15 December 2021

Capital businesses going green and cutting costs with new commercial solar solutions

| Katrina Condie
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Aerial view of commercial property with trucks lined up and solar panels on roofs

The energy generated by a commercial solar system can directly impact a business’s bottom line. Photo: ActewAGL.

From small family operations to large commercial buildings, Canberra business owners are embracing the benefits of installing their own power stations.

Whether it’s a commercial rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system, or battery storage solutions, businesses are harnessing the sun’s energy to reduce their carbon footprint and slash operating costs.

ActewAGL group manager of strategic partners Sean Davis has seen a significant increase in the uptake of commercial solar systems during the past six to 12 months.

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And since it was launched in July 2021, businesses have embraced ActewAGL’s new Business Energy Solutions package, which Mr Davis said empowers businesses of any size and type to waste less and save more with future-focused smart energy solutions.

“Our business customers are really starting to see the benefits of solar as a powerful investment,” he said.

“We can now provide bespoke commercial solar solutions to maximise the potential of any business, whether it’s a bakery, small private office complex, or a large commercial multi-site operation.”

Man and woman at work in light industrial warehouse

More Canberra business owners are doing their bit to reduce their carbon footprint. Photo: ActewAGL.

Mr Davis said many business owners have a focus on decarbonisation as well as reducing their operating costs by drawing less energy from the grid.

“Business are seeing the many benefits, and the price of PV equipment has reduced significantly so the payback time can be as little as two or three years,” he said.

“They can have their own renewable energy generator on their roof for the next 20 years.”

If a business uses the majority of its energy during daylight hours, the energy that can be generated from a personal solar PV system will directly offset the energy required from the grid.

Mr Davis said commercial solar is more efficient, more environmentally friendly and more innovative.

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“When you go solar, sustainability is just the beginning,” he said. “Switch on to the power of the sun and you’ll reduce your operating costs and potentially increase the value of your facility.”

The ACT is leading Australia when it comes to residential renewable energy, and commercial operations aren’t far behind.

“We’ve definitely seen the explosion of PV in the residential market, but now business owners are also wanting to do their bit to reduce their carbon footprint,” said Mr Davis.

“We’re seeing all sorts of businesses making that commitment to sustainability.”

As well as saving money and helping the environment, Mr Davis said installing a commercial solar system now can ensure businesses are on the front foot and ready to tap into the newest energy solutions, such as electric vehicle charging systems.

Workman on roof installing solar system

The ActewAGL Canberra team can create bespoke commercial solar solutions. Photo: ActewAGL.

ActewAGL Canberra’s team can assess, scope and quote a bespoke commercial solar solution to maximise the potential of any business or facility.

Mr Davis said because they are Canberra-based, every customer from the capital region – and beyond to Nowra, Eden and Goulburn – will have a dedicated account manager and they’ll always have a go-to contact for support.

“Every business appreciates the importance of supporting local, and when they choose us, not only does their money stay in your local community, they get the benefit of an expert team that’s based right here in the capital region,” he said.

Harness the sun to significantly reduce your energy costs with ActewAGL’s Business Energy Solutions package.

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