Is Solar PV Right for Your Business?

Rising energy costs are putting pressure on businesses across every sector. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems offer a proven way to reduce electricity bills, increase energy independence, and demonstrate environmental responsibility. But is solar PV the right investment for your business? At Switched Live Electrical, we're MCS accredited solar installers helping businesses across Bristol and the South West make informed decisions about renewable energy.

Understanding Solar PV for Commercial Properties

Solar PV systems convert sunlight into electricity that your business can use immediately. Any excess energy can be stored in a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) or exported back to the grid for payment through schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).

Unlike domestic installations, commercial solar systems are typically larger, generating more power and offering greater financial returns. They're designed to offset your business's daytime energy consumption when electricity rates are highest.

The Financial Case for Solar PV

Reduced Energy Bills

The primary benefit is straightforward: generate your own electricity and buy less from the grid. Depending on your system size and energy usage, solar PV can reduce your electricity bills by 30-70%.

For businesses with high daytime energy consumption—such as manufacturing facilities, offices, retail spaces, and data centers—the savings can be substantial. With commercial electricity rates significantly higher than domestic rates, the financial impact is even more pronounced.

Protection Against Rising Energy Costs

Energy prices have become increasingly volatile. Solar PV provides a hedge against future price increases by locking in a portion of your energy costs at a predictable rate. Once installed, your solar system generates free electricity for 25+ years with minimal maintenance costs.

Return on Investment

Most commercial solar installations pay for themselves within 5-8 years through energy savings. After that, you're essentially generating free electricity for the remainder of the system's 25-30 year lifespan.

When you factor in tax benefits, enhanced capital allowances, and potential income from exporting excess energy, the ROI becomes even more attractive.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

If your system generates more electricity than you use, you can export the surplus to the grid and receive payment through the SEG. While rates vary between suppliers, this provides an additional income stream that improves your overall return.

Environmental and Corporate Benefits

Carbon Footprint Reduction

Solar PV dramatically reduces your business's carbon emissions. A typical 50kW commercial system can offset around 20 tonnes of CO2 annually—equivalent to planting over 900 trees.

For businesses working toward net-zero targets or environmental certifications like ISO 14001, solar PV provides measurable, verifiable carbon reduction.

Enhanced Corporate Reputation

Demonstrating environmental responsibility matters to customers, employees, and stakeholders. Visible solar panels signal your commitment to sustainability and can differentiate your business in competitive markets.

Is Your Business Suitable for Solar PV?

Roof Space and Condition

You'll need adequate south, east, or west-facing roof space with minimal shading. A typical commercial solar panel is around 2m², so a 50kW system requires approximately 250-300m² of roof space.

Your roof must also be in good condition and capable of supporting the additional weight. We always conduct structural assessments as part of our site surveys.

Energy Consumption Patterns

Solar PV is most effective for businesses with high daytime energy usage when the sun is shining. If your operations run primarily during daylight hours, you'll maximize your self-consumption and savings.

Businesses operating 24/7 or with significant evening energy use should consider adding Battery Energy Storage Systems to store excess daytime generation for use during off-peak hours.

Available Budget

While solar PV offers excellent long-term returns, it requires upfront investment. System costs vary based on size and complexity, but commercial installations typically range from £20,000 to £100,000+.

Finance options are available to spread costs, and in many cases, monthly finance payments can be offset by immediate energy savings, making solar PV cash-flow positive from day one.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)

Adding battery storage to your solar installation maximizes the value of your generated electricity. BESS allows you to:

• Store excess solar generation for use during evening peak hours
• Reduce reliance on grid electricity during expensive peak periods
• Provide backup power during grid outages
• Take advantage of time-of-use tariffs by charging during off-peak periods

At Switched Live Electrical, we're MCS accredited for both Solar PV and BESS installations, ensuring your complete system is designed and installed to the highest standards.

The Installation Process

Site Survey and Design

We begin with a comprehensive site survey to assess your roof, electrical infrastructure, and energy consumption patterns. This allows us to design a system optimized for your specific needs and maximum ROI.

Planning and Permissions

Most commercial solar installations require planning permission. We handle all applications and liaise with local authorities on your behalf.

Professional Installation

Our qualified team manages the entire installation process, from structural mounting to electrical connection and grid registration. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your business operations.

Government Incentives and Support

While the Feed-in Tariff has closed to new applicants, several incentives remain:

• Enhanced Capital Allowances: Write down the full cost of your solar installation against taxable profits in the first year
• Smart Export Guarantee: Receive payment for excess electricity exported to the grid
• Business Rates Exemption: Solar panels may be exempt from business rates in certain circumstances

Making the Decision

Solar PV represents a significant but worthwhile investment for many businesses. The key questions to consider:

• Do you have suitable roof space with minimal shading?
• Is your business energy consumption high during daylight hours?
• Can you accommodate the upfront investment or finance costs?
• Are you committed to long-term occupancy of your premises?
• Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint and energy costs?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, solar PV is likely a smart investment for your business.

Switched Live Electrical Ltd is MCS accredited for Solar PV and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). We're also NIC EIC Approved Contractors with Safe Contractor approval and Construction Line Gold accreditation, ensuring the highest standards of installation and safety.