In today’s competitive business environment, companies are facing growing pressures to operate more sustainably while keeping costs under control. Meeting Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) targets has become a priority, with customers and stakeholders alike demanding greater transparency and accountability around sustainability efforts.

As pioneers in the industry for more than 70 years, Solahart has seen how transitioning to solar can transform businesses and contribute to ESG objectives while achieving savings.

Whether you’re running a small retail outlet or managing a large warehouse, solar energy offers a straightforward and cost-effective solution to reduce both business expenses and carbon emissions.

Why ESG targets matter

ESG has become a central concern within the retail sector, with businesses facing increasing scrutiny from regulators, investors, and customers. More than just a regulatory requirement, sustainability targets are now a strategic necessity and companies that fail to meet environmental expectations risk losing market share to competitors.

Solar power offers a highly effective way to address the environmental component of ESG targets as it reduces reliance on fossil fuels and helps cut greenhouse gas emissions. By integrating renewable energy solutions, such as solar, into operations, retailers can stay competitive, avoid penalties, and strengthen their brand reputation.

Beyond its sustainability advantages, solar energy is also a powerful financial tool that delivers immediate and long-term savings. Retailers who invest in solar can significantly reduce their energy costs, allowing them to redirect those savings back into other areas of their business, such as customer experience, product innovation, or digital transformation.

Empowering businesses with solar

Solahart has been at the forefront of renewable energy since 1953, providing reliable, high-efficiency solar solutions that meet the specific needs of households and businesses. From photovoltaic (PV) panels to solar water heaters, Solahart’s products are designed to be scalable and efficient, making them an ideal choice for retailers with varying energy demands.

Ease of integration and minimal disruption to operations make them the ideal choice for businesses looking to transition to renewable energy. Once installed, the commercial benefits are immediate, including lower energy bills, reduced carbon emissions, and greater energy independence. This can be particularly advantageous in regions with volatile energy prices or frequent power outages, providing businesses with more control over their power supply.

Achieving holistic business health with Solahart

A recent installation of a Solahart solar power and Home Energy Management system at supplements manufacturer and Certified B Corporation®, Factors Group Australia, helped the business to double down on its commitment to sustainability.

Like many Australian organisations, Factors Group felt the pressure of rising electricity costs and needed a way to future-proof the business. Guided by an ethos of ethical manufacturing, the business’s goal was to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions at all of its locations.

Integrating seamlessly with their existing infrastructure, the system is estimated to save the company approximately $33,400 annually, resulting in an expected return on investment in just over two and a half years.

The business will also be able to offset its annual carbon footprint by 28 per cent, which equates to about 124.4 tonnes of CO2 per year.

The Energy Management Unit also provides Factors Group with the ability to maximise savings by tracking energy consumption in real time.

Strategic investment in sustainability

Solar energy is a long-term investment that delivers both sustainability and financial benefits. With advances in solar technology driving greater efficiency and affordability, businesses can enjoy substantial returns for decades after installation, making it a vital part of reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

As businesses continue to prioritise ESG targets, the demand for renewable energy solutions, such as those offered by Solahart, is expected to grow.

Solahart’s innovative solar systems offer commercial enterprises practical solutions to reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources, empowering them to play a role in the decarbonisation of the global economy, all while fulfilling their ESG targets.

By investing in solar energy, companies can not only achieve their sustainability goals but also position themselves as leaders in the transition to a greener economy.

Nathan Vale is Sydney manager for Solahart.