How Nonprofits Can Save 15% on Commercial Solar Installation
By Charles Schaffer
With various solar financings to choose from, it's difficult for nonprofits to know which alternatives give the best financial returns.
Solar energy is a clean and renewable power source that reduces a property's carbon footprint — but the price tag doesn't always make it the best investment. At SDC Energy, we develop programs that help nonprofits save money on financing their solar energy project.
In an inflationary economic environment, the cost of electricity from public utilities is subject to higher than historical average price increases. Therefore, prepaying for electricity may also be an inflation hedge.
SDC designed the Prepaid Solar Financing Program for commercial solar customers that cannot take advantage of the federal tax benefits of a solar installation. Over the last 12 years, SDC has funded over 160 business solar projects in the US.
When The Solar Investment Tax Credit Doesn't Apply
One of the most significant incentives for direct ownership of solar systems is the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offered by the federal government. For 2022 solar projects, the ITC gives 26% of the solar installation cost back to the commercial project owner as a tax credit.
But, since nonprofits do not have a tax liability, they cannot take advantage of this rebate. Therefore, nonprofits don’t get a financial break from the federal government.
Fortunately, there is a break available through the private sector.
SDC Energy works with private investors who can use solar tax credits by investing in projects. We pass part of the savings on to your nonprofit. The program allows nonprofits like yours to save 15% on their solar installation based on a prepayment for 20 years of solar energy.
Note that the prepayment is for 20 years of expected solar generation. It is not a capital contribution to the cost of the solar system. SDC takes care of the capital costs, so you don’t have to worry about other solar payments.
The Process For Saving on a Solar Installation
Here is SDC Energy’s 4-step process for how your nonprofit can get started with discounted solar:
Hire a qualified commercial solar contractor to provide the equipment's installation, project warranty, and performance guarantee
Sign SDC's prepaid solar financing program
The contractor completes the installation and approvals to turn on the solar equipment
Keep the solar panels and rest of the system clean — and enjoy renewable energy for years to come
SDC Energy takes the complex tasks off your plate by automating a smooth onboarding and financing journey.
Our collaborative approach to problem-solving and customer service provides you with professional support from the initial sales consultation to project completion.
Think of SDC Energy as your private banker working to help you finance and then own your solar energy assets.
Let's Discuss Solar For Your Nonprofit
You may have some specific questions about how this all works.
Please get in touch with SDC Energy if you or someone you know could benefit from our Prepaid Solar Financing Program. Learn more about which solar installation program fits your nonprofit best.
Charles Schaffer
President and Founder, SDC Capital Ventures
Charles has founded and operated several development companies over his 35+ year history to pursue his passion for Alternative Investing where he believes outsized returns can be achieved without a corresponding increase in risk. Under Charles' leadership, SDC has developed and financed over $80 million of commercial real estate and renewable energy projects.
