Solar financing for nonprofits, businesses, and multifamily properties
Traditional lenders often see commercial solar as too complex or too small, especially for nonprofits and projects serving underserved communities. SELF fills that gap with flexible, purpose-driven capital. Financing supports projects from groundbreaking through stabilization, including construction loans, bridge financing against federal tax credits (ITC/REC), and mini-perm loans.
As a nonprofit CDFI, SELF has financed clean energy improvements across the Southeast for more than a decade. With SELF, you get more than capital; you get a partner who understands solar economics and shares your commitment to putting clean energy to work in your community.
Commercial Solar Loan Details
Underwriting is project-specific and includes cash-flow analysis, EPC and interconnection review, and assessment of offtake and completion risk. Loans are secured by a first-position lien on the property or a UCC lien on the solar equipment. Interest rates are subject to change.
Flexible Solar Project Financing
SELF’s Commercial Solar Financing is designed for nonprofits, small businesses, and housing developers who seek flexible, mission-aligned project finance for commercial solar systems. This program offers flexible funding for:
- Commercial rooftop and ground-mount solar PV installations
- Land acquisition and site preparation
- Battery storage and microgrid systems paired with solar
- ITC/REC bridge financing during tax credit monetization
- Mini-perm takeout financing following construction completion
- Reasonable project-related costs, including EPC, interconnection, and permitting
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility requirements?
Eligible borrowers include nonprofit organizations, for-profit businesses, and multifamily housing developers. Priority is given to projects serving underserved communities or advancing environmental justice goals.
What types of commercial solar projects can SELF finance?
We finance rooftop and ground-mount PV installations on commercial property. Battery storage and microgrid systems qualify when they’re paired with solar. If the project needs land, acquisition and site preparation can be financed too, along with the costs that come with getting built: EPC, interconnection, permitting.
How the financing is structured depends on the project. An ITC/REC bridge loan is available during tax credit and renewable energy certificate monetization, and mini-perm takeout financing can follow once construction is complete.
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Other Financing Options
SAGE Climate-Resilient Housing Development Financing
Construction financing and technical assistance for emerging developers building resilient housing.
Housing Participation Loans
Flexible participation capital for mid- to large-scale affordable housing and community development projects.