FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our approach and services:
General
Our team employs a multi-pronged approach to minimize operating expenses, which includes:
- Conducting comprehensive energy audits to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement
- Developing customized energy management plans that prioritize high-impact, cost-effective solutions
- Implementing energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED lighting, smart thermostats, and high-efficiency HVAC systems
- Integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar PV systems, to reduce reliance on grid electricity
- Leveraging advanced analytics and real-time monitoring to optimize energy performance and prevent waste
Lowering operating expenses has a direct and positive impact on a property's net operating income (NOI). By reducing energy costs, which often constitute a significant portion of total operating expenses, property owners can improve their cash flow and bottom line. This increased NOI can lead to higher property valuations, improved CAP rates, and a more attractive investment profile.What is the relationship between energy efficiency and CAP rate? Energy efficiency improvements can positively influence a property's CAP rate in several ways:Lower operating expenses result in higher net operating income, which is a key factor in calculating CAP rateProperties with strong energy performance and sustainability features are increasingly sought after by investors, potentially leading to lower CAP rates (and higher valuations) due to increased demandEnergy-efficient buildings are often perceived as less risky and more valuable, as they are better positioned to comply with evolving energy regulations and tenant preferences
Energy efficiency improvements can positively influence a property's CAP rate in several ways:
- Lower operating expenses result in higher net operating income, which is a key factor in calculating CAP rate
- Properties with strong energy performance and sustainability features are increasingly sought after by investors, potentially leading to lower CAP rates (and higher valuations) due to increased demand
- Energy-efficient buildings are often perceived as less risky and more valuable, as they are better positioned to comply with evolving energy regulations and tenant preferences
Our team of experts stays up-to-date on all available federal, state, and local tax incentives related to energy efficiency and renewable energy. We'll work closely with you to:
- Identify applicable tax credits and deductions based on your property's specific energy projects and upgrades
- Provide guidance on the necessary documentation and certification requirements to qualify for these incentives
- Assist in preparing and submitting the appropriate forms and applications to ensure you maximize your tax benefits
Our team of experts will conduct a comprehensive energy assessment of your property and develop a customized Strategic Capital Energy Plan. This plan identifies all available local, state, and federal clean energy programs, incentives, and grants that can help you minimize your energy expenses. We'll also connect you with credible build partners and financing options to ensure a seamless and cost-effective implementation of energy-saving solutions.
Commercial Energy US offers a range of services designed to help commercial property owners reduce their energy costs, improve their net operating income, and achieve their ESG goals. Our services include:
- Rooftop Solar & Ground Mount Solar Systems
- Custom Solar Carports & Canopies
- Commercial EV Chargerszz
- Commercial Battery Storage
- Commercial HVAC & Commercial Property Automations with Venue Management System Access Controls
Our team of experts will conduct a comprehensive energy assessment of your property and develop a customized Strategic Capital Energy Plan. This plan identifies all available local, state, and federal clean energy programs, incentives, and grants that can help you minimize your energy expenses. We'll also connect you with credible build partners and financing options to ensure a seamless and cost-effective implementation of energy-saving solutions.
A Strategic Capital Energy Plan is a comprehensive roadmap designed to optimize your property's energy performance, reduce operating expenses, and boost your net operating income (NOI). By identifying opportunities for energy efficiency upgrades, renewable energy installations, and leveraging available incentives and grants, this plan provides a clear path to maximizing your property's financial performance and sustainability.
Our team has extensive knowledge and experience in identifying and securing all available local, state, and federal clean energy programs, incentives, and grants. We'll handle the research and paperwork, ensuring that you capitalize on every opportunity to minimize your upfront investment and maximize your long-term savings.
Yes, we have established relationships with over 800 credible financing partners who offer flexible, zero-down financing options for energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy installations. This allows you to implement energy-saving solutions without significant upfront capital expenditure, making it easier to achieve your energy goals and improve your bottom line.
The process typically involves the following steps:
- Site assessment and feasibility study
- System design and engineering
- Permitting and approvals
- Installation and commissioning
- Ongoing monitoring and maintenance Our team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation tailored to your property's unique needs.
To get started, simply contact our team to schedule a complimentary feasibility study and consultation. We'll assess your property's energy performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and propose a customized plan to help you achieve your energy, financial, and sustainability goals. Visit our website or call us today to take the first step towards transforming your commercial property and unlocking the power of clean energy.
General Solar Questions
Solar panels are made up of multiple silicon cells that capture the sun's UV rays and convert them into Direct Current (DC) electricity. The panels are connected to an inverter that converts the DC electricity into Alternating Current (AC) electricity, which is the type of power used by businesses, homes, and the utility grid in the United States. Modern inverters also provide safety features, system monitoring, and performance tracking.
Yes, solar modules are designed to be highly resilient to storms, including heavy rain, high winds, and hail. Manufacturers rigorously test their panels to ensure they can withstand hail up to 1 inch in diameter and winds up to 140 MPH. Additionally, since solar panels are typically insured against storm damage, they offer an added layer of protection for your roof or vehicles.What warranties are provided for the solar equipment? At Commercial Energy US, we offer robust warranties on our equipment and workmanship to ensure optimal performance of your solar panel system. These warranties include:Modules: 25 YearsInverters: 10-12 Years, with options to extend up to 20 YearsMounting: 25 YearsWorkmanship: 5 Years
At Commercial Energy US, we offer robust warranties on our equipment and workmanship to ensure optimal performance of your solar panel system. These warranties include:
- Modules: 25 Years
- Inverters: 10-12 Years, with options to extend up to 20 Years
- Mounting: 25 Years
- Workmanship: 5 Years
Solar panels capture the sun's UV rays, not just visible sunlight, to generate power. Just as you can still get a tan on a cloudy day, a portion of UV rays can penetrate through cloudy or snowy conditions, allowing solar panels to continue producing energy, although at a slightly reduced efficiency compared to clear, sunny days.
Several factors influence the power production of a solar panel system, including:
- Module efficiency: Higher efficiency modules generate more power.
- Inverter efficiency: The percentage of energy that is converted from DC to usable AC electricity by the inverter.
- Module tilt: The angle of the modules can impact the amount of direct UV rays they receive.
- Module azimuth: In the northern hemisphere, a fixed system will produce more energy when facing 180° South, while in the southern hemisphere, 180° North is optimal.
- Location: Systems installed closer to the equator generally produce more energy.
- Weather: Areas with more sunny days will have higher energy production.
- Shade: Obstructions like HVAC units, vents, parapets, buildings, and trees can affect a system's performance.
The process typically involves the following steps:Site assessment and feasibility studySystem design and engineeringPermitting and approvalsInstallation and commissioningOngoing monitoring and maintenance Our team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and efficient installation tailored to your property's unique needs.
To get started, simply contact our team to schedule a complimentary feasibility study and consultation. We'll assess your property's energy performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and propose a customized plan to help you achieve your energy, financial, and sustainability goals. Visit our website or call us today to take the first step towards transforming your commercial property and unlocking the power of clean energy.
To get started, simply contact our team to schedule a complimentary feasibility study and consultation. We'll assess your property's energy performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and propose a customized plan to help you achieve your energy, financial, and sustainability goals. Visit our website or call us today to take the first step towards transforming your commercial property and unlocking the power of clean energy.
To get started, simply contact our team to schedule a complimentary feasibility study and consultation. We'll assess your property's energy performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and propose a customized plan to help you achieve your energy, financial, and sustainability goals. Visit our website or call us today to take the first step towards transforming your commercial property and unlocking the power of clean energy.
To get started, simply contact our team to schedule a complimentary feasibility study and consultation. We'll assess your property's energy performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and propose a customized plan to help you achieve your energy, financial, and sustainability goals. Visit our website or call us today to take the first step towards transforming your commercial property and unlocking the power of clean energy.
To get started, simply contact our team to schedule a complimentary feasibility study and consultation. We'll assess your property's energy performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and propose a customized plan to help you achieve your energy, financial, and sustainability goals. Visit our website or call us today to take the first step towards transforming your commercial property and unlocking the power of clean energy.
Solar Incentives
Some common tax incentives for commercial properties investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy include:Some common tax incentives for commercial properties investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy include:
- The Federal Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar PV systems and other renewable energy installations.
- Accelerated depreciation schedules for qualifying energy-efficient equipment and building upgrades.
- State and local tax credits, grants, and rebates for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.
- The 179D commercial building energy efficiency tax deduction for qualifying HVAC, lighting, and building envelope improvements.
A positive tax environment, characterized by favorable incentives and deductions for energy efficiency and renewable energy investments, can provide several long-term benefits:
- Reduced tax liabilities, which can improve cash flow and allow for more capital to be reinvested in the property
- Accelerated returns on investment for energy projects, making them more financially attractive and feasible
- Increased asset value and marketability, as properties with strong energy performance and lower operating costs are more desirable to potential buyers and tenants
- Improved resilience and adaptability to future energy regulations and market demands, as the property is well-positioned to comply with evolving standards
Our team actively monitors legislative developments, regulatory changes, and industry trends to ensure we provide our clients with the most up-to-date and accurate information on available tax incentives. We participate in industry associations, attend conferences and workshops, and engage with policymakers and experts to stay at the forefront of the evolving energy landscape. This allows us to proactively identify opportunities and strategies that maximize the benefits for our clients.
The Federal Investment Tax Credit for Commercial Solar Projects is equal to 30% of the eligible project costs. Additionally, as part of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, there are 10% bonus adders to the Tax Credit that can increase its value to 40% – 50%. These bonus adders are available when Domestic Content requirements are met and/or the project site is located in an Energy Community.
A State Tax Credit is similar to the Federal ITC but varies by state and may not be available in all states.
Cash rebates are incentives sometimes offered by states, municipalities, utility companies, or other organizations to promote solar energy adoption. These rebates help reduce the total system costs but often have limited availability and end once a certain amount of solar has been installed. It's essential to act quickly when cash rebates are offered to ensure you can take advantage of these valuable incentives.
Performance-Based Incentives (PBIs) are offered in some states or by certain utilities. They provide solar energy system owners with a per kilowatt-hour credit for the electricity their systems generate. Some PBI programs may require the installation of equipment manufactured within the state to qualify. PBI rates are determined when the system is installed and/or based on the total solar capacity installed. PBIs may replace or exist alongside net metering policies.
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) are often part of larger Renewable Portfolio Standards enacted by some state legislatures. These policies require utilities to generate a specific percentage of their electricity from solar power by a certain date. If your system is located in one of these states, it will generate SRECs based on the amount of electricity it produces. Utilities will purchase your SRECs to count your solar energy production toward meeting their requirements. Selling your SRECs can result in hundreds or even thousands of dollars in additional annual income, depending on your state's SREC market
You can visit https://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/maps, filter the technology to show "Solar Photovoltaics," and then select your state to see the available incentives.
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