Accounting For Solar Installers
As a solar installer, you understand the importance of providing clean, renewable energy to your customers. But did you know that proper accounting is also crucial to the success of your business? Good accounting practices can help you track and manage your finances, stay compliant with tax laws, and make informed business decisions. Without accurate and timely financial information, it can be difficult to properly manage your business and ensure its long-term viability.
Tracking Installation Costs
One of the key accounting challenges for solar installers is tracking the costs and benefits of the solar panels and systems that you install. These costs can include the purchase price of the panels and equipment, as well as installation and labor costs. The benefits can include government incentives, such as tax credits, as well as the revenue generated from the sale of solar energy to your customers.
Properly tracking and accounting for these costs and benefits can be complex, and it is important to work with a knowledgeable and experienced accountant who can help you navigate the complexities of the solar industry. Your accountant can help you set up accounting systems and processes that are tailored to your specific needs and can provide valuable guidance on tax planning and compliance.
In addition to tracking costs and benefits, proper accounting can also help you manage your cash flow and ensure that you have the financial resources to grow your business. This can include setting up a budget, tracking expenses, and managing accounts receivable and accounts payable.
Revenue Recognition
One key area of accounting that is particularly relevant to solar installers is revenue recognition, which is governed by Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 606.
Under ASC 606, companies must recognize revenue when it is realized or earned, and when the company has satisfied its performance obligations. This means that, as a solar installer, you must carefully track and account for the costs and benefits associated with each installation project.
For example, let's say that you have signed a contract to install a solar panel system for a customer. You have completed installing the PV panels on the roof but still, have to reschedule for the main panel upgrade and the electrical. In this case you won't be able to recognize revenue for the entire contract until the system is fully operational, but rather a percent of the total cost to complete the contract.
ASC 606: Comprehensive Guide to Revenue Recognition | Global Finance Teams
Under ASC 606, you would need to carefully track and account for the costs associated with the installation of the panels, including the purchase price of the panels and equipment, as well as installation and labor costs. You would also need to track the revenue generated from the sale of solar energy to the customer and recognize this revenue as it is earned.
Properly tracking and accounting for revenue under ASC 606 can be complex, and it is important to work with a knowledgeable and experienced accountant who can help you navigate the requirements of the standard. Your accountant can help you set up accounting systems and processes that are tailored to your specific needs and can provide valuable guidance on revenue recognition and compliance with ASC 606.
Work with a Solar Installer Accountant
Overall, good accounting practices are essential for the success of your solar installation business. They can help you track and manage your finances, stay compliant with tax laws, and make informed business decisions. Working with a knowledgeable and experienced accountant that has experience with solar installers and ASC 606 can provide valuable support and guidance in managing your business's accounting needs.