The ins-and-outs of solar energy

Summit Energy guided a senior living center through the process of selecting the most cost-efficient solar energy solution. Summit not only found the most competitive supplier in the marketplace, but also took advantage of state energy sustainability incentives.

Spend Less Green on Green Energy: As businesses look for ways to operate sustainably, renewable energy is becoming an increasingly viable option. Many states even offer rebates to large energy users that integrate renewable energy into their mix, including solar power. However, there are numerous, complex options to consider when purchasing solar energy. To maximize the environmental benefits while keeping costs manageable, businesses must approach this new venture from a position of industry knowledge accompanied by a strategic plan.

SITUATION
A company operating multiple senior living centers throughout the U.S. was investigating ways to improve the sustainability of its operations. Since New Jersey was offering rebates to businesses that took advantage of green energy options, the company chose its site in that state to implement a pilot solar energy program. If successful, the company planned to expand solar energy to its other sites.

However, the company soon realized it was navigating in unfamiliar territory and turned to its energy partner, Summit Energy, for guidance. The company asked Summit to review a proposal it had received from a solar energy provider and make a recommendation for moving forward.

LEADERSHIP
Upon review of the solar energy proposal, Summit recommended a robust RFP process that would bring more providers to the table and create a competitive bidding situation for the senior living center’s business. After identifying a number of viable suppliers, Summit used the incoming bids, along with its in-depth knowledge of the emerging solar energy market, to recommend a supplier that could provide the most cost-efficient solar power solution for the New Jersey site.

RESULTS
By introducing competition into the bidding process and making an informed recommendation, Summit Energy generated more than $400,000 in savings for the senior living center operator. Upon learning that it was competing against four other suppliers, the initial vendor lowered its price; however, it was not low enough. Summit and its client were able to select another vendor that could provide solar power and meet the company’s needs at a price that was substantially lower than the initial bid.

The ins-and-outs of solar energy.pdf