In recent years, solar panels have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. Installing solar panels on your commercial property in Shortlands can help significantly reduce your energy costs and carbon footprint while increasing your business's energy efficiency. At Panelit Solar, we are more than happy to discuss the benefits of solar panels for commercial use in Shortlands and provide you with actionable steps to help you maximise your business's energy efficiency.
There are many benefits for businesses relating to solar panelling. Importantly, solar panels provide a clean and renewable energy source, helping reduce your business's carbon footprint. With a growing focus on reducing your carbon footprint and the threat of climate change, we know renewable energy is a hot topic for many firms, and we believe a commercial solar panel system helps you move forward as a business.
Additionally, commercial solar panels can help you to save on energy prices by generating electricity that can be used to power your business, reducing your dependence on traditional power sources. Furthermore, commercial solar installation can increase the value of your property, making it a wise long-term investment.
While any help is welcome for a business, there is no denying the importance of economic benefits for businesses in Shortlands. There are several ways companies benefit from installing a commercial solar panel system at their premises, which are worth considering.
Businesses can significantly reduce their reliance on grid electricity and save money on their energy bills by generating their electricity. Solar panels can generate electricity throughout the day, even during periods of low demand, which means businesses can use the energy generated by their solar panels instead of purchasing electricity from the grid.
The rising cost of energy bills is a massive factor in businesses considering a commercial solar panel system, and we are more than happy to discuss a solar installation with respect to better managing your energy bills.
The UK government offers many tax benefits to businesses that install solar panels. These include 100% first-year capital allowances, which allow companies to deduct the total cost of their solar panel installation from their taxable profits in the year of purchase.
Businesses in Shortlands may also be eligible for business rates relief, which can significantly reduce the amount of business rates they must pay.
Investing in solar panels can be a valuable opportunity for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and reduce their carbon footprint. By generating clean energy, companies can significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
The UK government offered a Feed-In Tariff (FiT) scheme for commercial solar panel installations. This scheme closed to new applicants as of April 2019, but it still operates for companies already signed up to the agreement.
Under this scheme, businesses are paid for every unit of electricity their solar panel system generates, regardless of whether it is used on-site or exported to the national grid.
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme replaced the FiT scheme in January 2020. This scheme is available for people and businesses who generate excess electricity from:
Therefore, if you have solar thermal panels, these aren’t eligible for the SEG scheme, as per the Government guidelines.
We know many companies are concerned about matters such as carbon emissions and future energy supply, which means solar panels for business is a pressing matter. We stay in touch with the latest news, so if you want to be kept up to date with relevant information for solar panels businesses, we can help.
Installing commercial solar panels can also increase the value of a property. Solar panels are desirable for potential buyers or tenants in Shortlands, as they can offer significant energy savings and contribute to a more sustainable business operation. With solar panels for business premises, there are short and long-term benefits., which means it can form part of your sustainable business strategy.
At Panelit Solar, we are committed to helping commercial businesses in Shortlands benefit from solar power and panel installation. Our team of experts can comprehensively assess the financial benefits of installing commercial solar panels for your business and help you navigate the various schemes and incentives available.
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You should consider several factors when choosing solar panels for your commercial property. These include the size and orientation of your roof, the level of energy your business consumes, and the type of solar panels best suited for your needs. It is essential to consult with a reputable solar panel provider to determine the best solar panel system for your business. At Panelit Solar, we are more than happy to provide this service.
While each project is unique, we aim to deliver the finest standard of service to all clients, which means we have a general process. When you call on us to install solar panels at your commercial premises, this is our standard process:
The first step in our process is to schedule a consultation with the client. During this consultation, we gather information about the client's energy needs and assess their site for solar panel installation. We examine the orientation of the site, the roof type, and any shading issues that could impact the efficiency of the solar panels.
Understandably, roof space is a crucial component in commercial solar panel efficiency and output. If you have available roof space, it is likely we advise you to install the system here. However, if you lack roof space, there are other options, and we will be happy to advise you on how to best use solar power and solar panels for business.
After the consultation, our team prepares a proposal that outlines the recommended solar panel system design, the equipment, and the estimated cost. We work with the client to refine the proposal until it meets their needs and budget.
Once the proposal has been approved, we will obtain the necessary permits for the installation. Our engineers will also review the site and make any necessary adjustments to the solar panel design to ensure optimal efficiency. Also, if planning permission is necessary, we can assist you.
After obtaining the necessary permits, we begin the installation process. Our team of experienced installers will install the solar panels, electrical components, and critical support structures. The installation process typically takes several days to complete, depending on the size of the system.
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Once the initial installation costs are covered, it is straightforward to enjoy a great return while better managing your energy demand and electricity supply.
Once the installation is complete, we conduct a thorough inspection to ensure the solar panel system works correctly. Our team will also train the client to monitor and maintain the system. After review, we commission the system and ensure it is connected to the grid.
We offer ongoing maintenance and monitoring services to ensure that the solar panel system continues operating optimally. Our team will regularly inspect the system, perform any necessary repairs, and provide the client with detailed reports on the system's performance.
Maintenance costs depend on the work involved, access and other factors, but we provide you with a quote based on what you need. When it comes to solar panels for businesses, we do everything we can to ensure you enjoy a better return when it comes to energy usage.
At Panelit Solar in Shortlands, we pride ourselves on providing commercial businesses with high-quality solar panel installation services. Our process ensures that we complete every project to the highest standard, from start to finish.
We are more than happy to undertake commercial solar panel installation, and here is a walkthrough of our work.
Before the installation begins, our team will conduct a pre-installation site assessment to ensure the site is ready for installation. This includes checking for any obstacles or safety hazards that may affect the installation process, ensuring that the site meets all necessary building codes, and ensuring the necessary equipment and materials are available.
If the solar panels are being installed on a roof, our team will first prepare the roof by cleaning it and ensuring that it is structurally sound. We may also need to reinforce the roof or make any necessary repairs to ensure it can support the weight of the solar panels.
Next, our team will install the mounting system, which supports the solar panels and securely attaches them to the roof or ground. The mounting system is typically made of aluminium or stainless steel, designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Once the mounting system is installed, our team will begin the electrical wiring process. This involves connecting the solar panels to an inverter, which converts the DC power generated by the solar panels into AC power that the client's electrical system can use. Our team will also install a monitoring system, which allows the client to track the solar panel system's performance.
With the system and electrical wiring in place, our team will begin installing the solar panels. The solar panels are carefully placed on the mounting system and secured using clamps. Our team will ensure the panels are correctly aligned and facing the correct direction to maximise energy output.
Once the installation is complete, our team will conduct a final inspection to ensure the system works properly and meets all safety and performance standards. We will also clean up the installation site, removing debris or equipment.
Each installation is unique, with many variables involved in the process. At Panelit Solar, we are happy to visit your premises in Shortlands and discuss your energy needs. We offer a quote tailored to you, helping you understand every aspect of what commercial solar panels cost. If you need assistance with financial forecasting, or knowing how much energy you use or can generate in excess, we'll offer a dedicated project manager to ensure you make informed decisions.
As a benchmark, it is not uncommon for a small to medium-sized company in Shortlands to spend between £16,000 and £70,000 for their solar set-up. This includes installation costs but in a complex situation; installation costs will likely be greater. Situations where installation costs are higher are as follows:
Structural Complexity: If the building structure has irregular shapes or uneven surfaces, it may require additional engineering and design work to properly install the solar panels. This can increase installation costs.
Roof Condition: If the roof of the commercial building is old or requires repairs, the cost of preparing the surface for solar panel installation may increase the installation costs. In some cases, it may be necessary to reinforce the roof to support the weight of the solar panels.
Electrical Upgrades: If the building's electrical system requires an upgrade to support the solar panels, you must account for the additional work. This can include installing a new electrical panel, upgrading wiring or transformers, or other changes to the electrical system.
Access Challenges: If the commercial building is located in a hard-to-reach area or has limited access, the installation costs may increase due to the additional equipment and labour required to transport the solar panels and install them in place.
In Shortlands, for a power output of 10kWp, with 30 panels, the approximate cost, including VAT and standard installation, is around £16,200. For a power output of 25 kWp, with 50 panels, the price is around £39,000. The cost rises to around £78,000 for a power output of 50 kWp and 100 panels. With a power output of 100 kWp, and 200 panels, expect to pay around £156,000.
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With rising costs and each installation having unique challenges, prices for your commercial solar installation might be higher. However, by taking these figures as a rough benchmark, you can make an informed decision regarding the suitability of commercial solar panels.
Commercial solar panels are mountable on various surfaces, including roofs, walls, and the ground. The specific location for mounting depends on factors such as the orientation and tilt of the panels, the amount of sunlight available, and the size of the system. Rooftop installations are typical for commercial buildings, as they utilise open space and do not require additional land.
Ground-mounted solar panels may be preferable when the roof is unsuitable for solar panels or additional capacity is needed. Wall-mounted installations may also be possible in some cases, depending on the building's design and structure.
A quick overview of each option is as follows:
Rooftop installations: Rooftop installations are a popular choice for commercial buildings because they utilise available space on the roof without requiring additional land. Rooftop solar panels can be installed on flat or sloped roofs, and the orientation and tilt of the panels can be adjusted to optimise energy production.
Roof mounted solar panels have the added benefit of shading the building and reducing cooling costs. Additionally, roof mounted installations are typically easier to maintain and can be easily accessed for cleaning or repairs.
Ground-mounted systems: Ground-mounted solar panel systems are often preferred when the roof is unsuitable for solar panels or when additional capacity is needed beyond what you can place on the roof.
You can install ground solar systems on flat or sloped land and adjust the panels' orientation and tilt to optimise energy production. These systems also have the advantage of being easier to access for maintenance, cleaning, or repairs.
Wall-mounted installations: Wall-mounted solar panel installations are less common than rooftop or ground-mounted installations, but they can be a good option in some cases. Wall-mounted systems are often used on buildings with limited roof space or where the roof is not suitable for solar panels.
Wall-mounted systems can also be used for aesthetic purposes, as they can be designed to blend in with the building's exterior. However, wall-mounted systems may require additional structural support and can be more challenging to access for maintenance or repairs.
In general, the benefits of each commercial solar panel setup will depend on each installation's specific needs and constraints. Some of the factors to consider when selecting the preferred setup for commercial solar panels include:
Ultimately, the goal is to design a solar panel system that maximises energy production, reduces energy costs, and meets the unique needs of the building and its occupants. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to adding a commercial solar panel set-up to your premises. This is why we are happy to visit your premises, and offer tailored advice on how you should harness solar power.
The energy produced from all these options help you generate your own clean energy while reducing your business carbon footprint. With a reduced carbon footprint, you are well on your way to a perfect energy solution, no matter how much energy you generate or use each year.
At Panelit Solar, we offer services to commercial and domestic clients, so we are well-placed to discuss the differences between commercial and domestic solar systems.
Both domestic and commercial solar panels feature the same materials and work in the same way. We are skilled and highly experienced in both services because there isn’t much difference in the processes.
However, there are some ways commercial solar systems differ from domestic options, including:
We are more than happy to discuss the financial aspects of commercial solar panels in great detail, helping you decide what is best for your needs. Our Shortlands team offers industry leading advice, detailing environmental benefits and cost savings to your business.
Whether you own your business premises or you are responsible for a range of commercial buildings, we are more than happy to advise on every aspect of solar panels for business, generating maximum efficiency with minimal environmental impact for your business.
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To select the best size for your commercial solar panel system, consider your company's energy use, installation area, and budget. A solar installer can assist you in analysing your energy costs and site circumstances in order to determine the best system size for your needs.
Because of their efficiency and affordability, monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels are often employed in commercial installations. String inverters are common for smaller installations, although central or microinverters may be better suited for bigger systems with varied orientations or shading difficulties.
Feed-in tariffs (FITs) are financial incentives that compensate businesses for excess electricity generated by solar panel installations that is fed back into the grid. Businesses can offset installation costs, cut energy bills, and even create additional cash from their solar panel systems by participating in a FIT scheme.
A solar panel system connects to your company's existing electrical infrastructure via an inverter, which transforms the direct current (DC) generated by the panels to alternating current (AC) compatible with your system. The solar-generated electricity is then utilised to run your business, with any excess being fed back into the grid or, if applicable, stored in a battery system.