claim a percentage of eligible costs for renewable energy systems. Effective through December 31, 2019, this credit is equal to 30 percent of expenditures. Systems placed in service after December 31, 2019 will see an annual reduction of 4% through 2022.

Blue Sky Community Project Funds: Since 2006, Pacific Power’s Blue Sky customers have helped fund new community-based renewable energy projects in Oregon. The Project Funds program assists with the capital cost of installing a renewable energy system. Projects are identified and selected through an application review and evaluation process which begins each spring. Funds are awarded in the fall and can range from a few thousand dollars to more significant investments. We at E2 Solar have been fortunate in having the opportunity to help businesses throughout Central Oregon receive awards. Call us for additional details; we are happy to assist you with the application process.

Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System: Under the federal MACRS, businesses may recover investments in certain property through depreciation deductions. Photovoltaics — as a renewable energy technology — are taken currently on a first accelerated basis. 

Rural Energy for America Program: Hundreds of farmers, ranchers and businesses are making greater business profits and slashing energy costs through the USDA Rural Energy for America Program. Under the USDA Rural Development program, rural small business and agricultural producers can apply for financing through grants and loan guarantees for the cost of a renewable energy system. REAP grants and guarantees may be used individually or in combination. Together they may finance up to 75 percent of a project’s total cost. Grants may finance up to 25 percent of a project or $500,000, whichever is less. REAP applications are accepted year round but are typically only funded during specific funding windows.

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