Using solar to meet sustainability and ESG targets
Solar helps businesses reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs and demonstrate commitment to environmental stewardship. Well-documented solar projects support ESG reporting, stakeholder communication and compliance with corporate sustainability goals.
How solar supports ESG
- Emissions reduction: Onsite solar displaces grid electricity that often includes fossil fuel generation, reducing scope 2 emissions.
- Renewable procurement: Solar demonstrates direct investment in clean energy and can contribute to renewable portfolio goals.
- Community and brand value: Solar projects can improve stakeholder relations and attract customers and investors focused on sustainability.
Reporting considerations
- Measurement: Track kWh generated, emissions avoided and percent of energy from renewables.
- Verification: Use monitoring data and third-party certifications to validate claims.
- Disclosure: Incorporate solar metrics into sustainability reports, CDP submissions and corporate websites.
Strategic actions
- Combine onsite solar with renewable energy certificates (RECs) or power purchase agreements for broader renewable procurement.
- Set clear targets and time-bound goals for renewable energy adoption.
- Integrate energy efficiency measures to lower baseline consumption and improve the percentage of energy supplied by solar.
Investor and stakeholder communication
Provide transparent, auditable data on solar production, savings and emissions impacts. Highlight operational resilience benefits and any community engagement or workforce development tied to the project.
Solar is a practical, visible way for businesses to advance sustainability and meet ESG commitments when paired with robust measurement and reporting frameworks.