Solar for your business
Commercial Solar Panels for Businesses: Reduce Energy Costs & Boost Sustainability
A real story with real impact
When a family-run regional food service business like Accent Fresh Ltd chooses solar energy. The benefits of solar for business go far beyond just saving money. Here’s how their investment in sustainability is powering their journey towards Net Zero:
The Challenge
Facing rising energy costs and aiming to reduce carbon emissions, Accent Fresh knew it was time for a smarter, greener solution.
The Solution
In 2016, they started with a 50 kW solar PV system, which paid for itself in just five years. After extending their building in 2019, they maximised roof space by adding more panels, creating a 110 kW solar installation complete with inverters. Now, every inch of roof space is dedicated to harnessing the power of the sun!
The Results
- Estimated payback: Just 3.5 years (factoring in tax savings and interest).
- Annual savings: £35,000 – £40,000.
- Carbon reduction: Saving ~50 tonnes of CO₂ annually from Scope 2 GHG emissions.
Looking Ahead
For Accent Fresh, going solar wasn’t just a business decision—it’s a commitment to sustainability. This investment is helping them achieve financial goals while making a meaningful impact on the environment.
Cost savings and sustainability with solar panel solutions
Solar panels are ideal for any business premises, allowing your business to reduce its energy costs by generating clean energy on-site. A Solar Panel installation will improve your business margins as well as reducing your environmental impact.
Businesses can further benefit from the ability to promote their commitment to sustainability and demonstrate their green credentials to their customers and clients.
With energy prices set to rise again and the focus on low carbon technology, can your business afford not to invest in solar panels?
How will we support your business?
How Will Solar Affect My Energy Bills?
Solar significantly reduces energy costs by generating your own electricity, cutting reliance on the grid, and protecting against rising energy prices.
- Lower Energy Bills – Use free solar power instead of buying expensive grid electricity.
- Reduced Grid Dependence – Less exposure to volatile energy prices.
- Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) – Earn money for exporting excess energy.
FACT: Businesses with solar experience long-term energy cost stability, providing a competitive advantage.
Can I Incorporate Solar into My Annual Investment Allowance?
Yes! Solar panel installations qualify for the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA), meaning businesses can deduct the full cost of the system from their taxable profits in the year of purchase.
- Maximises tax relief – Reduces upfront costs.
- Improves cash flow – Makes solar an even better investment.
- Eligibility varies – Speak with an accountant to confirm your tax benefits.
FACT: Many businesses use AIA to significantly lower the net cost of their solar installation.
What is the Typical Return on Investment (ROI) for Commercial Solar?
Commercial solar offers strong financial returns, with:
- ROI ranging from 20% to 35% per year.
- Payback periods of 2.5 to 7 years.
- Immediate savings on electricity bills.
Factors Affecting ROI:
- Your energy usage and how much solar you can self-consume.
- Electricity rates and how much you save on grid energy.
- Incentives like grants and tax relief.
FACT: Businesses typically experience 20+ years of free electricity once the system pays for itself.
I Rent My Property – Can I Still Get Solar?
Yes, you can install solar panels on a rented commercial property with your landlord’s approval. However, key factors to consider include:
- Lease Length – Solar is a long-term investment, so having a lease agreement that aligns with the system’s lifespan (typically 25+ years) is important.
- Funding Options – A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or landlord-funded system could make installation easier and more cost-effective.
- Permissions & Contracts – Ensure agreements are in place between you and your landlord regarding system ownership, maintenance, and energy benefits.
FACT: Many businesses benefit from PPAs, allowing them to access cheaper solar energy without the upfront costs.
What Financing Options Are Available? Do You Offer Power Purchase Agreements?
Yes! We offer various financing options to make commercial solar accessible:
- Outright Purchase – Own your system from day one and benefit from full savings and incentives.
- Hire Purchase Agreements – Pay for your system in instalments over a fixed period while benefiting from reduced energy costs.
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) – A no upfront cost option where you pay only for the energy generatedby the solar system, rather than the system itself. This allows businesses to lower their energy expenses without any capital investment.
FACT: PPAs are ideal for businesses that want to cut costs but lack the budget for an outright solar purchase.
My Incoming Electricity Supply is 100m Away from My Roof – Is Solar Still Possible?
Yes, solar is still an option! However, additional cabling and infrastructure will be required to connect the system to your electricity supply. The feasibility and cost will depend on:
- Cable Routing – How and where the cables will be installed.
- Voltage Drop – Ensuring energy loss is minimised over long distances.
- Installation Requirements – Any structural adjustments needed for a safe and efficient connection.
A site survey will assess these factors to determine the best approach.
FACT: We have successfully installed solar systems for businesses with distant power supplies by implementing the right cabling solutions.
Am I Entitled to Any Grants?
Yes, UK businesses may be eligible for grants and incentives to support solar panel installations. Availability varies by region, but common sources include:
- Government Green Energy Grants – Offered through various local and national schemes.
- Local Council Funding – Some councils provide renewable energy grants for businesses.|
- Carbon Reduction Schemes – Incentives for reducing CO₂ emissions.
FACT: Checking your local council’s website or contacting them directly is the best way to explore current grant opportunities.
My Roof is Asbestos – Do I Need to Replace It Before Installing Solar?
In most cases, an asbestos roof must be replaced or professionally assessed before solar installation due to:
- Health & Safety Risks – Drilling into asbestos poses hazards.
- Structural Concerns – Asbestos roofs may not safely support solar panels.
- Legal Compliance – Strict regulations govern asbestos handling.
Overclad Systems as an Alternative:
- A lightweight metal roof is installed over the asbestos to provide a stable structure.
- Avoids costly asbestos removal while making the roof solar-compatible.
- Improves roof durability and extends lifespan.
FACT: We assess each roof individually to provide the safest and most cost-effective solar solution.
Can Solar Be Installed on Flat or Metal Roofs?
Yes! Solar can be installed on both flat and metal roofs using the right mounting systems:
- Flat Roofs – Use ballasted or mechanically fixed frames to achieve the optimum panel angle.
- Metal Roofs – Use clamp-on or rail-mounted systems that secure panels without penetrating the roof.
FACT: The right mounting system ensures solar panels are securely installed, regardless of roof type.
What Maintenance is Required? Do Solar Panels Need Regular Servicing?
Commercial solar panels require minimal maintenance due to their durable design. Most systems feature:
- Hydrophobic glass coatings that reduce dirt build-up.
- Rain-assisted self-cleaning to maintain efficiency.
- Remote monitoring to detect performance issues.
In dusty or polluted environments, occasional manual cleaning may be beneficial.
FACT: Commercial solar panels can operate efficiently for decades with minimal servicing.
How does my business benefit from solar?
Why choose Greenscape as your installer?
Greenscape Energy’s commercial solar team design each system individually to achieve your company’s goals and needs, whether it is just reducing your energy spend, reducing your carbon footprint or providing a visible display of your commitment to tackling climate change.
Our team can also advise on extensions to your existing solar PV array without affecting any subsidies you may already be receiving.
Learn how much you could save with solar panels
Save 66% on your electricity bill with solar panels and battery storage. Greenscape energy can help you get started today.