Many people would endorse switching from dirty, polluting energy sources like gas and oil to clean, renewable sources like wind and solar — but it can also be confusing. Luckily, if you are a commercial or industrial business, there is a resource that can help make that switch as simple as possible.
What is EnergySage?
EnergySage, a Boston-based company founded in 2009, is "the Expedia of solar panels," helping both homeowners and businesses find solar panel installers in their areas.
"Every day, millions of Americans shop for clean energy products and energy-saving solutions, and thousands of companies look for well-qualified customers to connect with. But the process is often complex, expensive, and intimidating," the company's website says. "That's why we built EnergySage — the simplest, most trusted way to make confident energy decisions and to gain control over the buying process."
Currently, EnergySage is hoping that businesses will take advantage of the federal investment tax credit (ITC) for solar panels.
"If you want to take advantage of this incentive, now's the time: the ITC won't stick around forever, but you have some time," the company wrote. "While it's currently at 30%, it's scheduled to decline to 26% in 2033 and then drop to 22% for businesses beginning in 2034."
According to EnergySage, between the ITC and depreciation benefits like MACRS — or Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System — companies can save more than 50% on new solar panel systems.
Why is clean energy important?
Dirty energy sources like gas, oil, and coal have been powering the majority of our society for a while, but they have massive drawbacks. When burned, these energy sources release heat-trapping air pollution that is causing the overheating of our planet. This planetary warming is leading to more extreme weather events (causing insurance rates to skyrocket), contributing to the spread of disease, creating disruptive ocean chemistry changes, and more.
Solar panels, on the other hand, harvest the clean, renewable energy of the sun without creating air pollution in the process — and they can even save you money in the long run.
By taking advantage of government incentives for clean energy, businesses can reduce their energy bills and see big savings in the long run.
🗣️ If you were to install home solar panels, which of these factors would be your primary motivation?
🔘 Energy independence ⚡
🔘 Lower power bills 💰
🔘 Helping the planet 🌎
🔘 No chance I ever go solar 🚫
🗳️ Click your choice to see results and speak your mind
How EnergySage helps with clean energy
"Many other companies are always trying their best to get someone to buy something, at the highest price," Charlie Hadlow, EnergySage's president and COO told The Cool Down. "We are dedicated to providing knowledge and transparency that empower people to make the best choices for themselves, their families, and their homes."
Since EnergySage is focused on getting you the best deal, its online marketplace is a great free resource to find all the answers you need about switching your business' or home's energy supply to solar panels — and maximizing the tax incentives available to boot.
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