It’s a cliche, but it’s true: in the world of nonprofits, every dollar counts.
If you’re operating under a tight budget, with funds primarily directed toward supporting the core programs and services that advance your mission, high operating expenses are a major financial bottleneck.
However, many nonprofits in New Jersey are discovering how an investment in solar energy makes it possible to save big on utility bills while also promoting their values. Solar panels for nonprofits can provide a unique combination of cost savings, financial flexibility, and positive environmental impact. Plus, the up-front investment can actually be far lower than you would think. Here are six ways that solar energy can benefit your non-profit organization.
1. Lower Electricity Costs and Reinvestment in Mission-Driven Work
Electricity expenses can take up a lot of a non-profit’s operational budget, diverting funds from mission-critical activities. A commercial solar panel installation helps non-profits to lower monthly electricity bills and offers a predictable and consistent source of energy.
Some non-profits, such as Calvary Lighthouse, have even achieved 100% energy independence by switching to solar with Geoscape Solar. The fixed, lower cost of energy frees up resources that can be reinvested into essential programs and services. Whether it’s funding a new initiative, expanding existing programs, or increasing outreach, solar savings provide the financial flexibility needed to fuel your mission.
2. Fixed Energy Costs for Better Financial Planning
Less reliance on grid electricity, which fluctuates due to market conditions, means less risk of unsustainable cost increases. Solar energy locks in fixed energy costs over time. Whereas traditional electricity prices tend to rise, the stable and consistent payments made for solar systems can make budgeting more predictable and less challenging for long-term financial planning.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has found that the average cost of electricity in the U.S. has increased by 2.3% per year over the last decade. Solar energy, by contrast, offers a stable, predictable energy cost for 25+ years.
3. Increased Property Value
Solar installation doesn’t just reduce operational costs—it also increases the value of the property itself. A study by The U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that commercial properties with solar installations sold for an average of 4.1% more than comparable properties without solar panels. This shows that solar panels can provide a strong return on investment for non-profits.
Commercial solar panels are a tangible asset that add value by lowering operating costs, protect against future energy price hikes, and thereby make the property more attractive to potential buyers or investors. As a long-term investment, solar panels both strengthen your financial standing and improve your organization’s asset base.
4. Little to No Upfront Cost
Solar grants for nonprofits can cover a portion — or even all — of the costs associated with a commercial solar panel installation. Power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases, and other financing structures allow nonprofits to install solar panels with little to no upfront cost. These arrangements often involve a third-party financier covering the installation costs while your organization pays a fixed, lower rate for electricity.
Federal, state, and local governments often offer grants for solar panels for non-profits, including non-profit solar grants. For example, in New Jersey, there are specific programs designed to help organizations go solar, with incentives and rebates to offset installation costs. Private organizations and foundations also offer non-profit funding opportunities for sustainability projects like solar energy installations.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that the average non-profit can receive anywhere from 20% to 50% in federal tax incentives, rebates, and grants for solar energy installations. These savings can make it possible for your non-profit to transition to solar with little or no upfront capital investment.
5. Leading by Example: Promoting Sustainability and Reducing Carbon Footprints
Nonprofits are often at the forefront of advocating for positive change. By transitioning to solar energy, your organization can lead by example. Your solar installation demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility — and makes a real difference! You can reduce your carbon footprint while inspiring others in your community to consider solar energy as a viable and responsible energy solution.
As more non-profits make the switch to solar, they send a powerful message about the importance of renewable energy and its role in creating a sustainable future.
Get Started with Solar Energy
Solar energy is not just an energy solution. It’s an investment in your nonprofit’s financial health, short-term cost savings, long-term sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Get in touch with Geoscape Solar, an experienced, trusted solar installer for nonprofits in New Jersey to get started and chart a path forward with solar energy.
