Financing Solar Power
Albury Wodonga Solar Professionals, CJ Power Solutions
Adopting solar energy has become a strategic decision for businesses in Australia, particularly in New South Wales and Victoria.
While the upfront costs of installing a commercial solar system may seem substantial, various financing options are available to make solar power accessible to businesses of all sizes.
This comprehensive guide will explore the financing solutions available to New South Wales and Victoria companies, empowering them to make informed decisions about their solar energy investment.
Understanding Financing Options for Commercial Solar Systems
Businesses can choose from several financing options to fund their commercial solar system installation:
- Cash Purchase: The simplest option is to purchase the solar system outright using the business's funds. This method provides immediate system ownership and benefits firms from depreciation deductions.
- Commercial Loans: Traditional commercial loans offer a flexible financing option with fixed or variable interest rates. Loans typically require a down payment and involve monthly repayments.
- Solar Leases: Under a solar lease, the business does not own the solar system but instead leases it from a solar provider. The lease payments cover the cost of the system, installation, and maintenance.
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): In a PPA, the solar provider installs, owns, and maintains the solar system, and the business purchases the electricity generated at a fixed rate. PPAs eliminate upfront costs but require long-term commitments.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Financing Option
When selecting a financing option, businesses should consider several factors:
- Financial Strength: Businesses should assess their capacity to repay or lease loans.
- Upfront Costs: Some financing options require significant upfront costs, such as down payments, while others, like PPAs, eliminate upfront costs.
- Ownership and Control: Businesses should consider owning or leasing the solar system. Owning controls the system, while leasing may offer lower upfront costs.
- Return on Investment (ROI): Businesses should evaluate the projected ROI of each financing option, considering electricity savings, government incentives, and potential tax benefits.
Financing Options for Commercial Solar Systems in NSW & Victoria
Both New South Wales and Victoria offer attractive financing options for businesses adopting solar power:
New South Wales:
- Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs): Businesses can earn STCs for installing eligible solar systems. These certificates are tradable for cash or used to reduce tax liabilities.
- Green Loans: Some banks offer specialised green loans with competitive interest rates and flexible terms for solar energy projects.
Victoria:
- Solar for Business Program: This program provides rebates for businesses installing eligible solar power systems.
- Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC): The CEFC offers a range of financing options for businesses investing in renewable energy projects, including solar power.
Conclusion
Commercial solar financing solutions provide businesses with various strategies to fund their solar energy investment. By carefully evaluating their financial situation, considering the available financing options, and understanding the applicable incentives, businesses in New South Wales and Victoria can make informed decisions that maximise the benefits of solar power while aligning with their financial goals.