The business world has an outsized role to play in helping the UK reach net zero by 2050. Nearly a third of the UK's largest companies, with a combined market capitalization of £650 billion, have already made a public commitment to this cause by signing up to the United Nations' Race to Zero campaign.
The UK government is encouraging this momentum by incentivising businesses to adopt renewable energy technologies on their properties, most notably solar panels. Solar energy is not only a vital component of our low carbon energy mix, but solar PVs have increasingly become an affordable option for businesses who want to create new revenue streams and shield themselves from the fluctuating energy market.
To find out more about how solar panels work and the benefits they can bring to your business, read on.
Understanding Solar Panels for Business vs Commercial Solar Panels
Commercial Solar
The term 'commercial solar' often refers to sizable solar setups found on larger facilities such as agricultural buildings, industrial sites, factories, schools, hospitals, and manufacturing units.
Solar Panels for Business
This term typically relates to installations for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) housed within office buildings. These businesses generally need solar systems that are comparable in scale and potential financial return to those used in residential settings.
Understanding Solar PV Panels vs Photovoltaic (PV) Panels
Photovoltaic (PV) Panels
Convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconducting materials.
They're versatile, with a lifespan of up to 50 years, and can significantly reduce electricity bills.
However, they require a substantial initial investment and space due to lower efficiency (15-20%).
Solar Thermal Panels
These panels convert sunlight into heat, which is then used to warm up water in a hot water tank.
They're highly efficient (70% efficiency), cost-effective, and space-efficient.
Their main limitations are their single-purpose use (only for heating water) and a shorter lifespan of about 20 years.
Why choose Solar PV Panels for Businesses?
Energy Storage Systems for Business
How can CQuel find and secure green energy funding for your business?
Ready to go solar? Let CQuel do the heavy lifting for you.
We handle everything: from identifying the right system for your business and all your financing options, to connecting you with the perfect partner for a smooth, stress-free install – all on your terms.Explore our current openings and become a part of Team CQuel.
Can I get business grants or funding for solar panels?
Yes, your business can potentially receive grants or funding for solar panels and other green energy projects. Although direct grants for solar panels are limited, the UK government has allocated nearly £5 billion to assist businesses in becoming more sustainable. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is one such scheme where businesses can earn money by selling surplus renewable energy back to the National Grid. To find out more about how you can create new revenue through the SEG, drop a line to chai@cquel.io.
How much do commercial solar panels cost?
The cost of installing solar energy systems varies based on the type and size of the system. For a small-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) system, prices range from £5,000 to £10,000, with the investment typically recovered over a period of six to ten years. Solar thermal systems can be slightly more affordable, with installation costs falling between £3,000 and £5,000 and a shorter payback period of about three to five years. Want to know exactly what system size would work for your business, and how much it’ll cost? Speak to our customer team at chai@cquel.io.
Do I need planning permission to install solar panels?
Generally, you won't need planning permission for installations, but there are exceptions. These include listed buildings, apartments, and areas designated for conservation.Unless you’re setting up a fully off-grid system, however, you will need to submit an application to your regional district network operator (DNO) to ensure that your local substation has capacity for your PV system. There are two types of DNO applications: the G98 for small-scale systems and G99 for large-scale systems.
If you’re looking for help with your DNO application, we can help. Speak to chai@cquel.io to find out how CQuel can help you with the project management of your solar PV system.
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