If you’re considering solar for your business, you’re not alone. Thousands of UK businesses are making the switch to solar PV to cut costs, boost sustainability, and gain more control over their energy future but before making the leap, most business owners have a few key questions—and rightly so.
Here are the top five questions we hear most often at PES Renewables Ltd. along with clear, honest answers to help you make an informed decision.
1. How much does a commercial solar PV system cost?
This is often the first question—and the answer depends on several factors including the size of your system, your building type, and your current energy usage.
On average, a commercial system in the UK costs between £10,000 and £50,000, though larger or more complex installations can exceed that. While this might seem like a significant investment, it’s important to weigh it against the long-term savings. Most systems pay for themselves in 4 to 6 years, after which you enjoy free electricity for 20+ more years.
We provide a tailored quote after a free consultation, including detailed ROI projections.
2. Will solar actually save my business money?
Yes—substantially. By generating your own electricity on-site, you reduce your reliance on the grid, meaning lower energy bills from day one. You can also earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) by selling excess energy back to the grid.
Over the lifetime of a typical system, savings can easily exceed £100,000, depending on usage. Factor in potential tax relief through the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA), and your return on investment becomes even stronger.
3. Is my business property suitable for solar panels?
In most cases, yes. Solar panels can be installed on a wide range of commercial rooftops, including warehouses, factories, office buildings, schools, and retail units. The key factors are roof size, structural condition, and orientation (south-facing is ideal, but east/west can also be viable).
If roof space is limited, ground-mounted systems may be an option. We always begin with a full site assessment to evaluate suitability and provide expert advice.
4. How disruptive is the installation process?
Not very. Most installations are completed within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on system size. Our experienced installation teams work around your schedule to minimise disruption to your day-to-day operations.
We handle all aspects of the process—from scaffolding and health & safety, to connecting your system to the grid. You don’t need to shut down your business, and most of our clients are surprised by how smooth the process is.
5. What about maintenance—how much work is it to keep a solar system running?
One of the great advantages of solar PV is that it’s very low maintenance. With no moving parts, systems are highly reliable and built to last 25 years or more. Regular cleaning (once or twice a year) and periodic inspections are typically all that’s required.
At PES Renewables Ltd. we offer optional maintenance packages that include performance monitoring, annual health checks, and rapid-response support if any issues arise.
Ready to Make an Informed Move Toward Solar?
We know going solar is a big decision—that’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way. From the initial consultation and custom system design to installation, maintenance, and support, our mission is to make your transition to solar simple and successful.
Get in touch with us today for a free site survey and quote. Let’s answer all your questions and show you how solar can work for your business.
