Auto dealerships across Southern California are facing a major operational shift. Between volatile utility costs, surging EV inventory, and growing consumer expectations for sustainable businesses, many dealerships in Los Angeles and San Diego are turning to solar energy. Not as a trend—but as a smart, long-term business strategy.
But going solar isn’t just about installing panels. Success starts with expert planning, proper financial modeling, and having the right partners. That’s where EIP Consulting comes in.
The Unique Energy Demands of Dealerships
Showrooms, exterior lot lighting, repair bays, HVAC systems, and increasingly, EV charging stations—dealerships consume large amounts of electricity. In high-cost utility markets like Los Angeles and San Diego, this can easily result in monthly energy bills reaching five figures.
An average mid-sized dealership using 25,000–50,000 kWh/month may pay upwards of $120,000 annually in electricity costs alone.
For dealerships managing tight profit margins, solar offers an opportunity to control operating expenses, reduce long-term costs, and improve net operating income (NOI).
Why Solar Makes Business Sense for Dealerships
Solar is more than a green badge—it’s a practical investment with measurable returns.
Key financial and operational benefits:
- Lower electricity bills from day one
- Eligibility for a 30%+ Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and accelerated depreciation
- Additional incentives from utilities like LADWP and SDG&E
- Increased property value
- EV charging infrastructure integration
- Strong brand alignment with sustainability goals
When systems are correctly scoped, commercial solar projects often reach ROI in 4–6 years—with 25+ years of additional savings.
Solar Carports: Generating Power & Enhancing Presentation
Southern California dealerships are increasingly turning to solar carports to maximize land use. These structures not only generate significant clean power, they also provide shade and weather protection for valuable on-lot inventory.
As EV adoption accelerates, carports can be designed to integrate Level 2 or Level 3 chargers, future-proofing the dealership experience.
EIP Consulting helps clients assess:
- Site suitability for carport installations
- Permit and utility interconnection timelines
- Optimal PV system sizing and charger pairing
- CAPEX vs. OPEX strategies including leasing, PPAs, and ownership
Why Dealerships in LA & San Diego Are Taking Action Now
Southern California is one of the best regions in the U.S. for commercial solar, thanks to consistent sun exposure and incentive-rich environments.
In Los Angeles:
- DWP offers commercial rebates and net metering opportunities
- Dense commercial zones make solar ROI fast and measurable
In San Diego:
- Solar production potential exceeds 1,800 kWh/kW annually
- Utility rate structures encourage on-site generation and load offsetting
Incentive programs from providers like LADWP and SDG&E are updated regularly. EIP Consulting actively monitors and works with these organizations to ensure our clients always receive the maximum available benefits.
The EIP Consulting Advantage: We Do the Heavy Lifting
EIP Consulting is not a solar installer. We are your independent solar advisor and advocate.
Our value lies in providing unbiased, data-driven analysis and presenting the best-fit options—without the hard sell.
Here’s how we support dealership owners:
- Conduct custom energy audits and site assessments
- Research federal, state, and local incentives (including IRS Form 3468)
- Source proposals from a curated group of proven solar contractors
- Deliver a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis
- Guide the dealership through every stage of project planning
- Offer ongoing monitoring and maintenance packages post-installation
With over $25 million in dealership solar projects reviewed, we understand what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Case Snapshot: From Quote to Savings
One Southern California auto group approached EIP Consulting unsure whether solar was worth pursuing. We conducted a full review of their three properties across LA and San Diego, calculated projected ROI under multiple funding options, and sourced quotes from three vetted EPCs.
The outcome: a hybrid solar + carport + EV charging design expected to offset 70% of electricity costs across all locations. The group is now on track to save over $115,000 annually.
Start with a No-Obligation Consultation
At EIP Consulting, we don’t sell solar—we help dealerships buy it wisely.
With rising energy costs, EV infrastructure mandates, and powerful tax credits on the table, the time to evaluate solar is now. Let us do the research, calculations, and vendor outreach—so you can focus on running your business.
Book your free consultation with EIP Consulting today and discover what solar can do for your dealership’s bottom line.