Thinking of switching to solar for your business? This guide explains how open access solar works and why it could be your smartest energy decision.
Electricity costs are rising, and businesses are pressured to switch to cleaner energy. Solar power is a strong option, but building and maintaining a solar plant isn’t always possible for every company.
This is where open access solar power offers a practical alternative. It enables businesses to utilize solar electricity without having to own or manage the system. Power is sourced directly from a solar developer and delivered through the state electricity grid under a long-term agreement.
This blog explains how open access works, how it supports cost savings and clean energy goals, and why it’s becoming a preferred choice for commercial and industrial users.
What Is Open Access Solar Power ?
Open access solar power is a model in which businesses can buy solar electricity directly from a solar plant through the state electricity grid. There’s no need to install or own a solar system on-site. The government approves this model, which is mainly used by commercial and industrial power consumers.
The business signs a long-term agreement with a solar power provider and pays only for the electricity used. Since there’s no upfront investment or maintenance, it helps reduce costs while supporting clean energy use. It’s a flexible way to switch to solar without owning the setup.
How Do Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreements Work?
Renewable energy power purchase agreements (PPAs) are long-term contracts between a business and a solar power provider. Under these agreements, the business agrees to buy electricity at a fixed rate, usually for 10 to 25 years, without needing to own or install a solar system.
There are two main types of PPAs:
- On-site PPA – where the solar setup is installed at the business location
- Off-site PPA (open access) – where power is supplied from a remote solar plant via the grid
PPAs offer price stability, lower power costs, and zero maintenance – making them a preferred choice for companies switching to clean energy without upfront investment.
Why Businesses Are Turning to Corporate Renewable Energy Sourcing
More companies are now choosing corporate renewable energy sourcing as part of their long-term energy and sustainability strategy. Here’s why it’s becoming a preferred approach:
Lower energy costs
Renewable energy often comes at a lower rate than traditional grid power, helping companies reduce their electricity bills.
Stable pricing
Fixed-rate contracts protect businesses from market price hikes and unpredictable tariff increases.
Sustainability goals
Businesses are under growing pressure to reduce carbon emissions and improve their environmental impact. Green energy supports these targets.
Better brand image
Sourcing clean energy adds value to corporate reputation, especially with investors and eco-conscious customers.
Global trend
Programs like RE100 show how leading companies worldwide are shifting to 100% renewable energy through PPAs and open access models.
Corporate renewable energy sourcing is not just about cost – it’s a smart move toward cleaner operations, energy security, and long-term value.
Business Benefits of Open Access Solar Power
Open access solar power gives companies a practical way to cut energy costs and meet sustainability goals, without owning any solar plant. These are the main advantages for businesses:
Cost savings through lower tariff vs DISCOM
With open access solar power, businesses often pay less per unit than traditional DISCOM electricity rates. This leads to noticeable monthly savings, especially for energy-heavy operations like factories or data centers.
Long-term price stability
Power purchase agreements lock in fixed tariffs for years. This protects businesses from future electricity price hikes and brings predictability to long-term energy planning.
No capex or maintenance
There’s no need to invest in solar panels or infrastructure. The solar developer handles everything – from setup to maintenance – making this a stress-free energy shift for any company.
Green branding + CSR impact
Switching to solar power helps businesses reduce carbon emissions. It supports CSR goals and strengthens the brand image among eco-conscious customers and investors.
Scalable for multi-location businesses
Commercial energy solutions like open access solar can be extended to multiple sites across a state, making it ideal for growing companies with several locations.
How to Opt for Open Access Solar: Step-by-Step
Site and consumption assessment
The first step is to analyze your energy consumption and location. This helps estimate how much solar power your business will need and whether open access is viable for your site.
Finding a power developer or aggregator
You’ll need to connect with a solar power producer or aggregator who can supply clean electricity under an open access model. They typically handle generation, transmission, and compliance.
Signing the PPA
Once the commercial terms are agreed upon, both parties sign a renewable energy power purchase agreement (PPA). This outlines supply duration, per-unit pricing, and performance terms.
State approvals and open access charges
The power provider will apply for open access permissions and calculate applicable wheeling, banking, or cross-subsidy charges as per state policy.
Installation and initiation of the power supply
If the solar plant is new, the developer sets it up. Once ready, solar power flows to your business through the state grid.
Ongoing support from EPC or solar partners
Trusted EPC contractors or clean energy partners manage supply tracking, billing, and compliance, making staying focused on your operations easier.
Conclusion: Clean Power That Makes Business Sense
Open access solar power is helping businesses escape rising energy costs and unreliable grids. It’s one of the most practical commercial energy solutions available today, with flexible contracts, zero setup burden, and long-term savings.
If your company is ready to explore corporate renewable energy sourcing, partners like Wattnexx can help you make the switch with ease, handling everything from site assessment to PPA execution. Their team supports businesses across sectors in accessing clean power without complexity. Explore a cost-saving, future-ready solar path with Wattnexx.