Are Solar Carports Good for Businesses?

If you're a business owner in Columbus or central Ohio wondering whether a solar carport makes sense for your property, the short answer is: absolutely.

Solar carports aren’t just a trend — they’re a smart long-term investment that adds real-world value in multiple ways.

Why Solar Carports Make Sense for Businesses

Here’s what you gain by installing a solar carport:

• Lower Energy Costs: Offset your utility bills by generating solar power right where it’s used.

• Covered Parking: Provide shaded, weather-protected parking for employees, customers, or your vehicle fleet.

• Federal & State Tax Incentives: Take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit and accelerated depreciation (MACRS). Ohio businesses may qualify for additional grants or utility incentives.

• Visible Sustainability Commitment: A solar carport is a statement. It shows your customers and community that your business values clean energy and environmental responsibility.

• Efficient Use of Space: Carports turn unused parking lots into productive energy assets — no roof required.

Whether it’s a retail lot, manufacturing facility, or office park, solar carports are scalable and customizable to your specific energy needs and space.

What Makes Solar Carports Different from Rooftop or Ground Mount?

Unlike rooftop systems, carports don’t require roof reinforcement or penetrate the building structure. Unlike traditional ground mounts, they serve a dual function — producing energy and sheltering vehicles.

We’ve installed solar carports in Columbus-area businesses where:

• The existing roof wasn’t ideal for solar.

• Parking areas provided more sun exposure.

• The visual impact of solar mattered for branding.

It’s one of the most visible and functional ways to go solar.

FAQs: Solar Carports for Ohio Businesses

How much do solar carports cost in Columbus, Ohio?
Costs vary by size, system capacity, and site conditions. For commercial installations, total system costs (after incentives) typically range between $2.00–$3.50 per watt. Custom quotes are always the best route.

Do solar carports qualify for the 30% federal tax credit?
Yes. Solar carports qualify under the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), just like rooftop or ground-mounted solar systems.

Can my business depreciate the cost of a solar carport?
Yes. Through MACRS, you can depreciate 85% of the cost over five years — often resulting in over 50% of your investment being covered between depreciation and the federal tax credit.

What types of businesses benefit most from solar carports?
Ideal candidates include:

• Banks

• Schools

• Grocery stores

• Office buildings

• Industrial facilities

• Any business with large, sunny parking lots

At BC Solar, we believe in doing the right thing — and helping Ohio businesses gain energy independence while improving their properties. If you’re interested in a solar carport solution, we’d be glad to take a look at your site and share honest, transparent options that make sense.

Want a custom solar carport proposal?

📞 Call us at (614) 442-9700
📍 Visit: https://bc.solar
🏢 777 Busch Ct, Columbus, OH 43229