Solar for small business Logan

Hello there, I’m Gigi. One of the biggest pain points I hear from fellow small business owners is the relentless pressure of rising operational costs, and electricity bills are often right at the top of that list. That’s why I’ve been looking into the practicalities of switching to solar, especially for businesses in sunny spots like Logan.

Going solar isn’t just about saving money; it’s about gaining control over a volatile expense and showing your customers you’re a forward-thinking, sustainable business. Let’s walk through what it really takes to make the switch.

Why solar for your small business in Logan makes sense

For any business, an investment has to stack up on the balance sheet. Here in Queensland, the case for commercial solar is particularly strong. Our abundant sunshine means solar panels can be incredibly productive, directly offsetting your daytime energy consumption when most businesses are at their busiest.

The core benefits really boil down to a few key things:

• Reduced electricity costs: By generating your own free power from the sun, you drastically reduce the amount of energy you need to buy from the grid. This gives you more budget certainty and can significantly improve your bottom line.
• Protection from price hikes: When you rely on the grid, you’re exposed to unpredictable price increases. A solar system locks in your energy costs for the life of the system, which can be 25 years or more.
• Stronger green credentials: Customers are increasingly choosing to support businesses that demonstrate environmental responsibility. Installing solar is a powerful, visible statement about your commitment to sustainability.

Finding the right commercial solar installers in Logan

This is probably the most critical step. The quality of your installer determines the quality and safety of your system for decades to come.

My number one piece of advice: ensure your installer is accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA). This is the new, rigorous standard for the industry, and it’s your assurance that the team designing and installing your system is qualified and up-to-date with the latest Australian standards.

When you’re vetting installers, don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions:

• Are you SAA-accredited? Ask for their accreditation details.
• Can you provide references or show me other commercial projects you’ve completed in the Logan area?
• What solar panel and inverter brands do you recommend and why? A good installer will explain the trade-offs between cost and quality.
• What warranties are included on the components and your workmanship?
• How do you handle the grid connection application with Energex? An experienced installer will manage this process seamlessly.

I always recommend getting at least three detailed quotes from different SAA-accredited installers to compare their proposed systems, equipment, and pricing.

Are there Queensland government solar rebates for small business?

This is a common question, and the answer is yes, but it might not be what you think of as a traditional rebate. The main financial incentive for small businesses comes from the federal government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).

Here’s how it works in simple terms:

• When you install an eligible solar system (up to 100kW), you create Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs).
• The number of STCs depends on your system’s size and its location in Australia.
• Your solar installer will almost always handle the process of selling these certificates on your behalf and apply the value as an upfront discount on your invoice.

This “rebate” can reduce the initial cost of your system by thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars. It’s a significant incentive that makes the payback period much shorter.

Additionally, a new federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program began in July 2025, which also provides incentives for small businesses installing a solar battery. This is perfect if you want to store your solar energy for use after the sun goes down.

How can I finance a commercial solar system in Logan?

Not every business has the capital to purchase a system outright. The good news is there are several financing pathways designed specifically for commercial solar, allowing you to get the benefits without the large upfront expense.

• Gigi’s pro tip: Chat with your accountant before deciding on a finance path. They can advise on the best option for your cash flow and tax situation.

Here are the most common options:

• Outright purchase: Paying cash delivers the fastest return on investment because you have no ongoing finance costs.
• Chattel mortgage or business loan: This is a popular option where a lender provides the funds to purchase the solar system. Your business owns the asset from day one, allowing you to claim depreciation and other tax benefits.
• Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): With a PPA, a solar provider installs, owns, and maintains the solar system on your roof at no upfront cost to you. You then agree to buy the electricity it generates at a fixed rate that is typically lower than your current energy tariff. This gives you immediate savings without the capital outlay.
• Solar lease: This is similar to a PPA, but instead of paying for the energy, you pay a fixed monthly fee to rent the system. All the power it produces is yours to use.

What’s the average cost of a small business solar system in Logan?

The cost of a commercial solar system depends heavily on its size (measured in kilowatts, or kW) and the quality of the components used. Larger systems generally have a lower cost per watt.

Here’s a rough guide to pre-incentive pricing in 2025 to give you a ballpark idea:

• 10kW system: Suitable for small cafes or offices, might cost around $12,000 – $15,000.
• 30kW system: A good fit for a larger retail space or small warehouse, could be in the range of $35,000 – $45,000.
• 50kW system: For light manufacturing or a medium-sized commercial building, you might expect to invest between $55,000 and $70,000.

Cost reality check: These are just estimates. Your final price will be affected by your roof type (tin is easiest, concrete tilt-frames cost more), the specific solar panels and inverters chosen, and the complexity of the installation. Remember, the federal STC incentive will reduce these figures significantly.

Real-world inspiration: Logan businesses winning with solar

While specific company names are often kept private, I’ve spoken with installers who have helped a huge range of Logan businesses make the switch. Think of warehouses in Berrinba eliminating their massive daytime cooling bills, professional offices in Springwood running their lighting and computers from the sun, and local manufacturing plants in Crestmead locking in their energy costs to remain competitive. The story is the same across the board: solar provides control, savings, and a tangible commitment to a greener future.

A complete guide to solar for small business Logan and council incentives

A question I get asked often is whether Logan City Council offers its own direct rebates for businesses. As of late 2025, there are no specific council-run cash-back schemes for commercial solar installation.

However, Logan City Council is highly committed to sustainability and supporting local businesses. The council has become a “Small Business Friendly Council,” pledging to support local enterprises and reduce red tape. While this doesn’t translate to a direct solar grant, their focus on creating a resilient and sustainable local economy means they are supportive of businesses making green investments.

Your next steps

Making the move to solar is a significant decision, but it’s one of the most powerful investments a small business in Logan can make. It offers a clear path to reducing overheads, protecting your business from rising energy prices, and building a more sustainable brand.

If you’re ready to get a proper quote, I can introduce you to a trusted, SAA-accredited local expert who can provide a detailed assessment of your business’s needs. Just fill out the form below. For a quick, personalised estimate of solar costs and savings for your business, you can also try the free solar assistant on this page.