Commercial Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

Unlock the benefits of solar energy for your business with zero upfront costs, guaranteed savings, and protection from volatile energy prices.

Perfect for high energy usage businesses that want to reserve capital for other core operations but still need to progress towards ESG targets and reduce exposure to high energy costs and energy price volatility.

Robert Moss

CEO - Moss Electrical

4th March 2024
We couldn’t be happier with the process and are now saving £300,000 per year on our electricity costs.

‍There was such little disruption that we were quite frankly surprised when the team turned around and said that they were all done.
4.2 YRS
Avg return on investment*

What is a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)?

A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) allows your business to harness clean, renewable solar energy without the financial burden of upfront installation costs.

Here is how it works:

Installation

We install solar panels and optional energy storage systems on your premises, at no cost to you.

Energy supply

Instead of or alongside paying for electricity from the grid, you pay for the solar energy you use, at a fixed rate.

Price stability

The energy price is locked in, only adjusting annually with the Retail Price Index (RPI). No exposure to the fluctuating UK energy market.

Maintenance included

We handle all maintenance and monitoring for 25 years, ensuring optimal performance at no risk to you.

Why choose a PPA for your business?

A PPA offers your business a hassle-free, cost-effective way to adopt solar energy with key benefits.

Your business can cut its electricity bills by up to 30% with zero upfront investment. Minimising any short term opportunity cost that may be incurred from the outlay of large amounts of capital if the system were bought outright.

Huge savings on high energy costs

Energy costs are set to rise by 20-30% by 2030. Hedging against this near certainty will lead to large cost deductions.

Increasing your energy security

2021 and 2022 showed how fragile the energy landscape is. Solar is a great hedge against volatility in energy markets.

£0 upfront cost reduces opportunity cost

Continue to invest in other areas of your business with no need to outlay significant capital for the installation of your system.

Maintenance and warranties covered

Under a PPA, your system is maintained, cleaned and operated with no cost or time investment to you.

Protect your business against the unpredictability of UK energy prices

Since 2000, UK energy prices have been on a volatile upward trend, putting businesses at risk of sudden cost increases.

With a PPA, you can secure stable, predictable energy costs for up to 25 years. Our PPAs are immune to market fluctuations, adjusting only in line with the RPI each year.

Source: Office for National Statistics and YCharts.com

In today’s unpredictable UK energy market, businesses are grappling with increasing uncertainty as electricity prices soar and fluctuate dramatically.

With global events, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions all driving sharp spikes in energy costs, it’s never been more challenging to maintain control over your business’s energy budget. But there is a solution: Sustain Commercial Solar’s Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

With a PPA, your business can save up to 30% on energy costs with £0 upfront investment. That’s right—at no initial cost to you, Sustain Commercial Solar will install, maintain, and manage your solar energy system. You simply purchase the electricity generated by the system at a significantly reduced rate, protecting your business from volatile grid prices while cutting your overheads.

This is a game-changer for businesses that want the benefits of solar without the capital expenditure. By locking in lower energy rates, you gain financial stability and can forecast future costs with confidence, even in a fluctuating market. With potential savings of up to 30%, it’s a smart and straightforward way to lower operational costs while boosting sustainability.

By entering into a PPA, your business can reduce grid reliance by up to 70%, lower your energy costs by up to 30%, and enjoy £0 upfront costs. It allows you to future-proof against rising energy prices and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and green energy.

Moreover, opting for a PPA aligns your business with the UK’s move towards renewable energy, keeping you in step with future regulations and protecting you from potential carbon taxes. It also enhances your appeal to customers and partners who value environmental responsibility, giving your brand a competitive edge.

Now is the perfect time to explore how a Sustain Commercial Solar PPA can deliver immediate savings and long-term security for your business. Take advantage of government incentives, shield yourself from future energy price hikes, and join the renewable revolution—all with zero upfront costs.

Make an enquiry today and discover how Sustain Commercial Solar can help you cut energy costs and secure your business's future with a tailored Power Purchase Agreement.

Which businesses benefit the most from power purchase agreements?

Businesses with specific characteristics have the most to gain from a commercial solar installation.

The greater your energy usage and costs, typically, the more you will benefit from a commercial solar installation.

Additionally, your business’s specific ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals play a significant role in this decision.

High energy consumption
Businesses with significant energy demands, such as manufacturing plants, data centers, or large office buildings, stand to benefit greatly from commercial solar installations under Power Purchase Agreements.

By locking in a cheaper energy price, they can substantially reduce their energy expenses and increase their resilience against fluctuating energy prices.
Ask us how we can help
Large roof or land space
Companies with ample unused roof space or vacant land can maximise the potential of these areas by installing solar panels.

This is particularly advantageous for warehouses, distribution centers, and agricultural businesses that might have extensive unshaded areas suitable for solar installations.
Ask us how we can help
Energy price volatility concerns
Businesses that are sensitive to fluctuations in energy prices, particularly in industries with tight profit margins, can benefit from PPAs.

By securing a fixed-rate energy supply with adjustments only linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI), PPAs provide price stability. This predictability allows businesses to budget more effectively and safeguard themselves from unexpected price hikes.
Ask us how we can help
High public visibility
Businesses that have a high profile or rely heavily on their brand image, such as retail chains, hotels, and corporations, can leverage commercial solar installations at no upfront cost to showcase their commitment to renewable energy and sustainability.

Thereby, enhancing their reputation and appeal to a broader customer base.
Ask us how we can help
Sustainability goals
For businesses prioritising sustainability and reducing their carbon footprint, a PPA provides a direct pathway to cleaner energy.

By switching to solar power without upfront costs, companies can lower their environmental impact while meeting corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals. This is increasingly important for businesses in sectors where green credentials are valued by consumers and stakeholders alike.
Ask us how we can help
Limited access to capital
Businesses that want to adopt renewable energy but lack the capital for upfront investments can benefit immensely from a PPA.

With no initial costs and the long-term financial benefits of lower energy bills, a PPA enables companies to transition to solar energy without impacting their cash flow.
Ask us how we can help

ThermoFisher cut energy costs by 15% without any upfront or ongoing costs

Custodian Capital are one of our repeat clients and partners. By installing an 830 kW solar system on one of their properties, they were able to pass on a 15% reduction in energy costs to ThermoFisher.

This is under a common arrangement called a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) whereby an asset manager will fund and maintain an installation under an agreement to sell the energy at a reduced rate to the property user.

£4.7m lifetime ROI
Over the system's 25 year lifetime, it will yield over £4.7m in savings for Custodian Capital.
Net zero
The installation is a significant step for Custodian Capital & ThermoFisher on their way to meet Net Zero targets.
Case study header
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros.
[Client name]
[Sector]
Est. ROI
4 years
Installation size
12.4 MW
Annual savings
£210,251
Self sufficiency
-24%
Case study header
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros.
[Client name]
[Sector]
Est. ROI
4 years
Installation size
12.4 MW
Annual savings
£210,251
Self sufficiency
-24%
Case study header
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros.
[Client name]
[Sector]
Est. ROI
4 years
Installation size
12.4 MW
Annual savings
£210,251
Grid reliance
-24%
Case study header
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros.
[Client name]
[Sector]
Est. ROI
4 years
Installation size
12.4 MW
Annual savings
£210,251
Grid reliance
-24%
Case study header
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros.
[Client name]
[Sector]
Est. ROI
4 years
Installation size
12.4 MW
Annual savings
£210,251
Grid reliance
-24%
Case study header
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros.
[Client name]
[Sector]
Est. ROI
4 years
Installation size
12.4 MW
Annual savings
£210,251
Grid reliance
-24%
Cutting electricity costs by £448 weekly and CO2 emissions by 26,695 kg annually
Churchill has made impressive strides in sustainability by reducing its CO2 emissions by 26,695 kg annually thanks to its new solar energy system. The project highlights the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy.
Churchill
Carehomes
Est. ROI
4.8
 years
Installation size
111
Lifetime savings
705456
Self sufficiency
37
%
Saving over 100,000 kg of CO2 annually with solar installation
Pearce Recycling's solar installation is a major environmental success, saving over 100,000 kg of CO2 emissions annually. The project not only supports sustainability but also yields substantial financial savings.
Pearce Recycling
Recycling
Est. ROI
5.3
 years
Installation size
500
Lifetime savings
1665000
Self sufficiency
54
%
129 panels installed at Oakland Grange
A rooftop solar PV installation at Oakland Grange, with a capacity of 52.89 kW and 129 panels, generates approximately 46,399 kWh annually, saving an estimated 9,600 kg of CO₂ in the first year. Over 25 years, the system is projected to save £303,647, generate 1,159,975 kWh, and offset 260,983 kg of CO₂, equivalent to planting about 10,439 trees.
Oakland Care
Carehomes
Est. ROI
 years
Installation size
52
Lifetime savings
303647
Self sufficiency
%
Reducing CO2 emissions for a shopping centre by 25,541kg per year
The Southside Shopping Centre project effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 25,541 kg per year. This initiative also generates financial savings of £19,980 annually, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. ​​
Est. ROI
4.9
 years
Installation size
120
Lifetime savings
499500
Self sufficiency
17
%
Combermere Abbey generates enough energy to power 3,500+ homes per year
Combermere Abbey Solar Farm offsets 3,170,944 kg of CO2 each year. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 79 million kg of CO2 reduced. Additionally, the project provides significant financial savings of £1,451,974 annually, totalling £36 million over 25 years, showcasing its considerable environmental and economic benefits. ​​
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
7.8
 years
Installation size
13968
Lifetime savings
36299340
Self sufficiency
100
%
Honnington project generates nearly £30m in energy over 25 years
Honnington stands out with a remarkable annual CO2 reduction of 2,398,310 kg and substantial yearly savings of £1,171,170. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to nearly £30 million in savings, emphasizing its impressive contributions to sustainability and cost-efficiency.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
7
 years
Installation size
11000
Lifetime savings
29279250
Self sufficiency
100
%
ThermoFisher reduce energy costs by 15% via PPA
Custodian Capital, a commercial property asset manager, were able to secure a forecasted £4,792,281 in lifetime savings and reduce the energy costs of their tenant, ThermoFisher, by 15%.
Custodian Capital
Manufacturing
Est. ROI
3.3
 years
Installation size
830
Lifetime savings
4792281
Self sufficiency
34
%
£14m in energy generated over 25 years by Magazine project
Magazine effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 1,063,999 kg per year, while also delivering financial savings of £561,750 annually. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately £14 million in savings, contributing significantly to both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
6.7
 years
Installation size
5000
Lifetime savings
14043750
Self sufficiency
100
%
Reducing energy overhead for Moss Electrical by £168,720 per year
The Moss Electrical Dartford project effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 256,489 kg per year. Additionally, it generates significant financial savings of £168,720 annually, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. ​​
Moss Electrical
Distribution
Est. ROI
5.8
 years
Installation size
1200
Lifetime savings
4218000
Self sufficiency
84
%
1.05 million kg CO2 reduced annually by Lains project
Lains successfully offset 1,053,666 kg of CO2 each year and provides average annual savings of £561,750, making it a noteworthy example of environmental and economic benefits.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
6.7
 years
Installation size
5000
Lifetime savings
14043750
Self sufficiency
100
%
Offsetting 43,468 kg of CO2 annually through solar power
Island Health's commitment to sustainability is evident in its solar power project, which offsets 43,468 kg of CO2 annually. This initiative demonstrates the significant environmental and economic benefits of solar energy.
Island Healthcare
Carehomes
Est. ROI
4.9
 years
Installation size
200
Lifetime savings
725200
Self sufficiency
34
%
Soho Farm reduces 702,644 kg CO2 annually
Soho Farm effectively offsets 702,644 kg of CO2 each year. Additionally, it generates significant financial savings of £343,350 annually, contributing both to environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. ​​
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
6.6
 years
Installation size
3000
Lifetime savings
8583750
Self sufficiency
100
%
Fardanes generates £1,184,400 in energy annually
The Fardanes project offsets 2,462,291 kg of CO2 annually and generates substantial savings of £1,184,400 each year, demonstrating a significant positive impact on both the environment and finances.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
7.6
 years
Installation size
12000
Lifetime savings
29610000
Self sufficiency
100
%
Saving £19,477 annually while reducing CO2 emissions by 30,474 kg
ACI Care has significantly reduced its carbon footprint by installing solar panels, cutting down over 30,000 kg of CO2 emissions each year. This initiative not only promotes sustainability but also brings substantial financial savings of £19,477 annually.
ACI
Carehomes
Est. ROI
5.1
 years
Installation size
140
Lifetime savings
486920
Self sufficiency
38
%
£455,610 in lifetime savings for the largest independent training provider in England
A 79.12 kW rooftop solar system with 172 panels at Baltic Training Services, Darlington, generates 66,713 kWh annually, saving 31,338 kg of CO₂ in the first year. It will provide £18,224.43 in first-year savings and £455,610.75 over 25 years, with a total generation of 1,667,825 kWh.
Baltic Apprenticeships
Education
Est. ROI
 years
Installation size
79
Lifetime savings
455610
Self sufficiency
%
£850k in energy generated yearly at Bay Farm
Bay Farm effectively offsets a substantial 1,750,250 kg of CO2 each year, while also generating average savings of £850,080 annually. This initiative significantly contributes to environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
7.1
 years
Installation size
8000
Lifetime savings
21252000
Self sufficiency
100
%
Hazel Farm generates £472,500 in energy yearly
Hazel Farm offsets 1,089,781 kg of CO2 annually and generates substantial savings of £472,500 each year, demonstrating a significant positive impact on both the environment and finances.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
7.9
 years
Installation size
5000
Lifetime savings
11812500
Self sufficiency
100
%
Achieving substantial CO2 savings of 54,253 kg annually through solar installation
Sheffcare's solar installation is a major step towards sustainability, achieving significant CO2 savings of 54,253 kg annually. The project highlights the dual benefits of environmental conservation and cost reduction.
Sheffcare
Carehomes
Est. ROI
5.3
 years
Installation size
250
Lifetime savings
832500
Self sufficiency
54
%
Menzies's second installation generates just shy of £1m in lifetime savings
With an annual generation capacity of 121,837 kWh, it meets 78,522 kWh of yearly self-consumption needs and exports 43,316 kWh of surplus energy per year.
Menzies
Distribution
Est. ROI
3.2
 years
Installation size
155
Lifetime savings
888636
Self sufficiency
29
%
Cutting 8,030 kg of CO2 emissions annually with solar panels
Clifford Springs' solar panel installation has successfully cut 8,030 kg of CO2 emissions each year. This project showcases the positive impact of renewable energy on both the environment and the organization's finances.
Clifford Springs
Manufacturing
Est. ROI
5.3
 years
Installation size
37
Lifetime savings
124579
Self sufficiency
62
%
Cobbs Cross reduces 35 million kg CO2 and generates £17.5m in energy over 25 years
Cobbs Cross offsets a significant 1,421,371 kg of CO2 each year. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 35 million kg of CO2 reduced. Additionally, the project provides substantial financial savings of £702,975 annually, totaling £17.5 million over 25 years, highlighting its significant environmental and economic benefits.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
6.9
 years
Installation size
6500
Lifetime savings
17574375
Self sufficiency
100
%
Dorset Council generate £341,880 worth of energy per year
Dorset Council effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 477,907 kg per year, while also delivering impressive financial savings of £341,880 annually, contributing significantly to both environmental and economic sustainability. ​​
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
4.6
 years
Installation size
2200
Lifetime savings
8547000
Self sufficiency
30
%
Reducing grid reliance and saving £27,528 annually
Quantrelle has significantly reduced its carbon footprint by installing solar panels, cutting down 43,328 kg of CO2 emissions each year. This project showcases the positive environmental and financial impacts of renewable energy.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
5.2
 years
Installation size
200
Lifetime savings
688200
Self sufficiency
32
%
£2m in lifetime savings for Menzies
A 471kw installation that will reduce Menzies dependence on the grid by over 30%.
Menzies
Distribution
Est. ROI
3.7
 years
Installation size
471
Lifetime savings
2102521
Self sufficiency
33
%
Chapel Farm reduces 1.08 million kg CO2 over 25 years
Despite its smaller scale, the Chapel Farm project achieves a commendable CO2 reduction of 43,348 kg annually. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 1.08 million kg of CO2 reduced, showcasing the potential of even smaller projects.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
5.1
 years
Installation size
200
Lifetime savings
703000
Self sufficiency
60
%
BAT's system yields £6.64m in savings
We had the opportunity to collaborate with CBRE to install at British American Tobacco Southampton to enhance their sustainability efforts through a Solar PV installation.
British American Tobacco
Manufacturing
Est. ROI
3
 years
Installation size
700
Lifetime savings
4704000
Self sufficiency
7
%
Box Road reduces 26 million kg CO2 and generates £14m in energy over 25 years
Box Road is a major contributor to carbon reduction, saving 1,055,012 kg of CO2 per year. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 26 million kg of CO2 reduced. Additionally, the project provides significant financial savings of £561,750 annually, totaling £14 million over 25 years, highlighting its substantial environmental and economic benefits.
Renewable Funder
Est. ROI
6.7
 years
Installation size
5000
Lifetime savings
14043750
Self sufficiency
100
%
ROI in under 3 years for Porsche's 2nd system installation
Porsche's 2nd site installation with us has an ROI of just over 2 years and will reduce their dependency on the grid by 39.9%.
Porsche
Automotive
Est. ROI
2.1
 years
Installation size
230
Lifetime savings
2035247
Self sufficiency
40
%
3.2 year lifetime return on investment for Porsche
Explore how Porsche Centre Norwich achieved a 6.1x ROI with Sustain Commercial Solar, saving £991,363 over the system's lifetime by reducing carbon emissions.
Porsche
Automotive
Est. ROI
4.1
 years
Installation size
174
Lifetime savings
991363
Self sufficiency
55
%

All financial options

Power Purchase Agreements have a multitude of benefits in the right circumstances. However, other financial routes can provide a higher overall return on investment.

CAPEX
Upfront payment
Fastest ROI
Highest lifetime savings
Annual investment allowance tax break
Hire purchase
Leasing options
No upfront cost
Annual bills reduced from day 1
Annual investment allowance tax break
PPA
Power Purchase Agreement
No upfront or maintenance cost
Annual bills reduced from day 1
Minimal logistical involvement

Comparing your three financial routes over 25 years

The chart below shoes a real quote that we recently put together.

You can see that the PPA route is quickest off the mark with its £0 upfront cost - but falls short against HP & CAPEX over the long run.

We will work with you to find the best route forward for your business given your unique circumstances, resources and external opportunities.

We will produce a chart just like this for your business when you enquire with us. Reach out today.

Grants and incentives available in 2024

We regularly update our list of available grants and incentives for national or regional projects. You can view relevant grants and incentives to the right or view our full list below.

Improving farm productivity grant reduces cost of solar and other upgrades by 25%

Available until March 21st 2024.
Currently active
Farming
Up to £100,000 grant

Another item. Another item. Another item. Another item. Another item. Another item. Ano

Available until XX.
No longer active
Farming
Up to £100,000 grant

Improving farm productivity grant reduces cost of solar and other upgrades by 25%

Available until March 21st 2024.
Currently active
Farming
Up to £100,000 grant

Working with Sustain Commercial Solar

Customer first

We focus on having an intimate understanding of our customers energy needs, delivering a solution customised for each customer.

From the initial conversation through to long term operation and maintenance of your project, we ensure your journey is a smooth and positive experience.

Sustainability

We understand that businesses are increasingly focused on sustainability.

That's why we combine our commitment to reducing carbon footprints with our dedication to helping businesses save money.

We provide cutting-edge solar systems designed specifically for UK businesses, enabling them to save money, reduce carbon footprint and enhance ESG credentials.

Innovation

As a young and dynamic industry, solar technology is evolving at breakneck speed.

We're committed to staying ahead of the curve, constantly exploring the latest innovations and advancements to deliver the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for our customers.

This dedication drives us to constantly refine our products, technologies, and installation methods, ensuring our services are always cutting-edge and deliver exceptional value.

Integrity & transparency

We are committed to providing our customers with a positive experience through honest communication, fair pricing, and reliable service.

We believe in providing clear and accurate information throughout every project phase, ensuring transparency and empowering you to make informed decisions.

Partner with us and experience the difference a commitment to these values can make.

Book your free consultation today

We can give you extensive projections on various commercial solar options with some basic usage data and a video call.

Once you have entered your contact information, you'll be redirected to book some time with our team.

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We have made enormous savings on our costs. We now make a 6 figure income on the energy generated by our system.

Robert Moss

Managing Director

Moss Electrical

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Sustain's ongoing support has been amazing. They've delivered on all projects in a timely manner and caused minimal disruption to our tenants.

Javed Sattar

Portfolio Manager

Custodian Capital

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FAQs

We’ve created an extensive library of frequently asked questions from our prospects, customers and general public.

You can view the FAQs specific to this page to the right.

Or view all FAQs on the page linked below.

Question text goes here

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Our team

100+ years combined experience in solar and over 50,000 installations completed.

Our team are ready to assist you in your commercial solar transition.

We’re actively looking for driven self starters to join us on our mission to empower UK businesses with sustainable energy.