Modern buildings are increasingly becoming symbols of a sustainable future. This is especially noticeable in the business districts of large cities, where several tenants share a single roof. Installing a solar power plant (SPP) in such a setting is a logical step—but a fair question arises: how should the costs and benefits be divided among the companies?
One roof, one source of energy — benefits for everyone
Imagine a business center housing six tenants. Each one has their own floor space, energy bills, and operating schedules. Yet the roof is shared. Installing a single SPP instead of six separate ones is a practical solution: it saves space, cuts installation and maintenance costs.
For example, a low-cost solar power plant in Kyiv for office buildings can cover a significant portion of electricity consumption without relying on the grid. This is especially relevant given the rising energy tariffs.
But how can the installation, equipment, and ongoing maintenance costs be split fairly?
Rules of the game: the foundations of cost-sharing
There are several common models of cost allocation:
- By rented area. The larger the office, the higher the contribution to the system—and the greater the share of generated energy.
- By actual energy consumption. Arguably the fairest option. Each company pays according to how much electricity they use from the SPP.
- Fixed-rate model. All participants contribute the same amount, regardless of their usage or space.
Whichever method is chosen, it’s essential to formalize everything with documentation. This can be done through a tenant agreement or included as a clause in the lease.
An example from Odesa
In one of Odesa’s office centers, tenants joined forces and invested together in a solar power installation. Each company submitted its average monthly consumption data. Based on this, their respective shares in the project were calculated. The system is managed by a facility operator, and maintenance fees are distributed accordingly.
Today, they operate a 30 kW solar power plant turnkey and price in Odesa, which turned out to be twice as cost-effective compared to individual installations for each tenant.
Who benefits from joining forces?
This approach is particularly appealing for:
- long-term tenants with stable operations;
- building owners seeking to increase the value of their property;
- cooperatives looking to optimize shared utility costs.
Even with the initial investment, a shared solar power plant pays for itself in 3–5 years. After that—it’s all savings and minimal dependence on outside providers.
Together is better than alone
Let’s compare: when a company invests in its own solar power solution, it carries the full financial burden. But with collective investment, the costs are distributed and the efficiency increases.
Here’s a simple analogy: installing a generator in each apartment is expensive and impractical. But one generator for the entire building? Smart and efficient.
The final note: it’s not just about money
Shared use of a solar power system is also a reputational move. Sustainability-minded businesses attract better partners, gain customer trust, and may even benefit from tax incentives.
And, of course, every project leads to the same crucial question: which solar power plant to choose—5, 10, or 30 kW—to ensure it meets the collective needs? It’s important to account not just for current consumption, but for future expansion plans or, say, switching to electric vehicles.
Conclusion: a bright future under one roof
The shared ownership model for solar power plants is built on trust, transparency, and mutual gain. Choosing the right partnership format can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure reliable power supply for years to come. When intelligence, technology, and a common goal for efficiency meet on one rooftop—true solutions for the future are born.
