Should Your Company Lease Solar Panels?

A Straightforward Guide for Columbus Businesses

Solar energy is booming in Ohio—and for good reason. With energy costs rising and sustainability gaining importance, more commercial property owners are looking at solar panel installation in Columbus as a smart move.

But here’s the question: Should your company lease solar panels, or should you buy them outright?

Let’s break down what leasing means—and whether it fits your financial and operational goals.

What Is Commercial Solar Leasing?

When you lease solar panels, you don’t pay the full cost to own them. Instead, you sign a long-term agreement with a solar provider. They install and maintain the system on your roof or property, and you pay a fixed monthly fee or pay for the electricity generated.

Think of it like a car lease—but for power.

The Pros of Leasing Commercial Solar Panels

Leasing might be right for your business if:

• You want low upfront costs – Leasing often requires little or no money down.

• You prefer predictable monthly expenses – Lease terms are fixed, helping with budgeting.

• You don’t want the maintenance burden – The provider usually handles monitoring and repairs.

• You want to act fast – Leases can often be deployed quicker than full ownership plans.

This is ideal for many Columbus businesses like:

• Banks or offices in leased buildings.

• Nonprofits and organizations without access to tax incentives.

• Large warehouses or manufacturing spaces with steady daytime power needs.

The Drawbacks You Should Know

Leasing isn’t perfect—and it’s not for everyone.

• You won’t own the system – That means no depreciation benefits or increased property value.

• You can’t claim the solar tax credit – That goes to the system owner, not you.

• Lease terms can be long and inflexible – Often 15–25 years.

• Buyout options vary – If you want to purchase the system later, it could be costly or restricted.

At BC Solar, we always walk you through every contract. No surprises. No fast talk.

How BC Solar Can Help

At BC Solar, we don’t lock you into one-size-fits-all systems. We custom design around your building, your goals, and your financial plan. If leasing makes sense—we’ll help you find a fair, transparent deal. If buying offers better value—we’ll break down the real numbers.

Owner Brian Zaayer is directly involved in every commercial project. We’ll give you straight answers and honest pros and cons.

FAQs

Q: Can I switch from leasing to owning later?
Some leases include buyout options after a set number of years, but terms vary. Always read the fine print.

Q: Will solar panels leased on my building help reduce my electric bill?
Yes. Most leases offer guaranteed energy savings based on your usage, especially if your operations run during daylight hours.

Q: What happens if I sell the building?
Leases typically transfer with the property—but that requires lender and buyer cooperation. We help structure deals that minimize hassle.

Still unsure? Let’s talk it through.

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