Nonprofit
Why Should Nonprofits, Schools, and Churches Consider Solar?
Nonprofits, including churches and schools, can now directly benefit from the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar energy systems thanks to provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).
Why Should Nonprofits, Schools, and Churches Consider Solar?
- Lower Operating Costs
Switching to solar significantly reduces monthly energy bills, freeing up funds for your mission, programs, or classrooms—without sacrificing comfort or reliability. - Access to Federal Incentives (Even Without Tax Liability)
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), nonprofits and tax-exempt entities can now receive Direct Pay from the IRS—essentially a cash reimbursement for up to 70% of the solar project cost through various tax credits and bonus incentives. - Energy Independence & Resilience
Solar paired with battery storage can help protect against power outages. This is especially important for community centers, places of worship, and schools that serve as emergency shelters or resiliency hubs.
- Environmental Leadership
Adopting clean energy shows your commitment to stewardship, sustainability, and future generations—values that resonate deeply with donors, students, parents, and congregations. - Educational & Community Engagement
For schools, solar provides hands-on learning opportunities in science, technology, and sustainability. For churches and nonprofits, it’s a chance to lead by example and inspire action within your community. - Predictable Long-Term Costs
With solar, you’re locking in decades of predictable energy costs and shielding your organization from rising utility rates.
Two Ways for Nonprofits to Go Solar
- Direct Pay (Elective Pay) – Own the System and Get Paid by the IRS
Best for: Organizations that want to own their solar system and maximize long-term savings.
- Thanks to IRA/OBBBA, nonprofits can receive the federal tax credit as a cash payment, even though they don’t pay taxes.
- Receive up to 70% of project costs back (30% base + up to 40% in bonuses)
- No third-party required — you control the system, the savings, and the energy.
- Eligible for battery systems too
Pros:
1) Long-term cost savings
2) IRS cash payment (no tax liability required)
3) Build equity in your energy system
4) Eligible for accelerated depreciation (if applicable under UBIT)
- Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) – Pay-as-You-Go Solar
Best for: Organizations that want no upfront cost and a simplified path to solar.
- A third-party investor pays for the system and installs it on your property.
- Your organization pays a fixed monthly rate for the solar energy produced — typically lower than your current utility bill.
- The third-party takes the tax credit and applies it to reduce your energy rate.
- Maintenance and system performance are handled for you.
Pros:
1) $0 upfront
2) Predictable monthly savings
3) No ownership responsibilities
4) Perfect for cash-strapped nonprofits
Which Option is Right for You?
Factor | Direct Pay | PPA |
Upfront Cost | Moderate | $0 |
Ownership | You | Third-party |
Savings | Greater over time | Immediate, lower overall |
Complexity | More paperwork, more control | Turnkey |
Ideal For | Organizations with capital or access to financing | Organizations prioritizing no upfront cost |
Act Before Deadlines:
- Begin construction by July 4, 2026, to be eligible
- Battery storage credits available through 2033
Why Work with Better Tomorrow Solar?
- Trusted by Industry Leaders:
- Georgia bright: Better Tomorrow Solar is an approved installer for Georgia Bright/Solar for all, offering Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for churches, schools, and nonprofit organizations.
- Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL): Better Tomorrow Solar is a trusted partner with GIPL.
- Proven Track Record: We served as the designated installer for the Georgia Bright Pilot Program launched in 2023, demonstrating our ability to deliver high-quality, impactful projects.
- Simplified Incentives & Financing: Our team works closely with your organization to identify and secure the most suitable financing options—whether through trusted lending partners or third-party PPAs—maximizing the benefits of available incentives.
- Experienced in Serving Schools & Faith-Based Institutions: Since 2019, we’ve proudly partnered with schools and churches, guiding them through a smooth and cost-effective solar transition.
At Better Tomorrow Solar, we understand nonprofit needs from energy budgets and grant dynamics to stakeholder expectations. We offer full-service project delivery, from feasibility studies to financing, installation, and ongoing support. Inspired by commercial-grade customization, we create solar installations that add functional value and align aesthetically with your property. Whether through PPAs, solar incentives for non-profit organizations, shared savings, or third-party non-profit solar financing, we tailor the structure to maximize your benefits.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Call Us Today
Don’t let high energy costs or limited capital prevent you from embracing solar. Better Tomorrow Solar can help your non-profit organization adopt solar energy and become more efficient for years to come. Call us or reach out online to schedule a consultation.