In 2015, Neil Kelly installed 400 solar panels on the rooftop of a Best Western hotel in North Portland, making it among the first “solar” hotels in the area. However, the benefits of the project reach far beyond pride and recognition. The environmental impact of this commercial solar energy system includes avoiding more than 100,000 pounds of carbon emissions annually, which is the equivalent of removing 15 passenger vehicles from the road or planting 1,500 trees every year.
Cutting Energy Costs With Commercial Solar
“We looked into solar for many reasons,” said Albert Lee, manager of Best Western Inn at the Meadows. “One of the main reasons was to save costs on our utility bills. With the current energy incentives and tax benefits installing solar panels is a cost-effective choice. We also liked that we were helping the environment.”
Best Western Inn at the Meadows has a reputation for being one of the best values in Portland accommodation. The property offers 146 guest rooms, more than 1,100 square feet of meeting space, and a range of amenities. Ranked among TripAdvisor’s Green Leaders and awarded their Badge of Excellence for 2014, the hotel strives to provide guests with an outstanding hospitality experience at a great price.
Neil Kelly designed the 100-kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) system, which serves 30 percent of the hotel’s electrical load, captures $72,500 in cash rebates, and provides the basis for federal investment and depreciation tax credits of more than $212,000. The system is built using locally manufactured SolarWorld photovoltaic modules, which carry a 25-year production warranty.
Solar Tax Incentives in Oregon and Washington
“Small and large business owners alike wonder if they can receive a return on investment by installing a solar energy system—it can be confusing,” states Jason Benfit, General Manager of Neil Kelly Solar. “We like to eliminate the guesswork for our clients with a detailed site audit and financial analysis. With the incentives through Energy Trust of Oregon and tax rebates, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of this clean energy source.”
Businesses in Oregon and Washington can access government incentives, solar tax credits, and grants, which can substantially offset the cost of installation. Additionally, every solar installation by Neil Kelly’s trusted solar energy consultants comes backed by our industry-leading 10-year warranty, further increasing the reliability of commercial solar systems for years to come.
Leading the Way for Renewable Energy in the Hospitality Market
Neil Kelly Project Manager Jason Jepsen adds, “My hat is off to the entire Lee Family and Best Western for taking the energy efficiency lead in the hospitality market. Their example of deep-energy retrofits inspires others to benefit their business, community, and planet with cost-effective energy upgrades.”
The project was featured in the Portland Business Journal and the Portland Tribune shortly before its completion in July 2015. The socially responsible North Portland hotel plans to add a lobby kiosk to educate guests about the hotel’s energy and sustainability efforts.
Is Solar Energy Right for Your Business?
For businesses with ample roof space for solar panels and high energy bills like Best Western Inn at the Meadows, choosing a commercial solar service is a no-brainer. Many commercial properties like office buildings, warehouses, or factories have large, flat roofs that are ideal for solar panels.
For those with older or sun-obstructed roofs, alternatives like roof repair, parking lot panels, or ground-mounted solar arrays are available, and your Neil Kelly solar consultant will guide you through your options as part of your comprehensive site audit.
Rely on Neil Kelly for Your Solar Energy Installation
It’s easy to make your home or business “run on sun.” Neil Kelly’s seasoned solar energy professionals have the resources and expertise to tailor a system to the unique requirements of your home or business. We’ll help evaluate the solar energy system potential of your building or space, plus, we can help you access tax credits and incentives that can offset the cost of installing the system in many areas.
Learn more about solar power installation with Neil Kelly and schedule your complimentary consultation today.
