by Shane Henson — March 11, 2013—Businesses and nonprofits are now able to learn about, select and obtain competitive bids for solar and other clean energy technologies through a new program created by EnergySage, an online marketplace for solar photovoltaic (PV) and other clean energy systems, and the Massachusetts Sierra Club.
The EnergySage program, which is accessed through a Sierra Club portal, provides objective, comprehensive information on the operations and benefits of clean energy systems, says Sierra Club. In addition, the EnergySage Marketplace provides an online comparison-shopping process that secures competitive quotes from pre-screened installers. EnergySage facilitates the choice of system, installer and financing option and accelerates the procurement process.
For properties lacking suitable structures for a solar installation, EnergySage provides the ability to evaluate and shop for a range of clean energy and high-efficiency technologies such as solar hot water, small wind turbines and ground source heat pumps for space heating and cooling.
The program focuses on businesses, municipalities, religious institutions and other not-for-profit organizations, although homeowners also have access to the same tools and information.
EnergySage says the benefits of solar PV systems include lower, more predictable energy costs that may generate annual investment returns exceeding 20 percent. New and flexible financing options for acquisition, including leasing, power-purchase agreements and loans, can create immediate cost savings with little or no expenditure by the property-owner, the company adds. Indirect benefits of these systems include positive impacts on employee morale, customer satisfaction, and enhanced community perceptions of the company.
