Solar PV System Installation: Harness the Power of the Sun
Investing in a solar PV system installation is a smart move for businesses looking to reduce energy costs and lower their carbon footprint. Commercial solar power installations offer a sustainable way to generate electricity while providing significant financial benefits over time.
However, selecting the right solar PV system requires thoughtful planning, as it is a long-term investment lasting over 25 years. This guide covers essential factors to consider, from system efficiency to financial incentives, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Partnering with Excel Energy can help streamline the process, providing expert guidance and customised commercial solar panel system to maximise your business’s energy savings and sustainability goals.
Are Solar PV System Installations Right for My Business?
When evaluating whether a solar PV system installation is right for your business, it’s essential to consider key factors that influence feasibility and financial returns.
Roof Space:
Larger commercial buildings, such as warehouses and office complexes, typically have ample roof space for commercial solar PV system installations. However, smaller businesses with limited roof areas may experience a longer payback period.
Electricity Consumption:
If your business uses more than 10,000 kWh annually, installing solar PV panels can lead to substantial energy savings and a faster return on investment.
Assessing these factors carefully can help determine if solar energy is a viable and cost-effective solution for your business.
How Much Carbon Will i Save With a solar system Installation
Reducing carbon emissions is a key priority for businesses striving for sustainability. Installing a 100 kWp commercial solar PV system, consisting of approximately 180 panels, can cut carbon emissions by around 26 tonnes annually.
To illustrate, this is equivalent to the emissions of about six average UK households, each producing roughly 4 tonnes of carbon per year. By investing in a commercial solar panel system, businesses can significantly lower their carbon footprint, align with environmental regulations, and enhance their corporate social responsibility.
Additionally, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability can improve brand reputation and attract eco-conscious customers, giving businesses a competitive edge.
What Does a Commercial Solar Panels Installation Cost?
The cost of a commercial solar panel installation varies based on multiple factors, each influencing the overall investment and potential savings. Understanding these factors can help businesses make informed decisions and maximise their return on investment.
Key commercial solar panel costs variables include:
Panel Efficiency:
Higher-efficiency solar PV panels may have a higher upfront cost but generate more energy, improving long-term returns.
System Size:
Larger comemrcial PV installations typically offer better economies of scale, reducing the cost per kWp.
Roof Condition & Type:
Structural reinforcements or special mounting systems can add to the overall expense.
Available Incentives:
Grants, tax benefits, and financial incentives may help offset initial costs.
Installation Complexity:
Factors such as roof access, wiring requirements, and shading can impact labour and material costs.
At Excel Energy, we specialise in delivering high-quality, cost-effective commercial solar Panel installations designed to match your business’s energy needs and budget.
Example System Cost:
A typical 100 kWp commercial solar panel installation costs between £70,000 and £95,000, offering a strong return on investment through energy savings.
Competitive Pricing:
Our solar PV systems are priced between £700 and £950 per kWp installed, ensuring affordability without compromising quality.
Tailored Design:
Our expert design team customises each system to maximise efficiency, optimise energy output, and ensure long-term cost-effectiveness.
Available Grants:
Depending on your industry and location, various financial incentives and grants may be available to reduce upfront costs and enhance affordability.
By partnering with Excel Energy, your business can transition to renewable energy with confidence, benefiting from reduced energy expenses and a lower carbon footprint.
How Quickly Can I Expect a Return on Investment?
With a professionally installed commercial solar panel system from Excel Energy, most businesses see a return on investment (ROI) in approximately four to seven years.
This is largely due to an average levelised cost of energy of just 7p/kWh, significantly reducing electricity expenses. After the payback period, businesses can enjoy around 21 years of free, zero-carbon electricity, leading to substantial long-term savings.
The exact solar PV panel installation payback period depends on factors such as system size, energy consumption, and available incentives. However, many businesses recover their investment within four to seven years, making solar a financially smart and sustainable energy solution.
Which Commercial Solar Panel System Should I Choose?
Choosing the right commercial solar PV system involves balancing cost, efficiency, and safety. There are three main system types to consider:
Micro-Inverter Systems:
The highest-cost option, offering maximum efficiency and performance. Each solar PV panel operates independently, making it ideal for complex rooftops with shading issues. These systems ensure consistent energy output and enhanced monitoring capabilities but come at a higher initial investment.
String Systems:
The most budget-friendly option, ideal for businesses seeking a cost-effective solar solution. These commercial solar panel systems link multiple panels in a series, making them efficient for large, unobstructed rooftop spaces. However, their performance is impacted if one panel underperforms due to shading or debris.
Optimised Systems:
A well-rounded choice that balances affordability, quality, and efficiency. By integrating power optimisers with each solar PV photovoltaic panel, they reduce the impact of shading while ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. This option provides long-term savings and is an excellent middle ground between cost and performance.
At Excel Energy, we recommend optimised commercial solar panel systems for businesses seeking maximum performance, financial return, and compliance with the latest safety standards.
Should I Install a Battery Energy Storage System?
Pairing your commercial solar PV panel installation with a battery energy storage system (BESS) can significantly boost energy savings and open new revenue streams. A typical business battery system of about 100 kW offers multiple benefits:
Backup Power:
Provide reliable energy during outages, ensuring critical operations continue uninterrupted.
Peak Shaving & Load Shifting:
Store excess energy during off-peak periods and use it when demand and electricity prices are high, reducing overall energy costs.
Revenue Opportunities:
Earn income by offering grid services like frequency regulation and demand response.
Enhanced Sustainability:
Align energy consumption with renewable generation and manage excess exports to comply with DNO regulations.
Overall, integrating BESS optimises commercial energy management.
Can I Sell Excess Solar Power to the Grid?
Yes, you can sell excess solar power to the grid, and doing so can significantly shorten your payback period. Excel Energy streamlines the entire process, ensuring a hassle‐free experience. Our service includes:
Contract Management:
Handling all necessary contracts and paperwork.
Installation & Integration:
Setting up export meters and connecting your system to the grid.
Technical Oversight:
Managing system configurations to optimise energy export.
Competitive Rates:
Securing attractive export rates to maximise your returns.
By transferring surplus energy back into the grid, you not only contribute to a greener environment but also generate additional revenue, ultimately enhancing your overall energy investment performance.
How Long Does a Commercial Solar Installation Process Take?
From initial consultation to full system activation, a commercial solar PV installation typically takes between two and six months depending on commercial solar panel system size. The overall timeline depends on several factors, including:
DNO Approval:
Approval from the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) is essential to ensure your solar PV panel system can safely connect to the grid. This process involves assessing grid capacity and potential impact, which can take several weeks or months, depending on the system size and location.
Planning Permission:
Securing the necessary permits depends on local regulations and building classifications. While many commercial solar installations fall under permitted development, larger systems or listed buildings may require additional approvals, potentially extending project timelines.
Financing Arrangements:
Securing funding through grants, loans, or power purchase agreements (PPAs) can impact project timelines. Finalising contracts with lenders, investors, or leasing partners may add complexity, making early financial planning crucial for a smooth installation.
Once all approvals are in place, our experienced commercial solar installers can complete the on-site setup in as little as 10 days. This streamlined process ensures that every step from design and permits to rapid installation is efficiently managed, allowing you to enjoy renewable energy benefits sooner.
How Do I Maintain My Commercial Solar PV system Installation?
Maintaining a commercial solar PV system installation is simple and ensures long-term efficiency and cost savings. Here are the key steps:
Regular Servicing
Periodic inspections by a professional help detect issues early and maintain peak performance.
Annual Cleaning
Dust, dirt, and debris can reduce efficiency. Schedule professional cleaning or use non-abrasive methods to keep panels clear.
Remote Monitoring
At Excel Energy, we install SolarEdge-optimised systems, enabling businesses to track their solar performance via an online platform or app for quick issue detection and resolution.
In the UK market, Excel Energy offers a range of solar energy inverters, including SolarEdge-optimised systems. As a SolarEdge-approved installer, we provide businesses with advanced monitoring capabilities, enabling remote tracking of their commercial solar PV installations via an online platform or app. This ensures swift identification and resolution of any performance issues, maximising system efficiency and reliability.
How Long Does a Commercial Solar Installation Last?
Commercial solar PV panels are designed for durability and long-term performance, with a minimum lifespan of 25 years. Many panels continue to generate electricity efficiently well beyond this period. Key factors influencing longevity include:
Regular Maintenance:
Routine cleaning and servicing are essential to keeping solar PV panels operating at peak efficiency. Removing dust, debris, and bird droppings helps prevent energy loss, while periodic inspections identify and address potential issues, such as wiring faults or inverter inefficiencies, ensuring consistent energy production.
High-Quality Materials:
Commercial solar panels are constructed using durable materials like tempered glass, aluminium frames, and high-grade silicon cells. These components ensure long-lasting performance, resistance to harsh weather conditions, and minimal degradation over time, allowing panels to maintain efficiency for decades.
Advanced Recycling:
Modern recycling technologies enable the recovery and reuse of key materials, such as silicon wafers, aluminium, and glass. This reduces landfill waste, lowers the demand for raw resources, and supports a circular economy, making solar energy an even more sustainable solution.
Investing in a commercial solar panel Installation ensures decades of energy savings while contributing to a sustainable future.
Partner with Excel Energy for Your Commercial Solar PV System Installation
With 30 years combined expertise in renewable energy, Excel Energy is a trusted commercial solar Installer in designing, installing, and maintaining high-performance commercial solar panel systems. We go beyond installation by offering:
✅ Expert system design tailored to your energy needs.
✅ Maintenance and monitoring for long-term efficiency.
✅ Buying exported electricity to maximise your savings.
✅ Supplying renewable power for a greener future.
Take control of your energy costs and sustainability goals. Contact Excel Energy today to explore the best commercial solar solutions for your business!
