The use of safer energy options has become more profound today, and no sector is left out. One such option is solar energy, which offers tremendous benefits as people tap from the sun’s potential. But solar power is not just for the home alone, as non-profits can also gain from it.
So, in this write-up, we will present a guide on how non-profits can leverage solar energy in their operations.
1. Laying The Groundwork
Let us now talk about the groundwork that has to be put in place to have solar energy technologies installed to run certain operations in the office. First and foremost, you have to look at your budget and determine if you want the type of ownership system you will be going with.
Two types of solar energy system ownership exist – primary and third-party ownership systems.
You can own your solar energy technology with primary ownership after fully paying for it upfront.
Going this route will ensure that you enjoy a 100% saving on electricity and open you to some other financial benefits.
Plus, the value of your property will undoubtedly be upped with such a system. This raises the prospect of making more gains if you decide to sell the property.
However, it is essential to note that the cost and efforts of maintaining or repairing solar energy technology – when need be – will be on you. But there is nothing to worry about, as there is not so much stress.
It will also interest you to note that, in most cases, solar energy system lasts for 25 years. This means you will have to reinvest in another system once the lifespan [of a particular one] is reached.
On the other hand, a third-party ownership system entails getting your solar energy technology through others – an individual or some agency with the right of ownership. This ownership system is about the fastest means of non-profits becoming solar energy-enabled.
It is particularly embraced by many as it doesn’t require an upfront payment. You just have to lease the solar architecture and enter a power purchase agreement.
Like the other system, you will have full access to electricity – after buying the solar-generated electricity – without needing to pay the (conventional) electricity bill. More so, the service is not as expensive as utility electricity.
The maintenance and or repair of the solar system will be on the third-party agent. This means that as long as the agreement lasts, the agent can access the point of installation to do the needful. You may decide to have the lease agreement for the entire lifespan of a single solar energy technology.
Knowing about solar energy ownership systems is just a piece of the puzzle. It is equally necessary that you engage the services of a trusted service provider. The provider will evaluate your electricity/energy needs using your electricity bills. By this, you will be able to get an efficient and effective solar system installed for your use.
2. Financing
Financing a solar energy project can be challenging, especially when you are thinking about owning one outright. But you can get things sorted out through any available financing options. For one, governments of some states, in a bid to encourage the creation of an eco-friendly society, offer tax credits to organizations – non-profits inclusive – intending to go solar.
In the U.S., the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) initiative is a financing option designed to heave some burden off the shoulders of solar energy users.
Besides this, a certificate (identified as Solar Energy Renewable Credits (SRECs)) can also be acquired by solar energy users. The good thing about these credits is that you can sell them to get some funds.
Again, you can request a loan from potential grantors to fund your solar system installation through a lease or outright ownership.
Lastly, you can aim to finance your solar project through what you are known for – fundraising. You can use the need to make the environment a better (living) space for all as a communication bridge.
What Benefits Does Solar Energy Hold For Your Non-Profit?
You would have seen some snippets of the advantages delivered with solar energy technologies upon reading the previous sections. However, we feel there is a need for us to delve deeper into it – as the benefits are discussed under the following subheadings:
1. Healthy Financial Standing
The most apparent benefit conceivable with solar energy utilization is reduced electricity cost. You will certainly not have any lag in operation due to electricity issues.
More importantly, you will be able to have more funds committed to your charitable cause as electricity bills are out of the equation. This can ultimately contribute to the development of a healthy financial standing for your non-profit.
2. Environmental Sustainability
On a larger scale, the use of solar energy advances the cause of building a sustainable environment.
It follows that emissions associated with conventional electricity generation will be cut out, even as your organization’s carbon footprint is reduced. In essence, a cleaner energy source – solar-powered electricity – makes the community safer for everyone.
3. A Point Of Connection
The use of solar energy is a growing trend, especially given the growing concerns about global warming. Therefore, you can be a leading light in the extension or adoption of solar energy systems within your area of influence.
Moreover, your openness to solar energy usage could be more impactful as it can increase the probability of attracting (more) donors. They will see you as being environmentally responsible, which could strike a good chord – with long-term positive outcomes.
Final Words
Solar energy technologies hold many promises, and non-profits can tap into these to become more financially and operationally stable. You can enjoy these benefits once you have laid the proper foundation for the installation to be carried out.
And it’s good to know that the benefits also extend to your immediate environment. So, if you haven’t, you should be encouraged to join the trend and embrace cleaner energy today.
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