The Economic Power of Solar: A Game Changer for Businesses and the Environment…
In today’s fast-paced world, businesses are under increasing pressure to reduce costs, become more energy-efficient, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. One of the most impactful ways to achieve all of these goals is by investing in solar energy. As the cost of solar technology continues to fall, solar power is no longer just a ‘nice to have’—it’s now an essential part of a strategic, future-focused business plan.
The Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) – Solar is More Affordable Than Ever
The Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) is a key metric used to assess the cost-effectiveness of energy generation technologies. Solar power has reached an exciting LOCE milestone, with the cost of electricity from a new solar array now less than 5p per kWh. This represents an astounding 80% reduction in the cost of grid supplied power.
This drop in cost is a direct result of technological advances, economies of scale, and increased competition in the solar market. What was once a costly and niche technology is now a viable, affordable solution for businesses across all sectors. With these low costs, solar power offers a clear and immediate opportunity for businesses to reduce their operational expenses and protect themselves from rising energy prices in the future.
Return on Investment (ROI) – Strong Financial Returns
The decline in capital costs for solar technology has significantly improved the return on investment (ROI) for businesses. Solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays now offer returns of between 25% and 40%. These strong returns are comparable to those for other elements of business capex. However, as a solar PV array has a 30 year lifespan, the level of return puts solar at the top of tree for corporate investment. In addition to short payback periods, improved solar product warranty terms make solar PV an ever more secure and popular purchase option, especially in today’s low-interest-rate environment.
The Economic Benefits – More Than Just Cost Savings
The financial benefits of solar energy extend beyond just energy savings and ROI. There are numerous additional economic advantages that make solar an attractive investment for businesses, including:
- Increased Property Value: Properties equipped with solar installations have been shown to increase in value. Buyers and tenants are increasingly looking for energy-efficient, low-carbon buildings, making solar a valuable asset for property owners.
- Energy Independence: Solar energy reduces dependence on external energy suppliers, protecting businesses from fluctuating energy prices and the uncertainty of energy supply. This is particularly important in an era of increasing energy volatility.
- Sustainability Credentials: Many businesses today are focused on achieving net-zero carbon goals. By investing in solar power, companies can drastically reduce their carbon footprint, enhance their sustainability credentials and attract environmentally conscious customers and investors.