PV Gap

Lena Said:

How can I start a solar panel business?

We Answered:

Go to http://www.score.org/index.html and in the upper left hand corner, enter your zip code. On the next screen, you will find the SCORE chapter nearest you. Call them and arrange for a free meeting with a SCORE counselor.

SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

SCORE was founded in 1964 and is headquartered in Herndon, VA and Washington, DC and has 389 chapters throughout the United States and its territories, with 11,500 volunteers nationwide. Both working and retired executives and business owners donate time and expertise as business counselors. SCORE is America's premier source of free and confidential small business advice for entrepreneurs.

Hazel Said:

Are there any Federal tax rebates or deductions for purchasing solar panels for my business?

We Answered:

IRS Form 5695, http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5695.pdf

Best wishes.

Phillip Said:

need advice on solar panels business?

We Answered:

The first thing you need to do is find a place to get them so you can sell them or install them. You did not say what part of the world you live in but I am sure is some paperwork t file there. You will need some money to buy product with or find someone that will bankroll it for you.

More of a 1, 2, 3 order
1 find the product
2 find the money
3 do the paper work.
and
4 Get to work.

If you do the above you will find the next step.

Delores Said:

Cost of solar panels in the business world...help please!?

We Answered:

Here is a site where you can get the info:

http://www.alibaba.com

Gary Said:

What licenses or permits do I need if I'm starting a online business selling solar panels in California?

We Answered:

You need a reseller's license from the Franchise Tax Board. That way, you will be exempt from paying tax on panels that you buy for resale. And yes, you would have to pay sales tax based on your sales in California. That does not mean you have to charge sales tax to your customers, only that you have to pay it.

Run the numbers carefully. Can you offer a competitive price, or some other feature that makes your panels better than other online ones?

Louise Said:

How could I get a business to sponser/donate solar panels?

We Answered:

This is a tough economic environment right now, most places are focusing on staying afloat in the short term. If you have a parent or parents that are CEO's of businesses, you might be able to swing a donation for a smaller system Most likely, you would have to seek donations from the other parents, too, and how much you get would depend on how hard-pressed your area is.

By the way, solar panels are getting to be mainstream on schools where I live. Try taking a look at the Google satellite map for Payne Elementary or Milpitas High School in California for examples. So if your school is in a sunny area of the country, there won't be that much novelty.