We are currently living through one of the best times in commercial solar deployment history. Between the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credits, and MACRS accelerated depreciation, it is possible to offset 90% of the cost to bring your business into the 21st century with a solar power system. Unfortunately, one of these incentives will be phased out very soon. But if you act quickly, it is still possible to take advantage of the savings.

By all accounts 2019 is set to be an exciting year for solar. With photovoltaic and storage prices continuing to drop, and renewables taking over more and more energy production, solar is looking strong for companies and communities alike.

If we can be sure of anything, it’s that brick-and-mortar stores are not going anywhere anytime soon. According to a recent Forrester report, 86% of retail sales in the US still happen in traditional physical stores. This is due in no small part to the fact that Millennials and Generation Z, who prefer in-person shopping at a greater than two-to-one rate, now possess the greatest buying power in our economy.

Christmas is nearly upon us, and in all of the year-end excitement, it can be easy to lose track of time! Are you still looking for the perfect gift for your outdoorsy or eco-minded family member or friend? We have you covered, and you won’t even have to wait for shipping!

In the nearly 20 years that I have been immersed in the world of sustainable energy, I have continued to see the cost of purchasing and maintaining a solar rig drop year after year. In fact, according to a recent Bloomberg report, PV system operations and maintenance costs have shrunk in half over the last four years alone.

It’s the time of year when we are all called upon to count our blessings and remember what we are thankful for, and we have plenty that fits the bill. We are grateful to be in an industry that is actively working to save the planet. We are grateful to be located in such a beautiful area and surrounded by a terrific community. But most of all, we are grateful for our customers, for giving us a reason to get up every morning and get people energized.