Feeling the pinch of rising energy costs? Retrofitting your business with solar energy can significantly reduce operational costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and contribute to a cleaner, greener province.
While solar power offers many advantages, it’s important to consider the upfront costs, payback period, and property specifics before committing. Solar is generally a smart investment if your business has high energy costs or sustainability is your brand’s core value. However, every business is unique, so carefully evaluate if retrofitting with solar aligns with your financial goals and energy needs.
Here are the processes and practical considerations for your Nova Scotian business when switching to solar power.
Government Incentives for Business
Do some homework on how you can tap into government incentives. Retrofitting your business with solar energy will allow you to power (pun not intended) your future in so many ways.
The Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit is a refundable credit equal to 30% of the capital cost of eligible clean technology equipment that became available after March 27, 2023. As a refundable credit, a company does not need to pay tax to receive it. This tax credit is claimed by filing a prescribed form with the claimant’s income tax return for the year the eligible property was acquired. It’s a good idea to contact your Accountant. (Source: Solar Nova Scotia)
Note: Before applying, you should contact your utility to understand the cost of interconnecting your solar project because interconnection costs vary widely.
The Commercial Net Metering Program from Nova Scotia Power is available to customers looking to net-meter up to 1 MW to offset up to 100% of their annual electricity usage.
The Agriculture Beneficial Management Practices (BMP) Program is available from Efficiency Nova Scotia to help farmers in Nova Scotia switch to solar and solar storage.
Steps to Retrofit Your Business with Solar
1. Conduct an Energy Audit
Before going ahead, conduct an energy audit to assess your current energy use and identify areas for improvement. An energy audit can also help Solar Ascent determine the appropriate size and type of solar system for your business. We will provide you with a report on potential savings, too – all helping your bottom line.
2. Evaluate Your Property for Solar Suitability
The success of a solar retrofit depends on your building’s location, roof angle, and sun exposure. Solar Ascent, an experienced solar installation company in Nova Scotia, can evaluate your site and recommend the most efficient system.
3. Choose a Reliable Solar Provider
Partnering with a trusted solar installation provider is essential, like Solar Ascent 🙂 Look for local companies with experience in retrofitting businesses in Nova Scotia, as they will be familiar with the province’s best practices and compliance requirements.
4. Monitor Your Solar System
Once the system is installed, monitoring is key to maximizing your solar investment. Many solar panels come with software that allows you to track energy production in real time.
Ready to Retrofit Your Business with Solar?
Switching to solar can be a significant but rewarding step toward sustainability and cost savings. With the support of government incentives, falling costs of solar technology, and rising energy prices, there’s never been a better time to retrofit your business with solar energy in Nova Scotia.
Take the first step today by consulting with Solar Ascent.
Solar Ascent, we make solar simple. ☀️
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