Commercial Solar Panel Installation

Learn how businesses throughout the UK are saving hundreds of thousands of pounds on their energy bills with commercial solar systems and how easy it is for you to do the same.

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*

Why businesses throughout the UK are installing solar

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.

Reducing carbon footprint by thousands of kilograms

With Net Zero targets putting many businesses under pressure to reduce their carbon footprint, solar serves as a brilliant vehicle to do so.

Immediate savings potential with PPA

With Power Purchase Agreements (PPA), businesses can reduce costs in their first year with £0 upfront payment.

How much can you save with commercial solar?

The cost of Solar panels has reduced significantly in recent years. The technology has also increased in effectiveness. With panels now set to perform at 95% efficiency for up to 25 years, our prospects are seeing no brainer forecasts on their installation.

4 year average ROI

Based on purchasing solar in full, our average enquiry will breakeven within 4 years.

Reduce reliance on the grid

2021 and 2022 exposed many businesses to their reliance on the grid and vulnerability to price changes.

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
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[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%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
£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
%
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
%
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
%
£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
%
£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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
£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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%
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
%

What type of business benefits the most from commercial solar?

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.

By generating their own power, 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
Ambitious sustainability goals
Organisations aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance their sustainability credentials will find commercial solar installations align perfectly with their environmental objectives.

This not only aids in achieving corporate social responsibility goals but also positions the business favourable in the eyes of eco-conscious consumers.
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 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
Long-term locations
Businesses that own their premises or have long-term leases will see the most financial benefit from solar installations due to the upfront investment required.

The longer a business can utilise the installation, the greater the savings and the return on investment.
Ask us how we can help
High daytime energy usage
Enterprises that operate primarily during daylight hours, such as retail stores, schools, and offices, can directly utilise the solar power generated, leading to immediate energy cost savings.

The usage of these businesses will align with the solar power generation curve, meaning there may also be little need for a battery storage system.
Ask us how we can help
Predictable energy usage
Businesses that have a predictable and consistent energy usage pattern, such as data centres or production facilities operating around the clock, can greatly benefit from the stability and predictability of energy costs provided by solar power.

Reducing fluctuations and better forecasting requirements.
Ask us how we can help
Need for independence
Businesses located in areas with unreliable power grids or those seeking to mitigate the risk of power outages may benefit from the energy independence that a solar installation offers, ensuring continuous operation without interruptions.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities are a great example of this, ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted.
Ask us how we can help
Education sector
Schools, universities, and other educational facilities often have the space, long-term horizon, and commitment to sustainability that make them ideal candidates for solar installations.

Besides reducing energy costs, they can use the solar system as a practical learning tool for students.
Ask us how we can help
Critical energy needs
Hospitals and healthcare facilities, with their critical need for reliable power and typically large energy usage, can greatly benefit from solar installations.

Solar energy can provide a dependable alternative or supplement to traditional power sources, ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted.
Ask us how we can help

Our process,
from start to finish

To learn more about each stage, click the button to visit a full page on that part of the process.

Consulting and quoting

Our approach to consulting and quoting for commercial solar systems is meticulous and tailored to our clients needs. We carefully assess each client's energy requirements, property layout, and regulatory parameters to craft bespoke solutions.

Our quotations provide transparent cost breakdowns, covering equipment, installation, and maintenance, along with potential returns on investment.

By customising our strategies to meet each client's specific objectives, we help UK businesses adopt sustainable energy solutions efficiently and cost-effectively.

1

DNO / Grid Application

We handle the DNO/Grid application process to ensure that your solar installation complies with all local regulations and safely connects to the grid.

Our team handles the preparation and submission of all required documentation, communicates with the DNO on your behalf, and keeps you updated throughout the process.

This crucial step ensures a seamless and compliant transition to solar power.

2

Structural and site analysis

We thoroughly examine a property’s infrastructure to ensure it can accommodate solar panels.

This included assessing the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of the buildings or land. All clients receive clear communication about our findings and any necessary adjustments needed to confidently move forward with the project.

Our goal is to ensure that the structural analysis provides a solid foundation for a successful and durable solar installation.

3

System design

Planning and expertise are crucial to creating a system tailored to your business’s needs.

We collaborate closely with clients to develop custom designs that optimise energy generation and efficiency while complying with regulatory requirements.

This stage is vital for laying the foundation of the solar project, and our experienced team is dedicated to providing the support and expertise needed for a successful outcome.

4

Procurement

Our team sources high-quality solar equipment and materials, prioritising both cost-effectiveness and reliability.

We collaborate with trusted suppliers and manufacturers to procure components that meet stringent performance and durability standards.

To see the brands we frequently partner with for our client installations, click learn more.

5

Project management

Our dedicated project managers act as the main point of contact, guiding clients through each phase of the installation process.

From initial planning and procurement to construction and commissioning, we ensure seamless coordination between all stakeholders, including suppliers, contractors, and regulatory authorities.

Clients can trust that their solar installation is in capable hands, allowing them to focus on their core business activities.

6

Installation

During the installation phase of a commercial solar project, clients can expect a seamless and expertly managed operation.

Our experienced installation teams, equipped with state-of-the-art tools and expertise, handle every aspect of the solar panel installation with meticulous precision.

Whether mounting panels on rooftops or setting up ground-mounted systems, we maintain a strong focus on delivering top-tier craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Safety protocols are rigorously upheld throughout the process, ensuring a secure working environment and smooth progressions.

7

Commissioning and handover

During the commissioning and handover phase of a commercial solar project, clients can expect a thorough and detailed process to ensure their new system is fully operational and meets all performance expectations.

Our commissioning team, equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, conducts extensive testing and validation of the entire solar installation to confirm optimal functionality.

Whether verifying system performance or conducting final inspections, we ensure every aspect of the installation meets the highest standards of quality and compliance.

As part of the handover, clients receive a comprehensive handover pack. This includes all necessary documentation, such as system manuals, performance reports, and warranty information, along with maintenance guidelines and troubleshooting tips.

8

Performance monitoring

We provide a comprehensive approach to tracking energy production and performance.

Utilising the latest monitoring systems, we provide real-time data so clients can monitor their energy usage and savings.

These advanced systems enable proactive identification of any issues or inefficiencies, ensuring prompt resolution and optimal system performance.

Clients gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of their solar investment, allowing them to make informed decisions to maximise its benefits. For example, monitoring systems may reveal a strong business case for adding battery storage.

9

Operations & maintenance

You’ll receive dedicated support to ensure the ongoing performance and longevity of their solar system.

Dependent on your financial route (e.g. PPA, Power Purchase Agreement) you may even have this maintenance included in your agreement.

Our experienced team can conduct annual inspections and maintenance checks to keep the system operating at peak efficiency.

This includes cleaning panels, testing electrical components, and assessing overall system health.

10

Your financial options

Our site features expansive guides on what the best financial options are for your business when considering commercial solar installation.

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

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

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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

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.