Community solar offers a state-incentivized renewable energy solution that empowers organizations to reduce costs while also making a meaningful difference. 

Business Energy Efficiency Options

Analysts project that electricity rates will rise by around 5.1% in 2026 and 2.4% in 2027. With continued increases on the horizon, budget managers are concerned, and rightly so. While power market swings are out of our control, there are several actionable ways to reduce energy expenses including:

• Efficiency upgrades: Upgrading to LED lightbulbs, smart thermostats, and HVAC systems can help reduce monthly energy costs.

• Operational changes: Shifting energy-intensive tasks to off-peak hours and turning off unused lights and equipment can lower overall energy use.

• Onsite solar: Installing rooftop solar can deliver long-term savings, though it requires upfront capital.

But if you don’t own an office space, a suitable roof, or if it isn’t financially feasible, it can feel like solar just isn't an option. Fortunately, that's not the case. Community solar offers another path.

• Community solar: anyone can enroll for free to receive discounted solar energy from a local solar farm. No rooftop installation, long-term commitment, or money down is required!

For small businesses, this means accessible solar energy without upfront costs. And it's not just for businesses. Many religious organizations are also finding value in community solar programs.

Community Solar for Faith-Based Organizations

Faith communities often lead environmental stewardship initiatives, and rooftop solar is a common consideration. However, it can be cost-prohibitive or unfeasible for rented space. Community solar is often overlooked, which means these organizations may be missing out on potential savings.

The benefits of community solar include:

• Lower operating costs. With monthly discounts of 5 to 15%, electricity savings can free up funds for missions, programs, building maintenance, and community services.

• Creation care without upfront costs. Without installing panels, you can support local renewables and advance your creation care ministries without managing a project or taking on debt. 

• Simple savings. The savings you receive are applied to your utility bill each month and vary by state and utility company. You remain a customer of your utility company and continue receiving your bill as usual—just with a portion of your energy at a discount.
  
  

Among our 55,000+ customers, Nautilus Solar services a variety of businesses. These include restaurants, churches, retreat centers, coffee shops, farms, convenience stores, clothing stores, campgrounds, and more.

Bottom line: No matter who you are or what your organization does, you can join a community solar program and receive a 5-15% discount on clean, renewable energy.

The Community Impact

Beyond savings, community solar brings benefits beyond your electric bill. It can help the wider community too.

• Solar farms provide farmers with a steady source of income, helping keep family farms in the family. In 2025, Nautilus paid landowners $6.1 million in lease payments!

• Local service providers and contractors benefit from ongoing opportunities to support and maintain solar farms, boosting jobs and the local economy.

• Tax revenues generated by Nautilus Solar sites contribute to funding vital public services. In 2025, Nautilus Solar contributed over $5.4 million in state taxes.

Bottom line

Community solar is solar for businesses and churches that want to save on electricity costs and support renewable energy. If rooftop solar feels out of reach for your organization, community solar is an easier, more accessible place to start…and the good news is you can get started today!