How to Choose the Right Clean Energy Solution for your Business in Chicago

Understanding Your Business's Property Use 

When choosing the right clean energy solution for your business, the first step is understanding your property use. Are you an owner-occupied building? Are you a commercial tenant? Do you have a 10-year lease or short-term lease? What is your main source of power consumption, is it restaurant equipment, or might it be the 300+ hotel rooms consuming different varieties of power year-long? Analyze your business's electricity consumption over the past year. Look at your utility bills to identify patterns in your energy use, particularly during peak times. This will help you determine the size and type of a solar array you need, or the size of a community solar project you need to enroll into.

Evaluating Your Roof's Suitability

Your roof plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of a potential solar installation. Evaluate whether your roof is suitable for solar panels by considering its age, material, and the amount of available space. Additionally, assess the direction and angle of your roof, as flat roofs typically offer the best solar exposure.

Keep in mind that shading from nearby trees or buildings can significantly impact the efficiency of your solar system. If shading is an issue, you may need to consider trimming back trees or opting for a ground-mounted system instead. If your building is two-stories or higher, shading is typically not an issue.

Ask yourself the following questions:

- Is my roof less than 5 years old or is it time for a new roof replacement?

- Is my roof at least 40,000 square feet or more?

- Am I the only energy consumer on-site or are there multiple other tenants that I can potentially sell the electricity to?

- Do I have adjacent land of at least 6 acres or a parking lot of 40,000 square feet?

If you answered yes to all three of these major questions, you are likely a prime candidate for a Solar Roof Lease, Land Lease, or a Power Purchase Agreement, whereby you can lock in a guaranteed long-term rate per kWh, or $ per aquare foot of rental income, for 15+ Years, where the owner-operator of your system will provide a nuts-to-bolts operations and maintenance package during the life of the system.

No Roof Space? Just a Tenant? Community Solar is perfect for you

Solar panels come in various types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film panels. Monocrystalline panels are known for their high efficiency and sleek appearance but are generally more expensive. Polycrystalline panels are more affordable but slightly less efficient, while thin-film panels are lightweight and flexible but usually require more space.

Consider your budget, available space, and efficiency needs when selecting the type of solar panels for your home. Consulting with a solar expert can also provide valuable insights into which option would be best suited for your specific circumstances.

Exploring Financial Incentives and Rebates

One of the most appealing aspects of going solar in Chicago is the array of financial incentives and rebates available to homeowners. The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct a significant percentage of your solar installation costs from your federal taxes. Additionally, Illinois offers its own incentives, such as the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which can further reduce costs.

Research these incentives thoroughly to maximize your savings and make your solar investment more affordable. It's also wise to consult with a financial advisor or solar professional to ensure you're taking full advantage of all available benefits.

Selecting a Reliable Solar Installer

Choosing a reputable solar installer is crucial for a successful solar project. Look for companies with strong customer reviews, industry certifications, and a solid track record of successful installations in the Chicago area. A reliable installer will offer comprehensive consultations, transparent pricing, and robust warranties to guarantee the longevity and performance of your system.

Request quotes from multiple installers and compare their offerings to find the best fit for your needs. Don't hesitate to ask questions about their experience, licensing, and insurance coverage to ensure you're making an informed decision.

Maintenance and Monitoring

Once your solar system is installed, regular maintenance is essential to keep it running efficiently. Fortunately, most solar systems require minimal upkeep, typically involving periodic cleaning of panels and inspections to ensure optimal performance. Many installers offer maintenance packages to simplify this process.

Consider installing a monitoring system to track your energy production and consumption in real time. This will help you identify any issues promptly and ensure your system is operating at peak efficiency.