Demand charges decide the payback
Most commercial electric bills have two parts: energy used and the highest demand in the billing period. Solar reliably cuts the first but not always the second — a cloudy afternoon can let a demand peak slip through. For buildings with sharp peaks, like restaurants, workshops and cold storage, pairing solar with a battery programmed for peak shaving is often what makes the numbers work.
We ask for 12 months of interval data when a utility can provide it. Monthly totals alone hide the peaks that matter most.
Federal value for business owners
Businesses can still use federal clean-energy incentives that homeowners lost, but the solar deadlines are tight. As of September 2026, solar generally has to be placed in service by the end of 2027 to claim §48E unless construction began by July 4, 2026, and storage keeps eligibility much longer. 100% bonus depreciation has been restored for qualifying property. Confirm how these apply to your business with your tax advisor.
Permitting commercial arrays through PPRBD
Commercial projects go through the same regional building department as homes, with fuller plan review. Racking and any site-fabricated elements need a design stamped by a Colorado-licensed professional, using PPRBD’s snow and wind criteria. Ground mounts on rural parcels need a building permit only when the array stands taller than 7 feet, but they always need an electrical permit.
FAQ
Questions we hear
Does Colorado Springs Utilities’ new net-metering structure affect commercial customers?
Our research on the September 22, 2026 decision covers residential solar customers. Commercial customers should ask CSU directly how their rate class treats new solar before signing a contract.
Will solar lower my demand charges?
Sometimes, but not reliably on its own. A battery programmed to shave peaks usually does more for demand charges than panels alone do.
Can a ranch or shop east of Falcon use a ground mount?
Yes. Ground mounts are common on larger rural parcels. PPRBD requires an electrical permit for every array and a building permit when it stands taller than 7 feet.
How long do we have to use the federal commercial solar credit?
As of September 2026, solar must generally be placed in service by December 31, 2027 unless construction began by July 4, 2026. The rules are in flux, so plan with your tax advisor.