This sounds too good to be true. What’s the catch?”
There’s no catch. Our model allows you to save on energy costs without upfront investment, while we earn through a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). We’ve implemented this successfully for many clients and can provide references or a pilot project to demonstrate its effectiveness
Frequently Asked Questions
General
What is Solar as a Service (SaaS)?
Solar as a Service means we install, operate, and maintain a solar photovoltaic (PV) system on your rooftop with no upfront cost to you. You benefit from reduced energy bills through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
What is a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?
A PPA is a contract where you agree to purchase the electricity generated by the solar PV system at a predetermined rate, typically lower than your current electricity rate, for a specified period.
Financial
How much do I have to invest?
You do not have to make any investments! We will handle re-roofing, upfront investment costs, and any ongoing maintenance required, while you get savings on your current utility bills and access to clean energy.
How can you offer this service without upfront investment from us?
We secure funding through investors who are interested in the long-term returns from the solar projects. This allows us to cover the installation and maintenance costs, and you pay only for the electricity generated.
What are the long-term financial benefits for us?
You save on energy costs over the duration of the PPA. Typically, our customers see immediate reductions in their electricity bills and significant savings over the contract period.
Are there any hidden costs or fees?
No, there are no hidden costs. All costs are covered by the rate specified in your PPA. Maintenance, monitoring, and insurance are included.
Technology and Operation
Who owns the solar PV system?
We retain ownership of the PV system throughout the PPA term. At the end of the contract, you may have options to extend the agreement, purchase the system at a reduced rate, or have it removed at no cost.
What happens if the system needs maintenance or repairs?
We handle all maintenance and repairs at no additional cost to you. Our team monitors the system’s performance to ensure it operates efficiently.
How will the installation affect our building?
Our installation process is designed to be minimally disruptive. We conduct a thorough site assessment and work closely with you to schedule installation at a convenient time. The system is installed without causing damage to your building.
Contract and Agreement
What is the typical duration of a PPA?
Our PPAs typically range from 15 to 25 years. The duration can be customized based on your preferences and needs.
What happens if we need to move or sell the property?
The PPA is transferrable to the new property owner. Alternatively, you can buy out the remaining value of the contract and own the system outright.
How do we know the system will perform as promised?
We use high-quality components and sophisticated monitoring systems to ensure optimal performance. We also provide performance guarantees and regular reporting to keep you informed.
Environmental Impact
How does this benefit the environment?
By switching to solar energy, you reduce your carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels. This helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions and supports a more sustainable future.
Can we market our participation in this program?
Absolutely! We encourage you to promote your commitment to sustainability. We can provide you with marketing materials and data to support your green initiatives.
Risk and Uncertainty
What if the solar PV system doesn’t produce as much energy as expected?
We conduct detailed assessments and use reliable technology to ensure accurate energy production forecasts. If the system underperforms, your costs are protected by the terms of the PPA.
How do we start the process?
Simply contact us to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll assess your energy needs, evaluate your rooftop’s suitability, and provide a customized proposal for your review.
End-of-Life
As the owner or tenant, do I have to dismantle and dispose of the system myself at the end of its service life?
At the end of the agreed contract term (usually 15 to 25 years), we take care of the professional dismantling and recycling of the photovoltaic system in accordance with local guidelines and laws, e.g., the EU WEEE Directive.
What happens to the photovoltaic system if I decide to extend the contract at the end of its term?
As the performance and efficiency of individual system components decreases with increasing service life, we will replace or renew them in the event of a contract extension or new PPA contract.