As summer temperatures rise, businesses see their energy costs soar. Air conditioners and cooling systems work overtime, driving up electricity use and triggering expensive demand charges—fees based on the highest power usage in a billing cycle. These charges can make up 30% to 70% of a commercial electricity bill, making summer a costly season for many businesses. But there’s a solution: solar energy.
By installing solar panels, businesses can cut their reliance on grid power during peak hours, lower demand charges, and keep operations running smoothly—even during heat waves. Here’s how solar helps businesses stay ahead of summer’s energy challenges.
- Slash Energy Costs During Peak Hours
Many utility companies charge the highest rates during peak hours—typically in the afternoon when air conditioners are running at full blast. Solar panels generate the most power during these exact hours, allowing businesses to offset costly grid electricity with free solar energy. By producing their own power, companies can avoid the highest-priced electricity and see immediate savings on their bills.
- Reduce Demand Charges That Drive Up Costs
Demand charges are based on the highest amount of electricity a business pulls from the grid at any moment. Even a short spike in energy use—like turning on multiple air conditioning units at once—can result in huge demand fees for the entire billing cycle. Solar panels help smooth out these spikes by supplying power when energy use is at its peak. By lowering their highest energy draw, businesses can significantly reduce demand charges and keep costs under control all summer long.
- Improve Energy Resilience and Avoid Outages
When extreme heat strains the grid, businesses that rely entirely on utility power risk brownouts or rolling blackouts. But solar energy provides a built-in safety net—especially when paired with battery storage. Solar panels generate power during the day, and batteries store excess energy to use later when the grid is stressed. This setup ensures businesses can keep critical operations running even if the grid goes down.
- Maximize Summer’s Longer Daylight Hours
Summer means more sunlight, which means more free energy from solar panels. Businesses can take advantage of extended daylight hours to generate more power during peak demand times. Plus, with battery storage, they can store extra solar energy to use in the evening, reducing reliance on grid power when rates are highest.
- Lock in Energy Savings for Years to Come
Electricity rates are rising, and peak summer demand is only getting worse. Businesses that invest in solar now lock in long-term energy savings, shielding themselves from future price hikes and market fluctuations. Once installed, solar panels generate power for 25+ years, providing businesses with stable, predictable energy costs for decades.
- Support Sustainability and Strengthen Your Brand
Switching to solar isn’t just about cost savings—it also aligns with corporate sustainability goals. Businesses that invest in renewable energy can reduce their carbon footprint, meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets, and enhance their reputation with customers who value sustainability. More companies are recognizing that going solar isn’t just smart—it’s good business.
Take Control of Peak Summer Demand with Solar
Don’t wait for summer energy bills to spike—prepare now with solar. Mission Solar Energy provides high-quality, American-made solar solutions that help businesses take control of their energy future. Reach out to us today, and we’ll connect you with a qualified installer near you to help you get started on your solar journey.