In places like Riverside and Bakersfield, where the sun rarely takes a day off and electricity costs keep climbing, solar carports are quickly becoming more than just a nice-to-have. They’re a smart, strategic move—one that not only cuts costs but adds functionality and value to commercial properties.
At EIP Consulting, we’ve seen firsthand how solar carports are changing the way businesses think about energy. And if you’re considering one, it’s important to know the difference between just buying solar panels and planning a system that truly pays off.
More Than Just Shade: How Solar Carports Work for You
A solar carport isn’t just a panel on a pole. It’s a structure that offers shade and shelter while generating clean power—without giving up roof space. Think of it as a working asset for your parking lot. In cities like Riverside and Bakersfield, that means shaded spots during triple-digit summers, built-in EV charger potential, and a strong return on investment.
At EIP, we help clients figure out whether a carport fits their layout, how much energy it can produce, and how it can support future upgrades—like EV charging stations.
Why This Works So Well in the Inland Empire and Central Valley
Let’s be honest: the climate in Riverside and Bakersfield is perfect for solar. Long daylight hours and intense sun exposure make solar production incredibly efficient. But it’s not just about the weather.
- In Riverside, Southern California Edison’s time-of-use rates reward businesses that generate power during midday hours.
- In Bakersfield, PG&E’s commercial rates continue to climb—especially for high-consumption operations.
We work closely with these utilities, keeping track of incentive timelines and interconnection requirements so our clients don’t miss opportunities.
What About Incentives?
This is where a lot of businesses get overwhelmed—and where we step in. We keep up with the latest from organizations like the California Energy Commission and utility-specific programs, so our clients can take advantage of:
- The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), still sitting at 30% (source)
- Accelerated depreciation through MACRS
- Local rebates or utility-backed bonus incentives (which change often)
In short, we know how to stack these opportunities to make your investment as cost-effective as possible.
What EIP Consulting Actually Does (And Doesn’t Do)
We’re not installers. We’re advisors. And that makes all the difference.
If you work with us, we’ll start by analyzing your lot and energy usage, model out different system sizes, and pull proposals from trusted contractors we’ve worked with before. You’ll get clear numbers, a smart comparison, and a complete strategy presentation you can bring to decision-makers.
Need help with permitting or applying for rebates? We handle that too. And once your system’s in place, we stick around—offering maintenance support and performance monitoring if you want it.
Carports That Do More Than Power Lights
We’ve worked with schools, industrial facilities, retail plazas, and nonprofit organizations across California. And no two systems are the same.
In some cases, it’s about shading an employee parking lot while offsetting daytime energy use. In others, it’s about layering in Level 2 EV chargers or meeting LEED sustainability goals. The point is: solar carports are adaptable. And when designed right, they become an asset that pays off in more ways than one.
And for multi-location operators—like regional retail chains or school districts—EIP can evaluate and prioritize sites based on where the returns are strongest, helping maximize investment across your portfolio.
Quick Answers: Solar Carport FAQs
How long does it take to install a commercial solar carport?
Timelines can vary based on permitting, design complexity, and utility interconnection, but a typical project ranges from 3 to 6 months from planning to activation.
Can I finance a solar carport without paying out of pocket?
Yes. We’ll help you evaluate lease, loan, and PPA (power purchase agreement) options depending on your tax appetite and cash flow needs.
What if I don’t have EV chargers yet?
No problem. Many of our designs include conduit for future EV charging expansion—so you can start with solar and build as you grow.
Let’s Talk. No Pitch. Just Insight.
If you’re in Riverside, Bakersfield, or anywhere nearby, we’d love to talk through your goals. We’ll run the numbers, walk you through your options, and give you a roadmap—at no cost and no obligation.
Reach out to EIP Consulting today to find out if a solar carport makes sense for your property and budget. It might be one of the smartest upgrades you make this year.