Top 5 Considerations for Nonprofits Thinking About Solar Power

Is your nonprofit organization considering “going solar”? Installing solar panels can be a powerful way to further your mission by lowering energy costs, boosting property value, demonstrating fiscal responsibility, promoting environmental stewardship, and contributing to the well-being of your community.

At Mission Energy, we work exclusively with nonprofits to help them make informed decisions about solar installations. Based on our experience, here are the top five things your organization should consider before going solar:

1. Define Your Goals

First, clarify your organization’s objectives for installing solar panels. What do you want to achieve? Whether it’s reducing energy costs, advancing sustainability goals, or enhancing your public image, knowing your key decision-making criteria early will streamline the “go or no-go” process once the financial and technical evaluations are complete.

2. Location Matters

Choosing the right location for your solar panels is critical. The available space—whether on rooftops, carports or open land—will directly impact the size and effectiveness of your system. Ask yourself: Are the roofs in good condition? Is there land you can dedicate to solar panels for the long term? Should the panels be visible, or would you prefer they blend in with the landscape?

Your answers will help your solar developer design a system that maximizes energy generation while meeting your aesthetic and practical needs. The location decision also influences how much of your energy needs the solar installation can cover, making it essential to agree on where the panels can go.

3. Financial Considerations

One of the biggest questions when considering solar installation is how to finance the project. Solar power can significantly lower your energy expenses, allowing you to reinvest those savings into your mission. But first, you must decide how to pay for the installation.

Some nonprofits view solar energy as a long-term investment with a 30-to-40-year impact, focusing more on sustainability and legacy. Others prioritize a quick return on investment (ROI) and a reduction in expenses. You’ll also need to decide whether to fund the project outright or explore options like third-party Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), where no upfront capital is required, and you pay for the solar energy produced at a discounted rate.

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, nonprofits can now receive 30-50% of their solar project costs back as a direct rebate after installation. This game-changing policy makes solar a much more attractive and financially feasible option for organizations.

4. Align with Your Mission

For many nonprofits, solar isn’t just about cost savings—it’s about furthering their mission. Utility savings can be redirected to support your mission. Does your organization have sustainability goals? Are you committed to reducing your carbon footprint? Solar energy can help you achieve those goals while serving as a visual testament to your environmental commitment.

Using solar energy can also enhance your reputation with eco-conscious donors, partners and employees while acting as a teaching tool for community engagement. Whether it’s supporting your development office in attracting new financial support or aligning with your mission of stewardship, solar can provide significant intangible benefits.

5. Trust Your Developer

Not all solar developers are created equal. Choosing the right partner is crucial for ensuring your project's success. A solar installation is a long-term collaboration that can span months or even years, so it’s important to work with a developer you trust.

At Mission Energy, we’ve built long-standing relationships with our nonprofit clients by providing expertise, transparency, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of mission-driven organizations. Before selecting a developer, ask the right questions and choose a partner who understands the nuances of the nonprofit sector. A successful solar project requires mutual trust and open communication from initial design to final installation.

ABOUT MISSION ENERGY

Mission Energy is an expert in developing solar and storage solutions for nonprofit organizations so they can focus on advancing their mission. With a commitment to empower any nonprofit to implement clean energy solutions, Mission Energy has partnered with clients across the United States and completed more than 40 projects totaling 14MW with another 12MW under development. For more information, visit www.mission.energy.