Solar Panels For Businesses
Discover the benefits of harnessing commercial solar energy. Search and compare business solar panel providers with SpotDif.
The ultimate guide to commercial solar panels
In today's rapidly evolving energy landscape, sustainability and cost-efficiency are paramount. For businesses worldwide, this has led to a significant pivot towards renewable energy sources, with solar panels emerging as a frontrunner. This shift isn't just about being environmentally conscious; it's also about reaping tangible business benefits that solar energy brings to the table.
Wondering where to start in making the switch to solar? The SpotDif commercial solar guide is here to walk you through your options. From the best solar panel types for commercial spaces to government grants, we’ll provide you with all you need to know.
Once you have the information, you can use the commercial solar panel comparison tool to find the best commercial solar panel provider for your business.
Which solar products are you interested in?
If you're not sure, don't worry, your provider will be able to guide you through this decision.
How do business solar panels differ from residential ones?
Business solar panels and residential solar panels both harness the sun's energy, but they have some key differences. We suggest familiarising yourself with these differences so you can ensure your business can take on a commercial solar panel system.
Size
Firstly, business solar panels are generally larger and more powerful. They need to generate more energy to meet the demands of larger buildings and more intensive energy use. This often means covering more roof space or even using ground-mounted systems.
Complexity
Secondly, commercial solar systems are usually more complex, requiring more detailed planning and coordination. They often include solar battery storage to ensure a steady energy supply. This can be particularly useful for businesses, providing reliable energy even during peak usage times.
Grants and financial support options
Financially, businesses can take advantage of various incentives and tax breaks designed specifically for commercial solar installations. Exploring these options can help you maximise your investment and reduce costs. We’ll take a closer look at government grants and other support options shortly.
Maintenance needs
Maintenance is also particularly important for business solar panels. While residential systems need regular checks, it’s worth noting that commercial systems might require more frequent and detailed maintenance to ensure they run efficiently and meet your energy needs.
Which business types can benefit most from commercial solar panels?
Many business types can benefit from commercial solar panels — particularly those with high energy needs. We recommend checking out the table below for inspiration on sectors that may benefit most from harnessing solar.
Manufacturing facilities
Manufacturing facilities often have significant power requirements and installing solar panels can lead to substantial cost savings.
Retail businesses
With large rooftops and extensive operating hours, shopping centres also see benefits. Solar panels can greatly reduce electricity bills.
Offices
Offices and corporate buildings are another good fit. Solar energy can power lighting, heating, and cooling systems efficiently.
Education centres
Schools and universities can also gain from going solar. They can use solar energy to power classrooms, laboratories, and administrative offices.
Warehouses
Expansive roof spaces mean that warehouses and distribution centres are ideal for solar panel installation. It can lower operating costs and improve sustainability.
Why should your business harness solar energy?
As you can see, commercial solar energy can be a great investment for an array of business types. No matter what industry you’re in, you can use the following points to help you decide if commercial solar panels are a good fit for your company.
Energy independence
With solar panels, businesses can reduce their dependence on external energy providers. As well as shielding your company from volatile energy prices, this can help ensure a consistent energy supply.
Financial benefits
When installing solar panels, your finances will thank you, too. After the initial investment and setup, the sun’s energy costs nothing to harness and will significantly reduce your business' utility bills in the long run.
A sustainable investment
Solar panels have a long lifespan, often exceeding 25 years, ensuring businesses reap the benefits for an extended period. They’re also low maintenance — once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance. Apart from occasional cleaning and routine inspections, there are no recurring costs or efforts.
A lower carbon footprint
Opting for commercial solar panels is a responsible step in protecting the environment — something that affects us all. Using solar energy instead of fossil fuels significantly reduces your carbon footprint. Unlike conventional power generation, solar panels don’t emit greenhouse gases, playing a crucial role in combating the impacts of climate change.
Switching to solar power also supports biodiversity and ecosystems — the extraction and consumption of non-renewable resources, like gas and oil, causes a lot of damage to habitats and disruption to wildlife.
Improved sustainability and corporate responsibility
Transitioning to commercial solar energy positions your business as a forward-thinking leader. In an era where sustainability is vital, going solar showcases your commitment to environmental stewardship. You're not just saying you care about the future; you're actively investing in it.
What are the different types of solar panels?
When it comes to powering your business with the sun, knowing your options is key so we suggest doing a bit of research before making any decisions. Solar panels aren't one-size-fits-all — each type has its perks, so your choice will depend on your business’s specific needs, space, and budget. Remember, investing in solar is not just about immediate savings — it’s planning for a sustainable, self-sufficient future, too.
Let’s break down the solar panel types you might consider.
Monocrystalline panels
These are the top solar panel performers in terms of efficiency and longevity. They're made from a single crystal structure, which lets them produce more electricity per square metre, making them perfect if space is at a premium. They do come with a higher price tag, but they're a smart investment if you're thinking long-term.
Best for:
Office buildings and commercial spaces with limited roof space.
Polycrystalline panels
These panels are a bit less efficient than their monocrystalline counterparts, but they're also more budget-friendly. They're made by melting multiple silicon crystals together, which is less wasteful in production, so they have a smaller carbon footprint.
Best for:
We recommend polycrystalline solar panels for warehouses and industrial buildings where space is not as limited.
Thin-film solar panels
A lightweight choice — thin-film solar panels are more flexible and less expensive to produce than other forms. They work well in lower light and are less affected by high temperatures, though they require more space. If you've got a room, they might be the best choice for your premises.
Best for:
In our experience, these solar panels are most suitable for large commercial buildings and factories with extensive roof space.
Solar tiles
A more recent addition to the solar panel scene, solar tiles integrate seamlessly into your building's roof, maintaining the original design while harnessing the sun’s power. They can be more expensive and less efficient, but if aesthetics are a priority, they’re worth considering.
Best for:
Commercial properties and retail stores where maintaining building aesthetics is important.
Is switching to solar energy feasible for your business?
Before investing in solar panels for your business, it’s important to make sure it’s a feasible and logical choice for your company. From your office or workplace location to the amount of energy your business uses, there are some essential aspects to consider. We recommend taking careful note of these to ensure you make the right choice for your needs.
1. Begin with a site assessment
Firstly, you need to look at factors like your geographical location. How sunny is your local environment? Is your roof size big enough for solar panels? The angle of your roof also needs to be right.
Businesses located in sun-rich areas will naturally yield higher returns from solar panels but this doesn’t mean those in cooler climates can’t benefit. The best way to establish your business’s eligibility is to arrange a site visit. A solar panel expert will be able to explain how suitable your premises are for solar panel installation.
2. Understand your energy consumption and needs
You’ll also need to examine past utility bills to understand your energy consumption patterns. This will help determine the size and capacity of the required solar system.
3. Find out how much you could save
Solar panel installation involves an upfront cost but you can make big savings in the long run. To work out how much you could save, you need to factor in the installation costs, potential energy savings, tax benefits, and any available grants or incentives to understand the return on investment.
4. Research in line with local regulations
Before arranging solar panel installation, we suggest researching local regulations and building codes related to solar installations. Some regions may have restrictions, while others might offer incentives.
If you’ve decided solar panel installation is a good step for your business, what’s the next step?
Which solar products are you interested in?
If you're not sure, don't worry, your provider will be able to guide you through this decision.
How much are commercial solar panels in the UK?
As with any property improvement or renewable energy installation, the cost of commercial solar panels in the UK varies depending on the size of the system and specific requirements.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Small systems (10kW - 50kW)
These are suitable for small businesses or offices. Prices typically range from £13,000 to £60,000 (excluding VAT). These systems can significantly reduce electricity bills and offer a good return on investment for smaller operations.
Medium systems (60kW - 150kW)
Ideal for medium-sized businesses, these systems cost between £39,000 and £200,000 (plus VAT). They are perfect for companies with moderate energy needs and can provide substantial savings over time.
Large systems (200kW+)
Large businesses, factories, and warehouses may need these systems. Costs can range from anywhere upwards of £250,000. These systems cater to high energy demands and offer excellent long-term savings.
Factors influencing business solar panel costs
You may be wondering why solar panel prices vary so much — let’s break it down.
- Installation complexity: Your facility’s roof type, height, and accessibility can impact installation costs.
- Battery storage: Adding battery storage increases your initial investment but can improve your business’ long-term savings by storing excess energy for use during peak times.
- Government incentives: Grants and incentives, such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), can reduce the overall cost by allowing you to sell excess energy back to the grid.
Break-even time
On average, businesses can expect to break even on their investment in about 5 to 10 years. This depends on:
- Energy consumption: Higher usage means faster savings, reducing the payback period.
- Electricity prices: Rising electricity costs can shorten the payback period as savings from solar become more significant.
- Incentives: Again, government schemes and incentives can accelerate your break-even time, making solar panel investment more attractive.
How to switch to solar: a step-by-step guide for businesses
Switching to solar power can significantly reduce your energy costs and carbon footprint. Making this change can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps simplifies the process. Here’s our friendly, expert guide to help your business make the switch to solar power smoothly and efficiently.
1. Choose the right solar panel provider
First, research and select a provider with experience in commercial solar installations. Look for quality panels, good reviews, and solid warranties. An experienced provider will guide you through the process and answer any questions. Make sure they offer comprehensive services, from initial consultation to after-sales support.
2. Compare offers with SpotDif
To make your search easier, compare offers with SpotDif. Our handy solar panel comparison tool helps you find and compare commercial solar providers in the UK. We look at local deals and help you find the best price. This tool saves you time and ensures you get the most competitive offers available, simplifying your decision-making process.
3. Look into customisable solutions
Every business is unique. Once you’ve found a provider, we suggest working with them to design a solar solution tailored to your energy needs and business premises. Custom solutions ensure that your system maximises energy production and efficiency. Discuss options like battery storage or specific panel placements to suit your operations.
4. Secure financing
Before making any purchases, we suggest exploring various financing options. From outright purchases to solar leases or power purchase agreements, choose what aligns with your financial strategy. Many businesses find leasing or financing options attractive as they often require little to no upfront investment.
It’s also helpful to research government incentives or grants to further reduce costs — read on for our take on what’s available.
5. Arrange installation and setup
Collaborate with your solar panel provider for a smooth installation process — by working together, you can reduce the risk of disruption to your business operations during this phase. A good provider will schedule installations at convenient times and keep you informed throughout the process. They’ll also handle all necessary permits and inspections.
6. Monitor and maintain your solar panels
In our experience, it’s wise to use monitoring systems to track your energy production and consumption. Regularly inspect the panels and associated systems to ensure optimal performance. Monitoring helps you catch any issues early and maintain efficiency.
We suggest scheduling periodic maintenance with your provider to keep your system in top shape.
Which solar products are you interested in?
If you're not sure, don't worry, your provider will be able to guide you through this decision.
Government support and business grants for solar panels
It’s clear that switching to solar power can be a significant investment, but the UK government offers various financial incentives and support options to make this transition more affordable for your business. These initiatives aim to promote renewable energy use, reduce carbon emissions, and help businesses save on energy costs.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a valuable incentive for businesses with solar panels. With SEG, you can sell the excess electricity your solar panels generate back to the national grid. Energy suppliers offer an export tariff, allowing you to earn money from the surplus energy your system produces. Rates vary, typically ranging from 1p to 20p per kWh, depending on the supplier.
Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF)
Another helpful option to explore is the Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF). This provides grants to businesses for energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects.
Under the IETF, you may be eligible for a grant to help cover a portion of the costs associated with feasibility studies, engineering, and implementation for your solar panels.
Zero VAT on solar panels
The UK government has applied a 0% VAT rate on solar panels and other renewable energy technologies. This reduction significantly lowers the upfront cost of purchasing and installing solar panels, making it a more attractive investment for your business.
Salix Finance
Public sector organisations, such as schools and local authorities, can benefit from interest-free loans through Salix Finance. This government-funded scheme supports the installation of energy-efficient technologies, including solar panels. Spreading the cost over several years helps you manage your finances more effectively while benefiting from reduced energy bills.
Solar energy and the future business landscape
With advancements in solar technology, the efficiency of solar panels is continually improving, and costs are decreasing. Additionally, as global conversations intensify around climate change, there's a growing emphasis on sustainable business practices.
Businesses adopting solar energy are not only preparing for this future landscape but are also positioning themselves as leaders in innovation and sustainability. Moreover, as consumers become more environmentally conscious, they're actively choosing to support businesses that reflect their values.
So, are you ready to invest in solar power?
Compare solar panels with SpotDif
With a plethora of benefits on offer, it’s easy to see why so many businesses are making the switch to solar power. However, it’s important to find the right solar panel options from a trusted supplier. If you’re unsure where to start, the team at SpotDif is here to help.
Using SpotDif, you can compare different types of solar panels and providers. We’ll help you save time and money by avoiding the hassle of contacting multiple suppliers and negotiating prices yourself.
Whether you need high-efficiency monocrystalline panels or more budget-friendly polycrystalline options, we’ve got you covered. Our commercial solar panel comparison tool ensures you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision.
Last updated on 22 Jul 2024