Is Solar Still a Good Investment in 2025? Here’s the ROI Breakdown By Ratan Singh - PremiumCAD – Your Go-To Experts for Solar Permit Design in the USA If you’ve been thinking about going solar this year, you’re not alone. With electricity rates climbing, tax credits still available, and more Americans than ever switching to solar, the big question is: “Is solar still  a smart investment in 2025?” Let us save you some time:Yes. It absolutely is.And we’ll show you why—with real numbers, simple language, and no hype. 1. Utility Bills Are Rising (Again) It’s not your imagination—electricity prices across the U.S. keep going up. In 2024, the average rate rose over 5%, and it’s expected to keep climbing. With solar, you: Lock in your electricity cost Pay way less (or nothing at all) Get protection from future hikes  A typical U.S. homeowner can save $1,200 to $2,500 per year after going solar.  2. The ROI of Solar in 2025 Is Still Strong Here’s a quick look at the average numbers: Property Type Avg. Solar Cost (After Tax Credit) Annual Savings Payback Period Lifetime Savings (25 yrs) Single-Family Home $12,000–$18,000 $1,500–$2,500 5–7 years $40,000–$60,000+ Small Business $25,000–$60,000 $4,000–$10,000 4–6 years $100,000–$200,000+  After your system pays itself off, every bit of energy is pure profit.  3. The 30% Federal Tax Credit Is Still Here Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, you can still claim 30% of your total solar system cost as a tax credit in 2025. Let’s say your system costs $21,000. That’s $6,300 off your tax bill.  On top of that, many states offer: Local rebates and SRECs Net metering (get paid for extra energy) Property tax exemptions Pro tip: States like California, New Jersey, and Illinois have some of the best solar programs.  4. Batteries Are Making Solar Even Better In 2025, battery storage (like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ) is more affordable, smarter, and essential. Why batteries rock: Keep your lights on during blackouts Store extra solar for nighttime use Reduce grid reliance  Batteries can increase your savings and give you real energy independence.  5. It’s Not Just About Money—It’s About Impact Every solar system installed helps reduce carbon emissions.That means: Less pollution  Cleaner air  A better future for all  And today, more customers, investors, and even employees prefer businesses that go green. Going solar isn’t just smart financially—it’s a statement of values.  Why Smart Installers Trust PremiumCAD Solar is a great investment—but only when it’s done right. That starts with a clean, compliant, permit-ready design. At PremiumCAD, we partner with solar contractors and EPCs across the U.S. to deliver: Fast turnaround AHJ-compliant permit sets Accurate electrical and structural drawings Residential & commercial support Whether you're scaling up or managing multiple installs, we help you move faster and pass inspection smoother. Final Verdict: Yes, Solar Is Still 100% Worth It With strong incentives, fast ROI, rising energy costs, and better technology than ever, 2025 is still one of the best years to go solar. If you're a homeowner—do it.If you're a business—definitely do it.If you're a solar contractor—let's work together and get your jobs approved faster with permit plans you can trust.

Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of energy that can help you save money on your electricity bill and reduce your carbon footprint. If you're considering going solar, you may be wondering if you need to hire a solar design company . The answer is yes, hiring a solar design company can offer a number of benefits, including: Expertise: Solar design companies have the expertise and experience to design a solar system that meets your specific needs and budget. They can also help you navigate the complex process of getting solar permits and financing. Peace of mind: Knowing that your solar system was designed by a professional can give you peace of mind. A solar design company will take care of all the details, so you can focus on enjoying your savings. Guarantees: Many solar design companies offer guarantees on their work. This means that you can be confident that your solar system will perform as expected. If you're still not sure if you need to hire a solar design company, here are a few things to consider: The size of your solar system: If you're only planning on installing a small solar system, you may be able to do it yourself. However, if you're planning on installing a large solar system, it's best to hire a professional. Your budget: Solar design services can be expensive, but they can save you money in the long run. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider getting quotes from multiple solar design companies. Your time: If you don't have the time or expertise to design your own solar system, hiring a professional is the best option. If you've decided to hire a solar design company, there are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing a company: Experience: Make sure the company has experience designing and installing solar systems in your area. Reputation: Check the company's reputation with the Better Business Bureau and other online resources. Licenses and insurance: Make sure the company is licensed and insured. Guarantees: Make sure the company offers guarantees on its work. By following these tips, you can choose a solar design company that will help you get the most out of your solar investment. Here are some additional benefits of hiring a solar design company: They can help you choose the right solar panels for your needs. There are many different types of solar panels available, and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. A solar design company can help you choose the right panels for your budget, energy needs, and climate. They can help you design a solar system that is compatible with your home's electrical system. If you have an older home, your electrical system may not be compatible with solar panels. A solar design company can help you design a system that will work with your existing electrical system. They can help you get the necessary permits and approvals. In some areas, you need to get permits and approvals before you can install solar panels. A solar design company can help you navigate the permitting process and make sure you have all the necessary approvals. They can help you finance your solar system. Solar panels can be expensive, but there are a number of financing options available. A solar design company can help you find the right financing option for your needs. If you're considering going solar, hiring a solar design company can offer a number of benefits. By working with a professional, you can be sure that your solar system will be designed and installed correctly. This will help you save money on your electricity bill and reduce your carbon footprint.

Introduction The rapid growth of solar energy adoption across the globe has led to an increased demand for efficient and streamlined photovoltaic (PV) design processes. Solar power has proven to be a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of energy, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. However, the complex nature of PV systems and the need for precise planning and design often create bottlenecks in the installation process. In this blog post, we will explore the key steps and strategies for streamlining the PV design process, from initial site assessment to final installation. Site Assessment and Data Collection The foundation of any successful PV project lies in a comprehensive site assessment. Gathering accurate data about the site's location, orientation, shading, and local climate conditions is crucial. Tools like satellite imagery, geographic information systems (GIS), and on-site surveys can aid in collecting the necessary information. Additionally, monitoring the energy consumption patterns of the facility can help determine the appropriate system size and configuration. Choosing the Right Components Selecting the right PV components is a critical step in streamlining the design process. This includes choosing solar panels, inverters, mounting systems, and other ancillary equipment. Consider factors such as efficiency, reliability, compatibility, and warranties. Many design software tools and online calculators can assist in optimizing component selection based on site-specific conditions. Design Software and Simulation Advanced design software can significantly reduce design time and improve accuracy. These tools allow designers to create 3D models of the installation site, assess shading effects, and simulate energy production under different conditions. Utilizing simulation software helps in optimizing panel placement and choosing the best tilt and orientation angles for maximum energy output. Compliance and Permitting Navigating the regulatory landscape is often a time-consuming aspect of PV design. Local building codes, zoning regulations, and permitting requirements can vary greatly by location. Staying informed about the latest regulations and working closely with local authorities can help streamline this part of the process. Some regions also offer expedited permitting for solar projects to encourage adoption. Financial Analysis Performing a thorough financial analysis is essential for ensuring the project's economic viability. This includes calculating the return on investment (ROI), payback period, and potential incentives or tax credits. Streamlining this process can be achieved by using financial modeling tools and working with financial experts who specialize in renewable energy projects. Project Management and Coordination Efficient project management is key to ensuring a smooth PV design process . Establish clear timelines, responsibilities, and milestones to keep the project on track. Effective communication among team members, including installers, engineers, and electricians, is crucial to avoid delays and ensure all tasks are completed on schedule. Quality Assurance and Testing Before commissioning the PV system, it's essential to conduct rigorous quality assurance checks and testing. Ensure that all components are correctly installed and that the system is functioning as expected. This step helps prevent costly rework and ensures the system meets performance expectations. Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance Even after installation, the PV system's performance should be continuously monitored. Implementing remote monitoring systems allows for real-time data collection and analysis, enabling proactive maintenance and troubleshooting. Regular maintenance checks and cleaning of panels are essential to maximize system efficiency over its lifetime. Conclusion Streamlining the PV design process is crucial for the widespread adoption of solar energy. By focusing on site assessment, component selection, design software, compliance, financial analysis, project management, quality assurance, and ongoing monitoring, PV designers and installers can create more efficient and cost-effective solar energy solutions. As technology continues to advance and regulatory environments evolve, staying up-to-date with the latest trends and tools will be key to further streamlining the PV design process and promoting sustainable energy solutions.

In the last few years, something big has been happening in the world of clean energy. More and more commercial buildings —from shopping malls to warehouses, offices to factories—are turning to solar energy . But why now? What’s changed? At PremiumCAD , we work closely with solar contractors and engineers across the U.S. to design and prepare permit-ready solar plans . So, we see the trend up close. And in this blog, we’ll break down why solar is booming for commercial buildings—and why it’s happening faster than ever .  1. Huge Energy Bills = Huge Savings Commercial buildings use a lot of power—especially if they run lights, HVAC, computers, and equipment all day. That means their electricity bills are massive . Installing solar helps these businesses: Lower their monthly energy bills Lock in electricity rates for 20+ years Avoid rising utility prices Real talk:  One medium-sized commercial building can save $30,000–$100,000+ over 25 years  with solar.  2. Government Incentives Are Better Than Ever In 2025, the U.S. federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)  still allows commercial property owners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs . Plus, many states and cities offer: Cash rebates Accelerated depreciation (MACRS) Performance-based incentives  These programs are saving companies tens of thousands  right from day one.  3. Going Green = Good Business Today’s customers and partners care about sustainability. When a business goes solar, it shows that: They care about the environment  They’re reducing their carbon footprint They’re future-ready Big brands like Amazon, Google, and Walmart are already running on solar—and smaller businesses are following fast .  4. Unused Rooftops = Free Real Estate Most commercial buildings have flat, open rooftops —perfect for installing solar panels. Instead of letting that space go to waste, businesses are: Turning roofs into money-saving assets Staying within zoning and fire safety rules Boosting property value At PremiumCAD , we help design code-compliant and permit-ready  solar layouts, so every inch of that rooftop works efficiently and safely. 5. Solar Tech Has Improved (and Dropped in Price!) In 2025: Solar panels are more efficient than ever Inverters are smarter and safer Costs have dropped by more than 70%  in the last decade That means even small to mid-sized businesses  can now afford to go solar and get a fast return on investment.  Why Permit Design Matters Going solar isn’t just about placing panels. You need the right design  that: Meets local codes and fire department rules Passes inspection quickly Works with your roof structure and electrical system That’s where we come in. At PremiumCAD , we specialize in solar permit design  for commercial and residential projects. We work with solar installers and contractors across the U.S., creating detailed, accurate, and fast permit drawings that help projects move ahead without delays.   Commercial buildings are switching to solar faster than ever—and it’s no surprise why: The savings are real The incentives are strong  The technology is better  And the planet needs it  If you’re a solar installer or EPC looking to handle more commercial projects in 2025, let’s work together. PremiumCAD  is here to make your permitting process smooth, fast, and reliable. Need permit designs for your next solar project? Contact us today and let’s power up together.

Choosing the best service provider is essential for getting quality and value for your money . Whether you're looking for a service provider for home improvement, professional services, or any other type of service, here are some tips to help you make an informed decision: Define Your Needs: Clearly outline your specific needs and expectations before you start searching for a service provider . Understanding what you require will make it easier to narrow down your options and find a provider who can meet your requirements. Research: Conduct thorough research to identify potential service providers . You can use online resources, ask for recommendations from friends and family, or consult industry-specific directories. Read reviews and check their website and social media profiles to learn more about their services and reputation. Check Credentials and Qualifications: Verify the credentials and qualifications of the service provider . Ensure they are licensed, certified, and have the necessary permits to operate in your area. Check if they belong to any professional associations or have received relevant training and certifications. Experience Matters: Experience is often a crucial factor in determining the quality of service . Look for providers with a proven track record and a history of successful projects or satisfied clients. Ask for references and contact past clients if possible, to get feedback. Compare Multiple Quotes: Don't settle for the first service provider you come across. Request quotes and estimates from multiple providers to compare prices, services, and terms . Be wary of providers with significantly lower prices, as this could be an indicator of subpar quality. Communication Skills: Good communication is essential for a successful working relationship . Evaluate the service provider's communication skills during initial interactions. Are they responsive, clear in their communication, and willing to answer your questions? Insurance and Liability: Ensure the service provider has adequate insurance coverage , including liability insurance. This protects you in case of accidents or damages that may occur during the service. Request proof of insurance before hiring. Contracts and Agreements: Always have a written contract or agreement in place before starting any work . This document should outline the scope of work, timelines, costs, payment terms, and any other relevant terms and conditions. Review it carefully and make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing. Warranty and Guarantees: Inquire about any warranties or guarantees offered by the service provider . A warranty can provide you with peace of mind in case any issues arise after the service is completed. Trust Your Instincts: Trust your gut feeling when evaluating a service provider . If something doesn't feel right or if you have doubts about their professionalism or reliability, it's best to explore other options. Reputation: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients . A strong, positive reputation is a good indicator of a reliable service provider. Conversely, if there are numerous negative reviews, it may be a red flag. Transparency: Choose a service provider who is transparent about their pricing, processes, and any potential challenges or delays . Transparency helps build trust and ensures there are no surprises down the road. Remember that choosing the right service provider may take some time and effort, but it's worth it to ensure you receive the best possible service and value for your investment. PremiumCAD is already the most preferred partner to several Solar installer and EPCs . Let us work on your next project and feel the difference.

AI in Solar Design Services Absolutely, artificial intelligence (AI) can play a crucial role in solar design services, offering various benefits in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and optimization. Here are some ways AI can be applied in the field of solar design : Site Assessment and Solar Potential Analysis: AI algorithms can analyze satellite imagery and geographical data to assess potential solar sites. This includes factors such as sunlight exposure, shading analysis, and topographical considerations. Energy Yield Prediction: Machine learning models can predict the energy yield of a solar installation based on historical weather data, local climate conditions, and the specific characteristics of the solar panels and other components. Optimal System Design: AI can optimize the design of solar systems by considering various parameters such as panel orientation, tilt, and spacing. This ensures that the system operates at maximum efficiency and produces the highest possible energy output. Cost Estimation and Financial Modeling: AI algorithms can assist in estimating the costs associated with solar projects, taking into account factors like equipment costs, installation expenses, and maintenance. This aids in accurate financial modeling and helps stakeholders make informed decisions. Automated Design Generation: AI can generate multiple design options for a given solar project, considering different configurations and parameters. This not only saves time but also allows for the exploration of diverse design possibilities. Predictive Maintenance: AI-driven predictive maintenance models can monitor the health of solar equipment in real-time, detecting potential issues before they cause a system failure. This proactive approach improves the reliability and lifespan of solar installations. Energy Consumption Pattern Analysis: AI can analyze historical energy consumption patterns to help design solar solutions tailored to the specific needs of a customer. This ensures that the solar system meets the energy demands efficiently. Remote Monitoring and Control: AI-powered monitoring systems enable remote tracking of solar installations. Anomalies or inefficiencies can be detected in real-time, allowing for prompt intervention and optimization. Smart Grid Integration: AI facilitates the integration of solar systems with smart grids, enabling better management of energy flow, demand-response optimization, and grid stability. Regulatory Compliance and Permitting: AI can assist in navigating complex regulatory requirements and streamlining the permitting process for solar projects, ensuring compliance with local regulations. By leveraging artificial intelligence in solar design services , stakeholders can enhance the overall efficiency, sustainability, and economic viability of solar energy projects. Ratan Singh - Director

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have revolutionized the way we harness renewable energy from the sun. Behind every successful solar project lies an essential component: meticulous design. Solar PV design services play a crucial role in optimizing system performance, ensuring maximum energy generation, and streamlining the installation process. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of solar PV design services and how they contribute to the widespread adoption of solar energy. Harnessing Solar Potential: Solar PV design services help individuals and businesses unlock the full potential of solar energy. By leveraging advanced technologies, sophisticated software, and expert knowledge, these services assess the solar resource available at a specific location. They analyze factors such as solar irradiation, shading, and orientation to determine the optimal positioning and sizing of solar panels. By considering local climate patterns and energy consumption patterns, solar PV design services can recommend the most efficient and cost-effective system designs. Maximizing Energy Generation: Efficiency is a key consideration in solar PV system design. Solar PV design services carefully select the appropriate solar panels, inverters, and other system components to maximize energy generation. They consider factors such as panel efficiency, temperature coefficients, and shading mitigation techniques to minimize losses and maximize the overall system output. Through detailed analysis and simulations, these services can accurately predict the energy production of a system, helping users make informed decisions about the capacity and potential savings of their solar installations. Customized Solutions: Every solar PV project is unique, and solar PV design services cater to these individual needs. Whether it's a residential rooftop installation or a large-scale commercial project, these services tailor the system design to match specific requirements. They consider factors like available space, structural limitations, energy consumption patterns, and financial goals to create customized solutions. By collaborating closely with clients, solar PV design services ensure that the final design aligns with their objectives while maximizing the return on investment. Integration and Optimization: Solar PV design services work in close collaboration with other stakeholders, including installers, engineers, and architects. They integrate the solar system design seamlessly into the overall project plan, considering various constraints and requirements. By coordinating with these stakeholders, solar PV design services ensure that the solar PV system integrates harmoniously with existing structures and electrical systems. They also optimize the system layout to minimize installation costs and improve overall aesthetics. Ensuring Long-Term Performance: Solar PV design services take a long-term perspective when designing systems. They consider factors such as maintenance requirements, equipment warranties, and system monitoring capabilities to ensure reliable and sustainable performance over the system's lifespan. By implementing design strategies that promote ease of maintenance and system monitoring, these services empower solar owners to monitor their energy production, identify potential issues, and optimize system performance over time. Conclusion: Solar PV design services play a pivotal role in harnessing the power of the sun and driving the adoption of solar energy. By providing expert analysis, customized solutions, and seamless integration, these services optimize system performance, maximize energy generation, and ensure long-term reliability. As the demand for clean energy continues to grow, solar PV design services will remain instrumental in creating efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable solar installations. By leveraging their expertise, we can unleash the full potential of solar power and pave the way to a greener future.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are a powerful way to harness renewable energy from the sun. However, designing an efficient and effective solar PV system can be a complex task. This is where solar PV design services come in. By leveraging their expertise and knowledge, these services simplify the process, ensuring optimal system performance and maximum energy generation. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to help you understand the fundamentals of solar PV design services and how to get started with your solar journey. Understanding Your Energy Needs: The first step in engaging solar PV design services is to assess your energy needs. Determine your average electricity consumption, peak load requirements, and any specific energy goals you have in mind. This information will help the solar design service understand your unique requirements and tailor the system accordingly. Be prepared to share details about your location, available roof or ground space, and any shading concerns that might affect solar panel placement. By having a clear understanding of your energy needs, you can collaborate effectively with the design service to create a customized solar PV system. Selecting a Reliable Solar PV Design Service: Choosing the right solar PV design service is crucial for a successful solar installation. Look for a reputable service provider with a track record of delivering high-quality designs and reliable customer service. Check for certifications, such as NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners), which demonstrates their expertise in solar PV design . Read reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction and reliability. A reliable design service will have experienced professionals who stay up to date with the latest industry standards, regulations, and design best practices. Collaborating with the Design Service: Once you have selected a solar PV design service, it's time to start collaborating with their team. They will gather detailed information about your site, including roof or ground measurements, orientation, and shading analysis. They may also ask for your utility bills to assess your energy consumption patterns. Be prepared to provide any necessary documentation or permits required by your local authorities. The design service will use this information to create a customized system design that maximizes energy generation while adhering to local regulations and best practices. Reviewing the System Design: Once the design service completes the initial system design, they will present it to you for review. Take the time to carefully evaluate the design and ask any questions you may have. Consider factors such as the number and type of solar panels, inverter selection, wiring layout, and system capacity. Ensure that the design aligns with your energy goals, budget, and aesthetic preferences. If any modifications or adjustments are needed, communicate them clearly to the design service for further refinement. Permitting and Documentation: Solar PV installations require permits and documentation to ensure compliance with local regulations. The design service will assist you in preparing the necessary paperwork, including building permits, interconnection agreements, and incentive applications. They will provide detailed system specifications, engineering diagrams, and any other documentation required by your local authorities. By working closely with the design service, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free permitting process. Installation and Beyond: Once the design and permitting phase is complete, you can proceed with the installation of your solar PV system. The design service can provide recommendations for reputable installation contractors or work in collaboration with your chosen installer. Throughout the installation process, the design service may offer support and guidance to ensure that the system is installed according to the design specifications. After the installation, the design service may also provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance services to ensure optimal system performance. Conclusion: Solar PV design services are an essential component of a successful solar journey. By collaborating with these professionals, you can ensure a well-designed, efficient, and customized solar PV system that meets your energy needs and aligns with your goals. Take the time to select a reliable design service, communicate your requirements effectively, and review the system design carefully. With the guidance of a trusted solar PV design service, you can embark on a clean energy journey and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Access to Specialists Not everyone plans to be completely self-reliant. Interdependence and Specialization are the key to all trade and commerce of the modern day. By outsourcing particular tasks, companies are often able to substantially improve performance by having access to the niche skills of experts in certain fields. Faster Results One of the top reasons small businesses tend to outsource work is because it will get done quicker. Even for large corporate, the internal processes are often too elaborate and rigid to change with the changing requirement of the world. Outsourcing helps you to get results immediately and the flexibility to integrate with your systems allows you to utilize your outsourcing partner like an overseas business subsidiary. Focus on Core Areas Another benefit of outsourcing tasks is enhanced freedom. By passing on supporting processes, you’ll be able to concentrate your skills on strengthening and improving the core processes that help make your business tick. Risk Management Don’t put all the eggs in one basket! One of the most important advantages of outsourcing is that it allows you an additional arm. You can make an internal risk assessment and analysis. By outsourcing certain campaigns or processes on to experts in their respective fields, you will benefit from their enhanced ability to plan and mitigate potential risks. Cost Effective For achieving economies of scale, it is important to have a large scale. It may not be feasible for you to use the most efficient technology, tools or teams for a small-scale support function. However, there is an outsourcer, who is working exclusively on the same function for several entities and has the best possible scale of operation. As one might imagine, outsourcing piecemeal work is almost always going to be cheaper than hiring permanent full-time staff. Not only will you save time and money on recruitment, but your profit will also be extended than s to shorter overheads. Work 24Hrs a day One major benefit of outsourcing digital work overseas is the substantial differences you might encounter in terms of time zones and holidays. Although this can pose an initial hurdle logistically, once overcome it can effectively mean your business is running even while you’re fast asleep. Easy Project Management Modern day outsourcing partners are not at all difficult to manage. Most of them have dedicated account managers for you and SPOCs committed to you. further, project management tools are now available for throw-away prices and reporting can be seamlessly managed by technology. Most of the operational reporting can be automated, freeing up your time for more important work. Growth Trajectory Quite a few small business teams are tight-knit groups of friends and family — which is fantastic. But when you’re incredibly close to your staff members, it can also lead to issues when work isn’t being done up to par. By outsourcing work, you’ll typically be able to minimize work relationships to simple, contractual arrangements. Shortens the Learning Curve With outsourcing, you can have access to the technology, costs, intelligence and expertise which is available to the leader in your industry. What took years for the leader to learn and develop, becomes available to you for an extremely low cost and limited fixed commitments. This gives your business the opportunity to compete against the leader with the advantage to you as you are faster on decision making and have the personal touch. You Get Peace of Mind At the end of the day, choosing to outsource with a reliable individual or agency should give you peace of mind that tasks are being handled expertly and efficiently without you having to worry or lift a finger. What could be better? ( Solar Design India )

According to SEIA, In 2010, solar energy accounted for just 4% of new U.S. capacity additions; by Q3 of 2019, that figure had risen to 39%. And there is every reason to believe the new decade will be just as big for the industry. The Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA) expects “radical change and exponential growth”— including doubling of the number of solar jobs in the U.S. by 2030. It is evident that solar power is not only the most sustainable and environment friendly mode of power generation but also the fastest employment generation sector in the world. The backbone of this solar industry are the installers. Unfortunately, during this pandemic and lock down, the worst effected lot are also these installers who have carried the heaviest weight on their backs. With lowest rate of sales in this quarter, most solar companies are looking to optimize costs, leading to large scale retrenchments and downsizing. With this trend continuing, it is imperative that the Federal Government must step in. In this testing time, industry demands a special package from the government. While the wish-list is large, some immediate actions can be helpful in the short run. Wage Support: Governments across the world have liberally opened up their wallets to offer wage support to companies who can’t get their workforce to work. Leading example is that of the government of Singapore which has offered upto 75% of wage support for 9 months. The impact of such a step in the US will obviously be gigantic, therefore the support can be extended to companies having upto 50 people and directly linked with the percentage of wages to the turnover. Relaxation in Loan Repayments: With revenue at multi-year low, it is not feasible for companies to pay the debt obligation. Debt which was incurred for higher capacities and expansion, is right now draining the lifeblood out of small companies. Government was prompt is issuing liquidity in the financial sector during the 2008 crisis and also during the current pandemic. It is not just important to pump in the liquidity, but also direct the flow of liquidity to sectors where it is most needed. A special package for solar companies to infuse liquidity and defer repayment obligations will help the leveraged players to survive. Relaxation of Labour Laws: The industry seeks relaxation in the wage rate and hours of work requirements to all companies who undertake to retain all its employees. With lower hourly rate and liberal policies, more and more employees can be retained. Extension of Tax-Breaks and subsidy: The tax rebate offered to home owners for installation of PV panels is requested to be extended by 1 year. This extension will act as the key catalyst for generation of demand and re-vitalise the sector. Compulsory shift to solar: The government must declare aggressive targets for compulsory conversion to solar power. We seek that at least 10% solar power goal must be set by the end of this year and steps should be put in place for realization of this target. Thrust should also be to see a shift from capital intensive sectors to labor intensive sectors. Therefore, thermal power should make way for solar.

Today, I was watching this movie called ‘Gladiator’. The movie is about this great general named Maximus who gives Rome, his motherland, the freedom from the rule of the emperors. Well that is not the point. Apart from many parts of the movie that are touching, there is this one particular dialogue by a servant of Maximus, ” sometimes I find time to do what I want to do, and rest of the times I do what I have to do”. This particular dialogue got me started. I thought that this is so true and almost started to pity my own-self, thinking that why is it that we hardly spare time for things that we care about and really want to do. This is the time when the entire world has come to a stand-still and all of us have been blessed with the time to work on issues which have been like ever eluding goals. • Fix that Office travel policy. • Work on the corporate governance framework, • Update the lead-management system, • Close the pending entries on your work-flow management system, • Install your internal communication tool. Therefore, this is the time to get in action and think about the wish-list you had for your business. Take control and ownership of the functions which have always been a challenge for you. You should be calling the shots; it’s your business after all! ( Premium CAD )

1. Stay put on cash, do not invest in mergers and avoidable marketing spends Even though some might argue that it is a buyers’ market. But take a step back and think. Is it? There are a few sectors which are witnessing an increase in their subscriber base. But Renewable Energy is certainly not one of them. Therefore, what is cheap today, might get cheaper tomorrow. Furthermore, do not add to any new elements of recurring costs associated with an aggressive takeover / acquisition. Review the market situation and your own liquidity position before getting tempted by the proposition of taking down a business rival. Further, this is not the best time for marketing. Try to sell your media space and curtail all expenses pertaining to development of new (expensive) content. Another way of creatively utilizing this period is to have your marketing team work on trainings and internal hygiene. 2. Invest in employee morale and motivation Remember your strengths that brought you success during normal business cycles. Your employees are your key assets. A motivated lot will help you recover faster when the business recovers to normal. Committed employees will work at the peak of their efficiencies for extra hours when this lock-down ends. They will generate leads, convert leads to orders and orders to sales at a rate that was never seen before. Therefore, salaries and trainings given to employees during this period are likely to generate great returns for the future. 3. Engage with your clients – it costs nothing With slowdown in new demand and difficulty in conversion of leads to sales, it is always a great opportunity to look at existing customers. Reach out to them for feedback, up-sells, referrals. You will be surprised to see the results. 4. Diversify – look for alternative vendors especially overseas vendors Are you still stuck in your hometown / state / country? It is time to look for vendors across the globe. Look around at companies and countries that have done well to beat the Corona crisis. Explore vendor tie-ups in the emerging countries and they will provide you with the critical business continuity even as some functions become non-operative in your area of work. There is always a neighboring state where business has not come to a standstill. This is the time to explore the un-chartered territory and leverage your global network for delivering the fresh demand. 5. Explore outsourcing partners and strengthen your BCP Did your outsourcing partner let you down? Most companies have experienced a drop in the service levels and violation of SLAs by their partners. Lack of a BCP or a strong infrastructure has exposed some of the vendors and left you wondering where you went wrong. Do not worry. Just look for partners having stronger BCP. Sounds tough! Then create an alternate vendor partner who will give you a natural back-up in tough times. 6. Reduce fixed recurring costs even at the cost of margins There are a lot of bargains in the market which contractually bind you for longer period of subscriptions in return of a discount. It is time to review. Go for a higher variable cost per unit rather than a minimum commitment of expense. Get rid of your minimum guarantees on travel bookings, hotel rooms, fleet operators, designing partners etc. and look for vendors who are happy to work with zero fixed commitments. 7. Initiate cost reduction talks with suppliers A supplier who does not understand the need of the hour is clearly a bad supplier. Engage with your partners and suppliers to explore possibilities of cost reduction. Have them share their cost-sheets with you and review their margins. Try and renegotiate the operating expenses and absorbed costs for as long as the lockdown continues. This will give you valuable savings for lasting the extra mile. 8. Renegotiate contracts and revise force-majeure definitions Force-majeure (FM) is a critical clause forming part of all contracts and agreements. If you are already beyond the stage where you can make regular payments, then this is not for you. However, those who are planning proactively to avoid cash crunch, they must quickly reach out to their vendors for revision of conditions where FM shall apply. Further, try and ensure that FM invocation should not have the effect of terminating your contracts. You still want to do business. Therefore, redraft your contracts and service agreements to give you that extra leverage of delaying payment / affording differed payments, non-payment of minimum guarantee amounts, rental payments etc. 9. Plan for the worst case. Even though we all hope for a better tomorrow, it is most prudent to plan for the worst. Have your CFO build alternative scenarios and project business continuity in each of the cases. You should have ready plans and scenarios for business continuity of at-least six months without any cash flow visibility. You will be surprised to see how a disciplined and prepared finance organization can emerge victorious against the most operationally effective firm during these critical times. 10. Have another look at your Balance Sheet for Cash Flows You might actually be surprised how your balance sheet is sitting on a pile of cash. All that is needed is to get creative. There are several aged debtors who have been waiting for a discount / settlement offer. Un-reconciled accounts leading to payment delays / disputes require just the extra push. Long term investments must be liquidated or kept handy for borrowing overdrafts. Then there is always a long unsold inventory, take a decision to scrap it or realise discounted prices. This is the time to go back to the basic lessons in the Finance Classes where you were taught the importance of cash-flow over profitability. It is actually a good time to take the brave decision of offering discounts, writing off unrecoverable balances, scrapping inventories & idle assets. The exceptional one-time losses will not irk the investors, auditors and revenue department during this crisis. All you need to remember is what does not kill you will make you stronger! ( Premium CAD )