Published

2 years ago

February 4, 2024

Alice Rush

Net-Zero Funds: Fueling a Sustainable Future

The fight against climate change demands a collective effort, and the financial sector has a crucial role to play.

Enter Net-Zero Funds, emerging as powerful tools for driving environmental progress and offering investors an opportunity to align their values with their portfolios. But what exactly are they, and how are they changing the investment landscape?

Demystifying Net-Zero Funds:

At their core, Net-Zero Funds invest in companies and projects actively transitioning towards achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This translates into supporting renewable energy infrastructure, sustainable technologies, and green businesses across various sectors. They differ from traditional funds by employing stricter criteria to ensure their holdings contribute to climate solutions.

The Booming Green Landscape:

Net-Zero Funds are experiencing exponential growth, with assets under management surpassing USD 2 trillion globally. This surge reflects growing investor demand for sustainable solutions and aligning financial goals with environmental responsibility. Moreover, government policies and regulations promoting decarbonization further propel this trend.

Organizations that support Net-Zero Funds

Organizations Supporting Net-Zero Funds: Driving Sustainable Investment

As the quest for net-zero emissions intensifies, various organizations play crucial roles in supporting and promoting Net-Zero Funds, these financial instruments dedicated to decarbonization efforts. Let’s explore some key players across different sectors:

Investment Firms:

BlackRock: Committed to achieving net-zero by 2050, BlackRock offers various Net-Zero Funds like the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF and the BlackRock Global Climate Transition Equity Fund, managing trillions in sustainable assets.

Goldman Sachs: Pledging $2 trillion in sustainable finance by 2030, Goldman Sachs launched the Goldman Sachs Future Planet Equity ETF, investing in companies transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

BNP Paribas Asset Management: This firm offers diverse Net-Zero Funds, including the BNP Paribas Climate Engagement Europe UCITS ETF and the BNP Paribas Global Net Zero UCITS ETF, catering to specific sustainability goals.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):

The Climate Bonds Initiative: Promoting climate-friendly projects, this organization developed the Net-Zero Standard, helping investors identify impactful Net-Zero Funds.

CERES: A leading sustainability advocate, CERES works with investors and companies for a sustainable future. The Investor Network on Climate Change, convened by CERES, unites investor voices on climate action.

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF): Dedicated to global conservation, WWF launched the Net Zero Asset Owner Alliance, bringing together asset owners committed to net-zero by 2050.

Government Bodies:

The United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI): Partnering with the financial industry, UNEP FI launched the Net-Zero Asset Owner Alliance and the Net-Zero Banking Alliance, mobilizing financial institutions for net-zero goals.

The European Commission: Launched the Sustainable Finance Action Plan, aiming to mobilize private investment for sustainability. The plan actively promotes and incentivizes Net-Zero Funds.

The United States Department of the Treasury: Established the Climate Risk Committee, assessing climate risks to the US financial system and exploring ways to promote Net-Zero Funds.

These are just a few examples, and the ecosystem supporting Net-Zero Funds is constantly evolving. With growing momentum for sustainability, expect more organizations to emerge, shaping the future of responsible investment and accelerating the transition to a net-zero future.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Net-Zero Funds: Measuring Impact and Progress

Evaluating the performance and impact of Net-Zero Funds goes beyond traditional financial metrics. Here are some key performance indicators (KPIs) to consider:

Impact-Based KPIs:

Portfolio Alignment: Percentage of portfolio holdings aligned with a net-zero pathway, considering factors like renewable energy investments, emission reduction targets of companies, and green technology exposure.

Carbon Footprint Reduction: Absolute or relative reduction in the carbon footprint of the portfolio companies over time, considering Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Contribution: Alignment of investments with specific SDGs, demonstrating the fund’s contribution to broader sustainability goals.

Financial Performance KPIs:

Net Return: Overall financial return achieved by the fund, balancing financial performance with impact objectives.

Risk-Adjusted Return: Sharpe Ratio or other risk-adjusted return measures to assess the return generated relative to the level of risk taken.

Greenium/Brown Discount: Comparison of the fund’s price-to-earnings ratio to those of comparable non-sustainable funds, indicating any potential green premium or brown discount.

Engagement & Transparency KPIs:

Number of Engagement Activities: Frequency of engagement with investee companies on climate-related issues and decarbonization strategies.

Quality of Engagement: Depth and impact of engagement activities, measured by changes in company policies or practices.

Transparency Reporting: Comprehensiveness and quality of sustainability reporting, including portfolio alignment disclosure, impact metrics, and engagement activities.

Additional Considerations:

Benchmarking: Compare your fund’s KPIs against relevant benchmarks or industry averages to evaluate relative performance.

Customization: Adapt and prioritize KPIs based on your fund’s specific objectives, investment strategy, and target audience.

Data Availability: Ensure accessibility and reliability of data needed to track and report on chosen KPIs.

By monitoring these KPIs, Net-Zero Funds can demonstrate their commitment to achieving environmental impact alongside financial returns, attracting investors seeking alignment with both values. Remember, this list is not exhaustive, and specific KPIs should be tailored to your unique fund and its goals.

Beyond Hype: Evaluating Impact and Performance

While the potential of Net-Zero Funds is undeniable, careful evaluation is crucial. Not all funds labeled “Net-Zero” may have the same commitment or impact. Investors need to scrutinize their underlying holdings, methodologies, and transparency to ensure they align with their values and climate goals.

Challenges and Opportunities:

The path to achieving net-zero emissions is complex, and Net-Zero Funds face challenges. Defining and measuring “net-zero” across diverse sectors remains a work in progress. Additionally, greenwashing concerns exist, necessitating robust regulatory frameworks and transparency measures.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Investment Horizon:

Despite challenges, the future of Net-Zero Funds is promising. Continuous innovation in sustainability solutions, coupled with stricter regulations and investor scrutiny, will lead to more impactful and transparent offerings. Ultimately, Net-Zero Funds have the potential to be a key driver of the transition to a sustainable future, offering investors and businesses alike a powerful tool for positive change.

https://www.exaputra.com/2024/02/net-zero-funds-for-sustainability.html

Related Topics:Funds net-zero Sustainability

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Renewable Energy

ACORE Applauds Maryland Gov. Moore’s New Executive Order on Energy Affordability and Reliability

Published

17 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Alice Rush

ACORE Applauds Maryland Gov. Moore’s New Executive Order on Energy Affordability and Reliability

December 19, 2025

ACORE Applauds Maryland Gov. Moore’s New Executive Order on Energy Affordability and Reliability

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 19, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) issued the following statement from ACORE President and CEO Ray Long in response to Governor Wes Moore’s announcement of new initiatives to build an affordable and reliable energy future for Maryland.

“ACORE applauds Gov. Wes Moore for setting forth a new series of energy initiatives that seek to stabilize energy bills while ensuring grid reliability and efficiency for Marylanders. In particular, ACORE commends key provisions in the order to increase the deployment of advanced transmission technologies; streamline the siting and permitting of high-voltage transmission, energy storage, and other infrastructure; advance wholesale market reforms; and more. As the country enters a new era of electricity demand, initiatives like Gov. Moore’s will facilitate significant progress toward building a modern and reliable grid needed to maintain economic competitiveness and keep the lights on,” said ACORE President and CEO Ray Long.

###

ABOUT ACORE

For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy.

For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.

Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
communications@acore.org

The post ACORE Applauds Maryland Gov. Moore’s New Executive Order on Energy Affordability and Reliability appeared first on ACORE.

https://acore.org/news/acore-statement-on-gov-wes-moores-new-energy-executive-order/

Renewable Energy

Meat–It’s What’s for Dinner, if You Don’t Care about the Animals or the Planet

Published

19 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Alice Rush

We often hear meat-eaters say things like, “If beef isn’t good, why do the manufacturers of plant-based burgers try so hard to make their burgers taste like real meat?”

There is no doubt that cow and pig meat tastes and smells great; every vegan on Earth will tell you that.

The problem lies elsewhere, in a) the environmental impact of clearing the rainforests to make room for more cows, and b) the cruelty inherent in factory farming and the slaughtering of the animals.

Meat–It’s What’s for Dinner, if You Don’t Care about the Animals or the Planet

Renewable Energy

FAQs: Your Most Common Commercial Solar Questions Answered

Published

1 day ago

December 19, 2025

Alice Rush

Currently, if you’re exploring solar energy for your business, you’re likely drowning in questions about solar panel installation costs, potential savings, government rebates, installation requirements, long-term value, and more.

At Cyanergy, we work with thousands of Australian businesses, ranging from small, family-run citrus farms to large industrial manufacturing facilities, that want cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable energy but aren’t sure where to begin.

Don’t worry!

To help you out, we’ve created the ultimate Commercial Solar FAQ guide, featuring straightforward answers drawn from Cyanergy’s extensive experience and expertise.

We’ve also added helpful sections that explain what commercial solar installation actually is, why it matters, its key benefits, and a complete walkthrough of the installation process so you understand the entire journey from start to finish.

So, let’s see how this Cyanergy guide answers the most common commercial solar FAQs, explaining them in simple, practical terms!

In this blog post:

What Is Commercial Solar Installation?

Commercial solar installation refers to the design, engineering, and installation of solar power systems specifically tailored for businesses or commercial properties.

In Australia, large offices, manufacturing facilities, or retail buildings are equipped with photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate clean, renewable electricity.

By adopting solar energy, businesses can reduce their utility costs, lower their carbon footprint, and enhance long-term energy reliability. However, the process is complicated and requires professional installation to ensure efficiency and obtain necessary regulatory approvals.

The commercial solar PV systems are best as they:

Have higher power demands.
Use more advanced engineering.
Can range from 10 kW to multi-megawatt systems.
Often involves roof, ground, or carport mounting.
Require strategic planning around operating hours and energy patterns.

Cyanergy’s Commercial Solar Power Solutions

Switching to solar isn’t just an upgrade for Australians, it’s a strategic investment that transforms how your business powers its future.

At Cyanergy, our commercial solar installations go far beyond placing panels on a roof. We deliver a complete, long-term energy solution designed to slash your operating costs and maximise energy efficiency for decades.

Our comprehensive service includes:

Full energy analysis
Tailored system design
Engineering approvals
High-efficiency Tier-1 solar panels
Premium, reliable inverters
Installation by certified electricians
Ongoing monitoring & maintenance for peak performance

Key Components of Commercial Solar Panel System

Solar panels (solar PV modules)
Inverters
Roof or ground-mounted racking systems
Electrical wiring and monitoring equipment
Additional Backups (Battery storage, Generators)

Your Answers to the Most Common Commercial Solar Questions| Get the Facts!

Before you go solar, it’s wise to know all the truth without any guesswork.

Why? This clear understanding of the most asked commercial solar FAQs can be the game-changer for your business that
needs to operate sustainably while reducing annual energy costs.

So, here are the 15 key answers every homeowner needs to know before investing in solar panel
technology:

1. Is commercial solar really worth it for my business?

Short answer: Absolutely yes, if you consume power.

Long answer: Undoubtedly, Commercial solar energy has become one of the smartest financial decisions
an Australian business owner can make.

At Cyanergy, we consistently see commercial clients slash their electricity bills by 40-80%, depending on system
size, energy usage patterns, and solar exposure. With power prices rising year after year, solar acts as a financial
shield.

Let’s see why it’s worth it:

Lower operational expenses, so the power bills drop dramatically
Offering fast ROI (many Cyanergy clients see payback in 2 to 4 years)
Government
rebates reduce the upfront cost.
Protection against energy price volatility
Increased property value and aesthetics
Boosted sustainability credentials, grabbing the attention of eco-conscious buyers.

Remember! Solar isn’t just a cost; it’s an investment that pays you back in the long run.

2. How much does a commercial solar system cost?

The cost depends on the system, design, and equipment quality. At Cyanergy, systems are tailored based on estimates
from the site audit and other criteria. It’s not “one-size-fits-all”.

Typical price ranges in general we see are:

30 kW commercial system: $25,000 – $40,000
50 kW sized system: $45,000 – $70,000
100 kW system: $90,000 – $150,000
200–500 kW systems: highly customised, vary depending on installation complexity and many other
factors.

Cyanergy installs Tier-1 solar panels and
uses premium inverters or high-efficiency
alternatives. However, you can always customise them to suit your preferences and goals.

Cyanergy’s every solar quote includes:

Full energy assessment

Custom ROI modelling

Design, engineering & installation

Government rebate calculation

Monitoring setup

Industry-leading warranties

3. What rebates or incentives are available for commercial solar?

Businesses and any C&I
properties in Australia can take advantage of generous solar financial incentives that began on October 1,
2025.

Besides that, at Cyanergy, we assist our customers with all major schemes, including:

STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates)

This rebate applies to systems up to 100 kW. The discount often saves commercial clients $10,000 to $40,000 off the
solar installation price.

LGCs (Large-scale Generation Certificates)

LGCs apply only to systems above 100 kW. These provide ongoing financial returns for the clean electricity you
generate.

State Grants & Industry Programs

Depending on your industry and location, extra funding and
other incentives may be available. Cyanergy’s team stays updated to ensure you never miss a rebate you’re
eligible for.

We handle all the paperwork, from start to finish, so you get the maximum savings with zero hassle.

4. How long is the payback period?

The typical payback period for Cyanergy commercial clients is 2–5 years. However, it depends on:

Energy consumption pattern
Electricity rates
System size
Solar design & orientation
Your operating hours
Shading & roof structure

Businesses with high daytime usage, for example, manufacturing
facilities, warehouses, retail, aged care, schools, etc, often recover their investment even faster.

And the best part? After payback, your system produces free power for 20+ years, which is a substantial competitive
advantage.

5. Can my roof support commercial solar panels?

In Australia, rooftop solar is a very common sight. Most commercial and residential buildings already have solar systems installed, and the number continues to grow rapidly each year.

In many cases, roofs can support solar panels, but an assessment is always essential for commercial setups.

What to look for? Here’s your checklist:

Roof age and condition
Structural integrity
Roofing material type
Weight load capability
Angle, orientation, and shading
Complexity for installation and maintenance

However, if your roof isn’t suitable for mounting solar panels, there are alternatives, such as ground-mounted solar, solar carports, and tilt-frame designs for flat roofs.

You can also use solar paints or window facades to generate solar power.

6. What’s the lifespan of a commercial solar system?

A high-quality commercial solar panel system installed by accredited professionals can last for 25 to 30 years or more.

Cyanergy uses equipment from reputable manufacturers with bankable warranties. We design systems to last well beyond the payback period, ensuring strong long-term ROI

7. Do commercial solar panels require regular maintenance?

Even though solar is low-maintenance, it is not maintenance-free. To make your system function efficiently, you might need to

Perform an Annual inspection.
Cleaning every 6–12 months, depending on dust and debris.
Monitoring system performance through the provided platform.

Remember, this r outine maintenance helps prevent downtime, keeps panels efficient, protects your warranty, and lets you catch issues earlier.

8. Will solar affect my business operations during installation?

Based on our previous installation experience, disruptions are minimal or nonexistent in most cases. The reason is that Cyanergy schedules installations:

Outside peak business hours whenever possible.
For larger systems, we install the panels in stages.
With safety barriers that allow your operations to continue safely and smoothly.

Most commercial clients continue business as usual. We always keep communication clear so you know what’s happening.

9. What brands does Cyanergy use? Are they reliable?

Cyanergy only works with Tier-1 solar panel manufacturers and top-performing inverter brands that are trusted globally.

We choose equipment based on performance, warranty, availability, and your budget. Reliability and lifespan are our top priorities.

Our most used solar panels and inverters are:

Solar Panels

Jinko
Trina
Canadian Solar
REC
Longi

Inverters

Fronius
SMA
Sungrow
Huawei

10. How much energy will my business actually save?

After installing a solar panel, actual savings can range from 40 to 80% on electricity bills. However, the exact amount depends on:

When your business consumes power
Solar system size
Local weather conditions
Electricity tariffs
Whether battery storage is added for nighttime use

11. What if my energy usage increases in the future?

Expanding a system is not a problem for Cyanergy. The reason is that we always design systems with scalability in mind. We believe that as your businesses grow, your solar system should grow with you!

However, for the expansion, the options include extra roof space for the future, inverter oversizing, Upgradable circuit capacity, and an integrated battery-ready design.

12. Can I add batteries to a commercial solar system?

Yes, and it’s becoming increasingly popular not only in Australia but also worldwide.

Commercial batteries help to reduce peak demand charges, store excess solar for nighttime usage, improve power quality and provide backup protection during grid outages.

Cyanergy supplies commercial-grade battery solutions for business sizes ranging from small offices to large industrial facilities.

13. What if my business moves? Can I take the solar system with me?

Even though the answer is technically yes, practically, it depends!

Removing and reinstalling a large commercial solar system can be costly in most cases. Therefore, many businesses choose to leave the system and increase the property’s value or install a new, tailored system at the new site.

If you are still perplexed about what to do, Cyanergy helps you evaluate the ROI of both options before making a decision.

14. What warranties does Cyanergy offer?

At Cyanergy, we provide comprehensive warranty coverage on our solar panel system:

25–30 year panel performance warranty
10–25 year inverter warranty
10–15 year product warranty on panels
10+ year workmanship warranty
Full after-sales support

However, we also offer attractive warranties on heat pumps, air conditioners and other energy-efficiency upgrades throughout Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

So you can contact us for reliable products and outstanding services!

15. Why choose Cyanergy for commercial solar?

Because we don’t just “install” solar, we build long-term renewable energy solutions.

What sets us apart? Let’s see:

Proven commercial expertise

Cyanergy has completed thousands of installations across small businesses, schools, warehouses, factories, councils, and national chains.

End-to-end service

We handle everything:

Energy assessment
System design
Approvals and paperwork
Engineering
Installation
Monitoring setup
Maintenance

Premium equipment only

At Cyanergy, there is no cutting corners, no cheap or unreliable products.

Transparent ROI modelling

Our previous reports show actual savings, not inflated marketing numbers.

Exceptional after-sales support

From the first consultation to post-installation monitoring, we stay with you every step of the way.

Have A Project In Mind? Let’s Talk Solar!

Closing Remarks: Ready to Switch with Cyanergy’s Commercial Solar Solutions?

Well, if you’re running a business in
Australia, chances are the answer is yes.

Whether you’re considering a 30 kW rooftop system or a multi-megawatt commercial solar farm, Cyanergy provides the
expertise, high-quality products, and customer support that you need to transition to clean, cost-effective energy
with confidence.

Also, if you have any questions that you’d like to add to the list, contact us today and talk with our solar expert team. We’re here to help you
make the switch!