Commercial Solar Solutions

Yes. The federal government provides a 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for commercial solar system installations.

Yes. Commercial systems can take advantage of accelerated depreciation (MACRS) to write off a significant portion of the installation cost in the first year.

For systems installed in 2025, a 40% bonus depreciation is available in 2026. For systems installed in 2026, a 20% bonus depreciation is available in 2027.
These benefits significantly reduce the payback period and provide substantial tax savings.

Yes. Many commercial customers take advantage of financing options such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) and solar loans, which allow them to install solar systems without making a large upfront investment. These models can help reduce capital expenditure while delivering long-term energy savings.

Due to their larger size and more complex design and permitting requirements, commercial solar systems typically take 4 to 6 months to complete. Timelines may vary depending on local permitting requirements, building conditions, and system size.

In service areas like Southern California Edison (SCE), Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), the implementation of NEM 3.0 means that installing solar panels alone may result in limited utility bill savings.

However, if your business consumes most electricity during the day and has minimal night-time usage, a battery may not be strictly necessary. That said, for blackout protection, demand charge control, or operating specific equipment (like gate systems or security systems), ESS installation can still be a smart investment.

The benefits you receive from solar depend on your utility provider — and there’s a big difference between LADWP and Edison service areas.

• LADWP (NEM 2.0):
  You get full 1-to-1 credit for the excess solar energy you send back to the grid. This means your bill savings are more significant, and solar is highly cost-effective.

• Edison (SCE – NEM 3.0):
  Under new rules, you receive much lower credits for exported energy, especially during the day. At night, you still pay higher rates for electricity. Because of this, battery storage is often recommended to maximize savings.

In short, even with the same solar system, your savings and credits can vary greatly depending on your utility company — so it’s important to know which provider services your home before installing solar.

Commercial systems involve larger-scale installations, more sophisticated energy analysis and system design, and varied financing models (PPA, lease, etc.). Permitting and tax treatment are also more complex but can offer greater financial benefits.