45 Solar Business Ideas You Can Start Today [2024]

Updated: July 11th, 2024

Interested in starting a solar business in 2024?

We put together 45 of the best solar businesses you can start in today.

For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other solar businesses to help you see what it really takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Start a youtube channel

For anyone looking to start a successful YouTube channel, there are plenty of YouTube channel success stories that can be used as inspiration and encouragement. In addition, YouTube has an established monetization system and boasts incredible popularity, making it a potential platform for revenue generation.

In this article, we'll look at different approaches you can use to help promote your channel and grow your viewers. While there's no quick and easy way to success, you can take these tips to build your own YouTube Channel Success story. If you love content creation, you can capitalize on YouTube's popularity to earn extra income.

If you want to join the Youtube partner program to monetize your channel, you will need to reach a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the previous 12 months.

How much you can make: $800 — $1,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How This Couple Makes $5K/Month Generating Content About Ways To Make Money Online

Learn how this entrepreneurial couple made $5-7k a month by helping others find legitimate work from home jobs and creative ways to make money online through their blog and YouTube channel, as well as offering two flagship products designed to help beginner freelancers and new bloggers accelerate growth.

Read by 14,059 founders

2. Start a solar energy business

Switching to solar energy has become the best way to save money by reducing utility bills. Are you interested in starting a business that focuses on renewable energy solutions?

A solar company can be a great business idea. You can set up a solar energy plant and sell the power to households and businesses without requiring them to purchase the entire solar energy system.

How much you can make: $600,000 — $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How I Started A $600K/Month Company Selling Low Cost Solar Energy

Clean Energy Solutions, a solar-energy provider based in LA, has grown over 6700% from 2014 to 2019, with monthly revenue around $600,000 and plans to expand its energy-efficient affordable housing division, thanks to its unique solar program allowing clients to save money using solar energy at a lower price than their utility would charge.

Read by 67,584 founders

3. Start a solar products selling business

Harness the power of the sun with a solar products selling business. Simply put, this venture involves offering a range of solar-powered products—such as panels, batteries, and even solar gadgets—to consumers looking to embrace renewable energy solutions.

What's appealing about diving into solar product sales is the growing demand for sustainable energy alternatives. For budding entrepreneurs, this means a ready market with increasing awareness and appetite for eco-friendly options. Starting this business requires sourcing reliable suppliers, understanding local regulations, and marketing effectively to your target audience.

Investing time in building a robust online presence and a network within the renewable energy community can be pivotal. If the idea of contributing to a greener planet while running a profitable business resonates with you, this is a compelling avenue to explore.

How much you can make: $2,000,000 — $3,265,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How I Started A $60M/Year Renewable Energy Company Specialized In DIY Solar Solutions

Renogy, a renewable energy company, founded by Yi Li, specializes in providing DIY solar solutions for everyday life and makes $60 million a year with a growing customer base through e-commerce platforms and partnerships with select social media users.

Read by 15,494 founders

4. Start a solar panel installation business

The solar panel installation business is a growing industry. In the past decade, solar panels have become more affordable and attractive to consumers. This has led to an increase in demand for solar panel installation services.

Solar energy is one of the most sustainable and environmentally-friendly forms of energy available today. It produces no greenhouse gas emissions or other toxic chemicals that can harm the environment or human health.

A solar panel installation business should consider investing in marketing strategies that will help them reach their target audience and sell their services effectively.

How much you can make: $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Our Solar Installation Business Just Hit $24M/Year

Solar Energy Partners, a solar-focused company founded by Alex K Williams, has achieved more than 400% growth since inception, and is expanding into new markets while offering best customer service and training programs.

Read by 4,289 founders

5. Start a solar system repairing & maintenance business

Solar energy has come a long way today, thanks to technological advancements. An ordinary household can access solar panels that were once only accessible to big agencies like NASA. Today, the global adoption of solar as an energy source is on an upward trajectory.

The rising utility cost and constant lobbying by the green energy companies are some attributes resulting in the increased adoption of solar lighting.

According to statistics, the US is the leading country in North America regarding installed solar capacity. Data shows the cumulative residential solar installation capacity is about 22,151 megawatts. With the rising adoption of solar as an energy source, starting a solar system repairing and maintenance business can be a great business opportunity.

To start, focus on earning a solar certification. A solar accreditation is essential to promoting customer confidence and putting you ahead of the average uncertified business. Remember that you may need solar licensing if you work outside your home state. Some states also require a specialized solar contractor license.

6. Start a solar products distribution business

Looking to make a difference in the renewable energy sector with minimal upfront costs? Consider starting a solar products distribution business. In its essence, this business involves sourcing and supplying solar energy products like panels, inverters, and storage batteries to retailers or end consumers.

The demand for sustainable energy solutions is on the rise, and by stepping into this field, you can cater to a variety of clients including homeowners, businesses, and even local governments. Being a distributor means you focus on logistics and relationship-building rather than manufacturing.

The path involves partnering with reliable manufacturers, ensuring the quality of your products, and managing efficient delivery systems. If you have good networking skills and a knack for sales, the solar products distribution business offers the potential for rewarding returns while helping the planet.

How much you can make: $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Our Solar Installation Business Just Hit $24M/Year

Solar Energy Partners, a solar-focused company founded by Alex K Williams, has achieved more than 400% growth since inception, and is expanding into new markets while offering best customer service and training programs.

Read by 4,289 founders

7. Start a solar product marketing business

Looking to dive into the renewable energy market? Consider starting a solar product marketing business.

In simple terms, this business involves promoting and selling solar-powered products, from small gadgets like solar chargers to larger installations like home solar panels.

As the world shifts towards sustainability, the demand for eco-friendly solutions is on the rise. This is an opportunity to tap into a growing market, making both a positive impact and a profit.

Your role will involve market research, identifying potential customers, creating compelling marketing campaigns, and partnering with manufacturers or suppliers. It’s a venture that not only promises financial rewards but also contributes to a greener planet.

How much you can make: $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Our Solar Installation Business Just Hit $24M/Year

Solar Energy Partners, a solar-focused company founded by Alex K Williams, has achieved more than 400% growth since inception, and is expanding into new markets while offering best customer service and training programs.

Read by 4,289 founders

8. Start a solar farm business

9. Become a solar consultant

Solar consultants help explain renewable energy systems and resources available to potential customers.

Solar consultants often travel to different sites to evaluate power needs and provide cost estimates to homeowners and businesses willing to install solar energy systems.

To become a solar consultant, you need basic education and experience with solar systems. Since the solar industry is evolving very fast, you must be able to study new systems and understand the latest developments in this industry.

How much you can make: $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Our Solar Installation Business Just Hit $24M/Year

Solar Energy Partners, a solar-focused company founded by Alex K Williams, has achieved more than 400% growth since inception, and is expanding into new markets while offering best customer service and training programs.

Read by 4,289 founders

10. Start a solar panel cleaning business

11. Start a solar energy auditing business

Solar energy auditing assesses solar systems to determine your household’s energy consumption.

A solar energy audit helps households build a proper solar system while ensuring value for the investment by:

  • Revealing potential energy wastage sources
  • Evaluating thermal envelope to reveal any inefficiencies that result in energy loss
  • Allowing solar energy specialists to customize the system based on specific energy requirements
  • Understanding current energy consumption

Property owners and buyers have realized the importance of solar energy audits in increasing the home's resale value. As a result, the demand for solar energy auditors is high, creating a business opportunity for entrepreneurs in that line.

How much you can make: $1,000/month

How long does it take to build: 480 days (?)

How A Solar Startup Grew Their Organic Traffic By 69X In 15 Months

SolarFeeds, a two-sided marketplace connecting solar installers and suppliers, grew their organic traffic by 69 times in 18 months by focusing on SEO and building an audience through solar-related content before launching their platform.

Read by 3,513 founders

12. Start a solar energy university business

13. Start a financial products production business

Looking to enter a high-potential industry with a critical market need? Consider starting a financial products production business. This venture involves creating financial instruments such as custom investment portfolios, insurance products, and tailored loan packages for both individuals and businesses.

You'll need to navigate through regulatory guidelines and financial market dynamics. The actual work will involve in-depth research, collaborating with financial analysts, and designing products that meet specific client needs.

With a growing demand for personalized financial solutions, this business has vast potential for growth. Financial literacy is increasing, and more people are seeking customized financial products that offer higher returns and lower risk. If you have a knack for numbers and an eye for market trends, a financial products production business could be a rewarding opportunity.

How much you can make: $18,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $200 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

I Built A $216K/Year Personal Finance Blog By Mastering Pinterest

Finsavvy Panda earns $13,000 to $25,000 monthly in net profit through diversifying their income stream with display advertising, affiliate marketing, and selling digital products like The Power Up Budget Binder and Pin Savvy Pinterest Templates after starting a blog on personal finance and budgeting.

Read by 6,998 founders

14. Start a third party service provider business

15. Start a solar projects business

16. Start an informational products production business

17. Start a financial consulting business

Financial consulting is a business that helps individuals and businesses manage their financial affairs. Managing financial affairs include creating financial plans, analyzing financial data, and advising investment and financial decision-making.

To start a financial consulting business, you will need a strong understanding of financial principles and practices and excellent communication and problem-solving skills. You may also need to obtain necessary licenses or certifications, such as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.

To start the business, you must create a business plan, establish a business structure (such as a sole proprietorship or LLC), and identify your target market. You may also need to secure financing and create a marketing plan to attract clients. It is also important to network with other professionals in the financial industry and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the field.

How much you can make: $12,000 — $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)

I Grew My Spreadsheet Templates Side Hustle Into A $240K/Year Business

ProjectionHub helps entrepreneurs create financial projections using a library of 50+ CPA-developed financial projection spreadsheet templates, generating over $20,000 per month in revenue without the need for software subscription models.

Read by 9,812 founders

18. Start a solar products invention business

19. Start a solar brokerage business

20. Start a solar products manufacturing business

Sustainability is more than a buzzword; it's a viable business opportunity. Enter solar products manufacturing, a straightforward yet impactful way to tap into the green energy market.

This business involves creating products such as solar panels, solar-powered lights, and other renewable energy devices. With increasing demand for cleaner energy solutions, there's ample room for growth and innovation.

Starting this venture means committing to design, manufacturing, and quality control processes. It's certainly not a passive income stream, but the potential to contribute to environmental sustainability is a strong motivator.

If you're passionate about renewable energy and ready to invest in some hard work, this business could offer both financial rewards and the satisfaction of supporting a cleaner planet.

How much you can make: $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Our Solar Installation Business Just Hit $24M/Year

Solar Energy Partners, a solar-focused company founded by Alex K Williams, has achieved more than 400% growth since inception, and is expanding into new markets while offering best customer service and training programs.

Read by 4,289 founders

21. Start a nutritional advisory business

Nutrition is a critical part of health and development. Better nutrition results in improved health, robust immune systems, and a lower risk of infectious diseases.

With the risk of new and risky diseases such as coronavirus upon us, we need to improve our nutrition habits to ensure stronger immunity systems.

Therefore, starting a nutritionist advisory business is such a noble business idea. Nutritional advisors use food science to help clients make better choices with their food intake.

To become a nutritionist, you need a bachelor's degree in nutrition and complete a supervised dietetic internship.

How much you can make: $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,999 (?)

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How I Created A $250K/Month All-Natural Supplements Designed For Martial Arts Athletes

A founder built a successful sports nutrition company from scratch, focusing on creating all-natural supplements for martial arts athletes, which now generates over $250,000 a month in revenue by prioritizing customer experience and using tools like Shopify, Klaviyo, Postscript, and Gempages.

Read by 9,424 founders

22. Start a solar appraisal business

23. Start a solar energy powered cars manufacturing business

24. Start a solar panel sales and distribution business

Harness the power of the sun with a solar panel sales and distribution business. This venture focuses on selling and distributing solar panels to homeowners, businesses, and contractors seeking sustainable energy solutions.

Your role involves sourcing high-quality solar panels from manufacturers and establishing a network of sales agents and distributors. The demand for clean energy is growing, driven by environmental concerns and government incentives, making this a promising market.

Starting this business requires understanding solar technology, setting up supply chains, and developing effective sales strategies. It's a hands-on endeavor that promises not just profits but also a chance to promote green living.

If you're passionate about renewable energy and enjoy sales and distribution, this business can offer both financial rewards and a positive environmental impact.

How much you can make: $1,000/month

How long does it take to build: 480 days (?)

How A Solar Startup Grew Their Organic Traffic By 69X In 15 Months

SolarFeeds, a two-sided marketplace connecting solar installers and suppliers, grew their organic traffic by 69 times in 18 months by focusing on SEO and building an audience through solar-related content before launching their platform.

Read by 3,513 founders

25. Start a solar energy cooker manufacturing business

26. Start a solar energy wristwatches manufacturing business

27. Start a solar balloons manufacturing business

28. Start a green house farming business

29. Start a solar energy calculators manufacturing business

30. Start a saline water manufacturing business

31. Start a solar hot water heating system manufacturing business

32. Start a solar chimneys business

33. Start a salt production

Salt is essential in maintaining human health. According to statistics, about 90% of the world's population consumes salt.

With the population growth comes the demand for more salt supply. Therefore, starting a salt production business can be profitable.

Compared to other food supplies, salt processing is relatively inexpensive. If you want to start a salt processing business, do some market research and learn how to produce iodized salt.

To set up the salt processing plant, you must develop a business plan and arrange for funding.

34. Start a portable solar energy powered chargers/power bank business

35. Start a solar flashlights manufacturing business

How much does it cost to start: $250 (?)

36. Start a solar road studs manufacturing business

37. Start a solar energy expos organizing business

38. Start a solar tubes manufacturing business

39. Start a solar trash compacting bins business

40. Start a solar energy heated pools production business

41. Start a solar energy powered street lights business

42. Start a solar energy powered tents manufacturing business

43. Start a solar energy powered children's toys business

44. Start a solar energy powered gadgets business

45. Start a solar energy powered traffic control lights business

meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.