Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 24, SolMicroGrid, a U.S.-based energy solutions provider, has introduced an energy-as-a-service (EaaS) program aimed at developers seeking to transition from near-completed solar and microgrid projects while securing upfront capital. The initiative, announced recently, enables developers to exit projects efficiently while offering host customers renewable energy without capital investment through long-term EaaS agreements.

The program supports a variety of systems, including rooftop solar, solar canopies, battery storage, generator sets, electric vehicle infrastructure, and advanced microgrids. Under EaaS agreements, customers pay for energy services on a subscription or pay-per-use basis, avoiding the responsibilities of owning or managing infrastructure. SolMicroGrid notes that these agreements typically provide renewable energy at rates lower than traditional utility tariffs, delivering cost savings and operational simplicity.

“Project originators receive a clean, fast exit and upfront payment,” said Kirk Edelman, CEO of SolMicroGrid. “Host customers get predictable energy savings without ownership complexity, and SolMicroGrid assumes long-term operations, maintenance, and performance responsibility. It’s an elegant solution to a common challenge.”

While EaaS models have been used in capital-intensive sectors like hospitals, their adoption is growing in commercial and industrial (C&I) settings. Unlike the residential sector, where energy efficiency upgrades are common, C&I facilities often face capital constraints and project complexities. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimates solar system maintenance costs at $15 to $25 per kilowatt annually, with aging equipment leading to performance degradation and rising repair costs. By transferring ownership to SolMicroGrid, C&I clients avoid these expenses and benefit from the company’s expertise in optimizing system performance.

A notable example is Chick-fil-A, which signed an EaaS agreement with SolMicroGrid earlier this year for a solar array and energy storage system at one of its U.S. locations. The project is projected to reduce the franchise’s annual energy costs by 10%, meeting about one-third of its energy needs without upfront costs or maintenance obligations.

Additionally, SolMicroGrid launched its “Array to Microgrids” service earlier this year, allowing business owners to sell aging solar arrays for immediate cash and transition to fully managed microgrids. This aligns with the EaaS strategy, offering flexible, sustainable energy solutions. By addressing capital and operational challenges, SolMicroGrid’s programs support the adoption of renewable energy, delivering economic and environmental benefits to developers and customers across the C&I sector.