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Glossary

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FAQs

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Case studies

We regularly publish new client case studies so that you can compare against businesses who have achieved a transformation similar to what you are looking for.

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ACI

Saving £19,477 annually while reducing CO2 emissions by 30,474 kg

ACI Care has significantly reduced its carbon footprint by installing solar panels, cutting down over 30,000 kg of CO2 emissions each year. This initiative not only promotes sustainability but also brings substantial financial savings of £19,477 annually.

Baltic Apprenticeships

£455,610 in lifetime savings for the largest independent training provider in England

A 79.12 kW rooftop solar system with 172 panels at Baltic Training Services, Darlington, generates 66,713 kWh annually, saving 31,338 kg of CO₂ in the first year. It will provide £18,224.43 in first-year savings and £455,610.75 over 25 years, with a total generation of 1,667,825 kWh.

£850k in energy generated yearly at Bay Farm

Bay Farm effectively offsets a substantial 1,750,250 kg of CO2 each year, while also generating average savings of £850,080 annually. This initiative significantly contributes to environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

Box Road reduces 26 million kg CO2 and generates £14m in energy over 25 years

Box Road is a major contributor to carbon reduction, saving 1,055,012 kg of CO2 per year. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 26 million kg of CO2 reduced. Additionally, the project provides significant financial savings of £561,750 annually, totaling £14 million over 25 years, highlighting its substantial environmental and economic benefits.

British American Tobacco

BAT's system yields £6.64m in savings

We had the opportunity to collaborate with CBRE to install at British American Tobacco Southampton to enhance their sustainability efforts through a Solar PV installation.

Chapel Farm reduces 1.08 million kg CO2 over 25 years

Despite its smaller scale, the Chapel Farm project achieves a commendable CO2 reduction of 43,348 kg annually. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 1.08 million kg of CO2 reduced, showcasing the potential of even smaller projects.

Cutting electricity costs by £448 weekly and CO2 emissions by 26,695 kg annually

Churchill has made impressive strides in sustainability by reducing its CO2 emissions by 26,695 kg annually thanks to its new solar energy system. The project highlights the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy.

Cutting 8,030 kg of CO2 emissions annually with solar panels

Clifford Springs' solar panel installation has successfully cut 8,030 kg of CO2 emissions each year. This project showcases the positive impact of renewable energy on both the environment and the organization's finances.

Cobbs Cross reduces 35 million kg CO2 and generates £17.5m in energy over 25 years

Cobbs Cross offsets a significant 1,421,371 kg of CO2 each year. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 35 million kg of CO2 reduced. Additionally, the project provides substantial financial savings of £702,975 annually, totaling £17.5 million over 25 years, highlighting its significant environmental and economic benefits.

Combermere Abbey generates enough energy to power 3,500+ homes per year

Combermere Abbey Solar Farm offsets 3,170,944 kg of CO2 each year. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately 79 million kg of CO2 reduced. Additionally, the project provides significant financial savings of £1,451,974 annually, totalling £36 million over 25 years, showcasing its considerable environmental and economic benefits.

Dorset Council generate £341,880 worth of energy per year

Dorset Council effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 477,907 kg per year, while also delivering impressive financial savings of £341,880 annually, contributing significantly to both environmental and economic sustainability.

Fardanes generates £1,184,400 in energy annually

The Fardanes project offsets 2,462,291 kg of CO2 annually and generates substantial savings of £1,184,400 each year, demonstrating a significant positive impact on both the environment and finances.

Hazel Farm generates £472,500 in energy yearly

Hazel Farm offsets 1,089,781 kg of CO2 annually and generates substantial savings of £472,500 each year, demonstrating a significant positive impact on both the environment and finances.

Honnington project generates nearly £30m in energy over 25 years

Honnington stands out with a remarkable annual CO2 reduction of 2,398,310 kg and substantial yearly savings of £1,171,170. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to nearly £30 million in savings, emphasizing its impressive contributions to sustainability and cost-efficiency.

Offsetting 43,468 kg of CO2 annually through solar power

Island Health's commitment to sustainability is evident in its solar power project, which offsets 43,468 kg of CO2 annually. This initiative demonstrates the significant environmental and economic benefits of solar energy.

1.05 million kg CO2 reduced annually by Lains project

Lains successfully offset 1,053,666 kg of CO2 each year and provides average annual savings of £561,750, making it a noteworthy example of environmental and economic benefits.

£14m in energy generated over 25 years by Magazine project

Magazine effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 1,063,999 kg per year, while also delivering financial savings of £561,750 annually. Over a 25-year period, this amounts to approximately £14 million in savings, contributing significantly to both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

Menzies's second installation generates just shy of £1m in lifetime savings

With an annual generation capacity of 121,837 kWh, it meets 78,522 kWh of yearly self-consumption needs and exports 43,316 kWh of surplus energy per year.

£2m in lifetime savings for Menzies

A 471kw installation that will reduce Menzies dependence on the grid by over 30%.

Reducing energy overhead for Moss Electrical by £168,720 per year

The Moss Electrical Dartford project effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 256,489 kg per year. Additionally, it generates significant financial savings of £168,720 annually, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

129 panels installed at Oakland Grange

A rooftop solar PV installation at Oakland Grange, with a capacity of 52.89 kW and 129 panels, generates approximately 46,399 kWh annually, saving an estimated 9,600 kg of CO₂ in the first year. Over 25 years, the system is projected to save £303,647, generate 1,159,975 kWh, and offset 260,983 kg of CO₂, equivalent to planting about 10,439 trees.

Saving over 100,000 kg of CO2 annually with solar installation

Pearce Recycling's solar installation is a major environmental success, saving over 100,000 kg of CO2 emissions annually. The project not only supports sustainability but also yields substantial financial savings.

3.2 year lifetime return on investment for Porsche

Explore how Porsche Centre Norwich achieved a 6.1x ROI with Sustain Commercial Solar, saving £991,363 over the system's lifetime by reducing carbon emissions.

ROI in under 3 years for Porsche's 2nd system installation

Porsche's 2nd site installation with us has an ROI of just over 2 years and will reduce their dependency on the grid by 39.9%.

Reducing grid reliance and saving £27,528 annually

Quantrelle has significantly reduced its carbon footprint by installing solar panels, cutting down 43,328 kg of CO2 emissions each year. This project showcases the positive environmental and financial impacts of renewable energy.

Achieving substantial CO2 savings of 54,253 kg annually through solar installation

Sheffcare's solar installation is a major step towards sustainability, achieving significant CO2 savings of 54,253 kg annually. The project highlights the dual benefits of environmental conservation and cost reduction.

Soho Farm reduces 702,644 kg CO2 annually

Soho Farm effectively offsets 702,644 kg of CO2 each year. Additionally, it generates significant financial savings of £343,350 annually, contributing both to environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

Reducing CO2 emissions for a shopping centre by 25,541kg per year

The Southside Shopping Centre project effectively reduces CO2 emissions by 25,541 kg per year. This initiative also generates financial savings of £19,980 annually, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

ThermoFisher reduce energy costs by 15% via PPA

Custodian Capital, a commercial property asset manager, were able to secure a forecasted £4,792,281 in lifetime savings and reduce the energy costs of their tenant, ThermoFisher, by 15%.

In simpler terms, "PV" in solar energy stands for "photovoltaic." It's the technology that turns sunlight into electricity using solar panels.

Glossary

Carports

Are solar panels for care homes easy to maintain?

Yes, solar panels for care homes are easy to maintain. We recommend that you get your solar panels cleaned once a year.

FAQ

Are solar panels for commercial properties worth it?

Yes, solar panels for commercial properties are worth installing because the reduction in energy bills alone will help your business save money. Through solar panels, your commercial building will also lose its reliance on the grid for power.‍

FAQ

Are solar panels suitable for care homes?

Yes, solar panels are suitable for care homes as they have large roof space and work well in facilities that need energy generated 24/7. Care homes also tend to operate during daylight hours when solar energy production is at its peak.

FAQ

Are there any hidden fees?

No, our PPAs are fully transparent. There are no hidden fees or unexpected costs.

FAQ

Can I add more solar panels or storage later with a PPA?

Yes, depending on your business’s growing energy needs, additional solar panels or battery storage can be integrated into your existing system. This can be discussed and adjusted within your PPA agreement to ensure you continue to maximise savings and efficiency.

FAQ

Can I expand my solar system if my leisure facility grows?

Yes, you will be able to expand on your solar system if your leisure facility grows. Sustain Commercial Solar offers tailored packages for you and your leisure facility that account for expansions.

FAQ

Can I terminate a commercial solar PPA early?

Yes, many PPAs offer buyout options or flexible terms, which can be negotiated during the agreement process.

FAQ

Can a business expand its existing solar panel system?

Yes, a commercial solar system can be expanded.

FAQ

Solar

Can a business go off-grid with solar and battery storage?

Yes, but this is an atypical arrangement and would require a large battery system and relatively small energy needs.

FAQ

Battery storage

Can commercial solar panels work on cloudy days?

Yes, but their efficiency is reduced.

FAQ

Solar

Can farm solar panels be installed on unused land without affecting crop production?

Yes, ground-mounted solar systems can be installed on unused or marginal land, such as areas that are not suitable for crops. This allows you to generate solar energy without impacting productive farmland. Some farmers also adopt agrivoltaics, where crops are grown beneath or alongside solar panels, optimising land use for both agriculture and energy generation.

FAQ

Solar

Can farm solar panels power my entire farm, including machinery and refrigeration?

Yes, farm solar panels can be used to power everything from machinery and irrigation systems to greenhouses, livestock operations, and refrigeration units. Your solar system can be customised to meet the specific energy demands of your farm, whether you need it for heavy equipment, lighting, or temperature control in barns and storage facilities.

FAQ

Solar

Can solar energy be used for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations?

Yes, solar energy can be used to power electric vehicles (EVs) on-site. This way, your guests can charge their electric cars at your gyms, hotels, or resorts. This also adds to sustainable transport trends.

FAQ

Can solar energy help support electric vehicle (EV) charging in logistics?

Yes, solar energy is an excellent solution for powering EV charging stations. As more logistics companies transition to electric vehicle fleets, solar power can provide a cost-effective, renewable source of energy to charge EVs on-site, reducing both fuel costs and reliance on grid electricity.

FAQ

Can solar energy power EV charging stations at my commercial property?

Yes, solar energy can power EV charging stations at your commercial property. This will also help you provide additional amenities for your tenants and customers, all while reducing the costs associated with charging electric vehicles.

FAQ

Can solar panels be installed on any type of commercial building?

Yes, solar systems are flexible and can be installed on any type of commercial building, such as office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, industrial complexes, and more. The best solar system for your building will depend on factors like available rooftop space, energy needs, and building layout.

FAQ

Can solar panels be installed on the rooftop or parking areas of my car dealership?

Yes, solar panels can be installed on the rooftop or parking areas of your car dealership, as these are ideal places for solar panel installations. Rooftop systems maximise unused space, while solar powered carports provide additional benefits, such as shaded parking for vehicles, improving customer experience and protecting vehicles from outdoor elements.

FAQ

Can solar panels power saunas and heated pools in a leisure facility?

Yes, solar panels can definitely power saunas and heated pools in a leisure facility. Solar systems can provide the electricity needed for heating, ventilation, and lighting, helping you reduce operational costs while maintaining guest comfort and satisfaction.

FAQ

Can solar power be used for public infrastructure, like street lighting or EV charging stations?

Yes, solar power can be used for public infrastructure, such as street lighting or EV charging stations. Solar panel installations also reduce the operational costs of these services.

FAQ

Can solar power handle the energy demands of a large logistics operation?

Yes, solar systems are scalable and can be customised to meet the high energy demands of your logistics facilities. Whether it's for lighting, HVAC systems, automated operations, or electric vehicle (EV) charging, solar installations for logistics can generate sufficient power to support your logistics operations efficiently.

FAQ

Can solar power handle the high energy demands of a manufacturing facility?

Yes, solar power can handle the high energy demands of a manufacturing facility. Industrial solar systems can be customised to meet the high energy demands of your manufacturing facility. From heavy machinery to continuous production lines, solar solutions can be designed to generate the required electricity. Additionally, solar can be paired with energy storage systems (batteries) to ensure power availability during peak production times or in the event of a power outage.

FAQ

Can solar power improve my dealership’s brand image?

Yes, installing solar panels will improve your dealership’s brand image and will position it as a forward-thinking, environmentally responsible business. Consumers are increasingly seeking out eco-friendly companies, and by adopting solar, your dealership can attract more customers who value sustainability and align with the growing electric vehicle market.

FAQ

Can solar power meet the energy-intensive demands of a paper mill?

Yes, solar systems can be designed to meet the high energy demands of paper mills. Paper mills are usually on large pieces of land which allows for a big amount of solar panels to be implemented. This will ensure that a large amount of clean energy is generated to keep the paper mill running.

FAQ

Can solar power provide backup energy during outages?

Yes, solar power can provide backup energy during outages because it can be paired with battery storage solutions to store excess energy for use during these outages. This ensures that essential public services, such as lighting, emergency services, and community centres, remain operational even during power disruptions.

FAQ

Can solar powered carports be used at a car dealership?

Absolutely. Solar powered carports are an ideal solution, providing a clean, renewable energy source to charge electric vehicles. Installing solar panels to power your EV chargers helps reduce energy costs and aligns with the growing demand for sustainability in the automotive industry.

FAQ

Can we expand our solar system if our campus grows?

Yes, you will be able to expand your solar system if your campus grows. Solar systems are designed to be scalable, so if your facility's energy needs grow due to new buildings or growing student populations, additional solar panels can be added to meet the increased demand. We can design a flexible system that can be expanded as your institution grows.

FAQ

Do I need to consider battery storage with commercial solar panels?

If your business works outside of usual business hours or has a large rooftop, then it may be a good idea to consider battery storage. A solar battery will store the excess power that your solar panels generate so that it doesn't go to waste and can be used at another time. However, not every business needs a solar battery. It depends on how much energy you use and when.

FAQ

Do commercial solar panels require maintenance?

Minimal maintenance is required but periodic checks and testing is highly recommended, if not mandatory to uphold some warranties.

FAQ

Solar

Do local councils need planning permission to install solar panels?

Generally, local councils will not need planning permission to install solar panels. In most cases, solar installations on public buildings fall under "permitted development" and do not require planning permission. However, if the buildings are listed or located in conservation areas, or if ground-mounted solar systems are being installed, planning permission may be required. It’s advisable to consult with the local planning authority to ensure compliance.

FAQ

Do schools need planning permission for solar panels?

It is not common to need planning permission for solar panel installation; however, this does depend on a few things. For example, if you want your solar panels ground-mounted, if your school is listed, or is part of a world heritage site.

FAQ

Do solar panels need planning permission for commercial buildings?

You will most likely not need planning permission for solar panels for your commercial building. Most commercial solar installations meet the requirements for Permitted Development, which allows you to carry out certain building works.

FAQ

Do solar panels need planning permission for paper mills?

You will most likely not need planning permission for solar panels for your paper mill. Most commercial solar installations meet the requirements for Permitted Development, which allows you to carry out certain building works.

FAQ

Do you need planning permission for farm solar panels on agricultural land?

No, you do not need planning permission for farm solar panels on agricultural land. The installation of solar panels on non-domestic buildings and land may be 'permitted development' with no need to apply to the Local Planning Authority for planning permission. However, ground-mounted solar systems or installations in areas with conservation restrictions may require planning approval. It's always best to consult with your local planning authority or your solar provider to confirm.

FAQ

Solar

How can an energy consultation save my business money?

An energy consultation helps identify areas where your business can reduce energy consumption and costs. By optimising energy use, implementing energy-efficient technologies, and transitioning to renewable energy sources, your business can significantly lower its energy bills, often resulting in savings of thousands or even millions of pounds over time.

FAQ

How can solar energy support irrigation on my farm?

Solar energy can easily support irrigation on your farm. Solar-powered water pumps can reduce or eliminate the need for diesel generators or grid electricity, cutting costs while ensuring a reliable water supply for crops. Solar-powered irrigation is especially useful for remote areas where grid access is limited or expensive.

FAQ

Solar

How do solar panels work for commercial applications?

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells, suitable for commercial energy needs.

FAQ

Solar

How does paper affect global warming?

Paper mills contribute towards global warming if they are not sustainably powered. The main gas that is emitted during the production of paper and cardboard is carbon dioxide. This is one of the main contributors to the acceleration of climate change and to the greenhouse effect.

FAQ

How does solar energy contribute to sustainability in logistics?

Solar energy in logistics reduces a logistics company’s carbon footprint by generating clean, renewable power and lowering reliance on fossil fuels. This aligns with sustainability goals, helps meet environmental regulations, and demonstrates a commitment to eco-friendly practices, which can enhance your brand's reputation with customers and partners.

FAQ

How does solar energy improve the efficiency of logistics operations?

Solar energy increases efficiency by providing a reliable, renewable energy source that powers your logistics operations consistently. This ensures smooth day-to-day operations, minimises downtime from power outages, and helps logistics companies meet sustainability goals without sacrificing performance.

FAQ

How does solar energy improve the value of commercial real estate?

Investing in solar energy will increase the market value of your commercial real estate because it will be more attractive to prospective buyers and tenants. This enhanced marketability can lead to higher sale prices or rental income.

FAQ

How does solar help protect our educational facility from rising energy costs?

Solar in schools, colleges, and universities helps protect your educational facility from rising energy costs by generating free energy from the sun. This eliminates your reliance on energy from the grid that is expensive. This shields your educational facility from unpredictable utility rate increases and ensures stable, predictable energy costs for years to come.

FAQ

How does solar power help car dealerships meet sustainability goals?

Solar power helps car dealerships meet sustainability goals because it is a clean, renewable power source that reduces a dealership’s reliance on fossil fuels, which significantly lowers carbon emissions. By adopting solar power, your dealership will demonstrate your commitment to environmental sustainability, appeal to eco-conscious customers, and align with manufacturers that prioritise green practices.

FAQ

How does solar power help councils meet their sustainability goals?

Solar power can help councils meet their sustainability goals due to their carbon emissions decreasing dramatically. Solar power is clean and renewable and reduces the reliance that businesses may have on fossil fuels. By adopting solar, councils can meet national and local sustainability targets, demonstrate leadership in environmental responsibility, and promote eco-friendly practices within their communities.

FAQ

How does solar power help paper mills reduce their carbon footprint?

Solar power helps paper mills reduce their carbon footprint by producing clean and renewable energy that reduces a reliance on fossil fuels. As a result of this, there will be a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

FAQ

How does solar power improve energy independence for logistics operations?

Solar energy allows your logistics company to generate its own electricity on-site, reducing reliance on the grid and fluctuating energy prices. This independence is especially valuable during grid outages, as solar systems paired with energy storage solutions (like batteries) can provide backup power and reduce costly downtime.

FAQ

How does solar power improve the sustainability of a leisure facility?

Solar power improves the sustainability of a leisure facility by allowing your facility to reduce its carbon footprint and by saving on energy costs. Using solar energy will also give your leisure facility a reputation for being environmentally friendly, contributing to the Net Zero target.

FAQ

How does solar power protect care homes from rising energy costs?

Solar power protects care homes from rising energy costs because you are generating your own electricity which means that your building is less reliant on grid power. Your building is then protected from fluctuating energy prices Solar energy offers stable, predictable costs for 25+ years, giving you better control over the operational expenses of your facility.

FAQ

How does solar power protect councils from rising energy costs?

Solar power protects councils from rising energy costs by generating their own electricity, which means they are less reliant on the grid. Local councils can also budget more effectively due to more stable and predictable costs.

FAQ

How does solar power protect councils from rising energy costs?

FAQ

How does solar power protect my commercial property from rising energy costs?

Solar power protects your commercial property from rising energy costs because you are generating your own electricity, which means that your building is less reliant on grid power. Your building is then protected from fluctuating energy prices. Solar energy offers stable, predictable costs for 25+ years, giving you better control over your building’s operating expenses.

FAQ

How long do commercial solar batteries last?

Solar batteries typically last 10-15 years.

FAQ

Battery storage

How long do commercial solar panels last?

Commercial solar panels typically last 25-30 years.

FAQ

Solar

How long does an energy consultation take?

An energy consultation can take up to a couple of weeks, but this all depends on the complexity and size of your business. This will include the initial assessment.

FAQ

How long does it take to install solar panels at a leisure facility?

The amount of time it takes to install solar panels will depend on the size of your facility. Most solar systems can be implemented in a few weeks or months, however. The process of installing solar panels includes energy audits, system design, permitting, and installation.

FAQ

How long does it take to install solar panels for car dealerships?

The amount of time it takes to install solar panels for car dealerships will depend on the size of your facility. Most solar systems can be implemented in a few weeks or months, however. The process of installing solar panels includes energy audits, system design, permitting, and installation.

FAQ

How long does it take to install solar panels on a farm?

The amount of time it takes to instal solar panels on a farm depends on the size and complexity of the project, but most installations are completed within a few weeks to a few months. Solar providers will work with you to ensure minimal disruption to your farming operations during the installation process.

FAQ

How long does it take to install solar panels on council-owned buildings?

The amount of time it takes to install solar panels on council-owned buildings will depend on the size of the building and the complexity of the project. Generally speaking, solar installations on council-owned buildings can be completed within a few weeks or months.

FAQ

How many solar panels do leisure centres need?

The amount of solar panels that your leisure centre will need depends on a few different factors, such as the amount of space available, the type of roofing you have, the energy demands of your leisure centre, and your budget.

FAQ

How much electricity can a commercial solar panel generate?

With power ratings ranging between 250W and 500W per panel, commercial solar systems can produce substantial amounts of electricity, which significantly reduces your energy costs. The efficiency of these solar systems, however, depends on factors such as location, angle and orientation, temperature, and shading.

FAQ

How much energy can industrial solar panels generate for a manufacturing facility?

The amount of energy industrial solar panels can generate depends on factors like the size of your facility, the number of panels installed, your location, and the available sunlight. Solar systems for manufacturing businesses are highly scalable and can be designed to meet the specific energy demands of your operations, whether you require energy for large-scale machinery or continuous production lines.

FAQ

How much space is needed for commercial solar panels?

It depends on the energy needs and nature of the space, whether there is shading and other factors.

FAQ

Solar

How much will installing industrial solar panels cost for my manufacturing business?

The cost of installing industrial solar panels depends on the size of your manufacturing facility, your energy needs, and the type of solar system you choose (roof-mounted, ground-mounted, or integrated with energy storage). There are also tax incentives and capital allowance support for your business when you implement commercial solar, which will help lower your costs.

FAQ

How will installing solar panels affect my property value?

Installing solar panels typically increases the value of a commercial property. Energy-efficient buildings with lower operating costs and sustainable features are more attractive to potential buyers and tenants. Solar power can make your property stand out in the market, helping you command higher rents or sale prices.

FAQ

Is it disruptive to install solar panels in a care home?

Installation can be scheduled to minimise disruption to residents and staff. It typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the system size, and can be managed around care home routines to ensure minimal impact and discomfort on your residents.

FAQ

Is my manufacturing facility a good candidate for commercial solar?

Most manufacturing facilities are excellent candidates for solar power, especially those with large, unobstructed roof space or surrounding land. The energy demands of manufacturing align well with the consistent power generation solar offers. To determine if your facility is ideal, we will conduct an energy consultation and site assessment to evaluate your solar potential.

FAQ

Is solar power scalable if my car dealership grows?

Yes, solar systems are scalable and can be expanded if your dealership grows or your energy needs increase. Additional panels can be added to your existing system to meet higher energy demands, making solar a flexible solution for businesses with evolving needs.

FAQ

What are the benefits of industrial solar panel installations for a manufacturing business?

Industrial solar panel installations for a manufacturing business have several benefits, including reducing your carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability—not to mention the reduction in your energy bills.

FAQ

What are the benefits of solar energy for businesses?

Solar energy reduces operational costs, enhances sustainability, and offers long-term financial savings.

FAQ

Solar

What are the government incentives for installing commercial solar panels?

The government incentives for installing commercial solar panels include up to £5,000 for low-carbon upgrades (solar panel installations) for small and medium businesses in some areas of England. The government also offers Power Purchase Agreements with no upfront costs for solar panel installations. Your business will also be able to buy solar electricity at a cheaper rate. These incentives are all in efforts to achieve Net Zero by 2050.

FAQ

What financial benefits can care homes gain from solar panels?

There are a few financial benefits from installing solar panels in your care home, for example, tax allowance and VAT exemptions. Business are able to claim 100% VAT exemption on energy saving materials and 100% first year tax allowance on ECO assets, which allows the full cost of the solar equipment to be deducted from any profits made.

FAQ

What financial incentives are available for farmers who install agricultural solar panels?

There are several financial incentives for farmers who install agricultural solar panels, including the UK government's tax credits, grants, local rebates, and financing options such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). These incentives help reduce upfront costs and make solar installations more affordable. Solar providers can help you navigate these opportunities to maximise your financial benefits.

FAQ

What happens at the end of the PPA term?

At the end of the agreement, you may choose to extend the PPA, purchase the system, or have it removed at no cost.

FAQ

What happens if the solar system underperforms?

Our PPAs come with performance guarantees. If the system underperforms, we will assess and rectify the issue at no additional cost to you. Maintenance and system optimisation are included in the agreement, ensuring that you only pay for the energy that the solar system produces.

FAQ

What incentives are available for educational institutions that want to install solar?

Having solar in schools, colleges, or universities will allow you to take advantage of financial incentives, such as government grants, local rebates, and special financing options like Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). These incentives can reduce upfront installation costs and accelerate the return on investment. Non-profit schools, in particular, benefit from PPAs that allow them to install solar with little to no upfront cost.

FAQ

What is G100 Export Limitation?

G100 defines the parameters of Export and Import Limitation Schemes. It therefore enables a Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to define import and export limitations on a grid connection.

FAQ

Solar

What is a commercial solar battery?

A solar battery stores excess energy generated by commercial solar panels.

FAQ

Battery storage

What is an energy consultation?

An energy consultation includes an in-depth assessment of the amount of energy it uses. During the consultation, a business's energy needs are also assessed, as well as project goals and site-specific requirements. Through this, energy consultants are able to understand a business's unique situations and provide it with a tailored solar solution.

FAQ

What is commercial solar?

Commercial solar is the use of solar power through solar panels to power commercial properties and businesses, such as factories and offices. Commercial solar panels are usually bigger than residential ones because they need to capture more sunlight and produce more electricity.

FAQ

What is the initial cost of installing solar panels for businesses?

The cost varies dependent on the size and nature of the system. Financial options with no upfront cost are available.

FAQ

Solar

What is the typical length of a PPA?

Most PPAs range from 10 to 25 years, depending on your business needs. Customisable options are available.

FAQ

What kind of businesses can benefit from energy consultations?

Any kind of business will benefit from an energy consultation, such as offices, retail stores, manufacturing facilities, and warehouses. Regardless of size or industry, any business can gain valuable insights from an energy consultation.

FAQ

What maintenance does a solar system require?

Solar systems are low-maintenance and designed to operate for 25+ years. Routine inspections and occasional cleaning are usually all that’s needed to ensure the system continues to perform efficiently. Most systems come with performance monitoring, allowing issues to be identified and addressed promptly, without any impact on school operations.

FAQ

What types of energy efficiency measures might be recommended?

The types of energy efficiency measures that might be recommended include upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, improving HVAC systems, implementing smart building technologies, optimising equipment usage, and transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar.

FAQ

Where can solar panels be installed by a paper mill?

Solar panels can be installed on large, flat rooftops or open land areas that are often available at paper mills. Rooftop systems make use of unused space, while ground-mounted solar arrays can turn open land into energy-generating assets without interfering with production activities.

FAQ

Why is the paper industry so energy-intensive?

The paper industry is so energy-intensive because paper production is heat-intensive, mainly due to the large amounts of water to be evaporated in drying pulp and paper. Paper mills use up a colossal amount of energy to produce paper, which is why sustainable practices are vitally important in this industry.

FAQ

Why should my commercial real estate business invest in commercial solar?

Your commercial real estate business should invest in commercial solar because you will be saving copious amounts of money on energy bills. Your business will also be adhering to its corporate responsibility of prioritising sustainability and green energy.

FAQ

Will industrial solar panel installation disrupt my manufacturing operations?

No, industrial solar panel installation will not disrupt your manufacturing operations. Installing industrial solar panels is typically non-intrusive and is designed to minimise disruptions. The installation process is carefully planned to ensure that manufacturing operations can continue without significant interruptions. Roof-mounted systems generally have little to no impact on day-to-day operations, while ground-mounted systems are installed in areas that do not interfere with production.

FAQ

Will installing solar disrupt our school's daily operations?

Installing solar panels in schools is designed to be as non-disruptive as possible. Most solar panel installations will occur over the school holidays or during times that don’t interfere with daily activities. The process can be completed in stages to ensure that classroom time, campus activities, and school operations continue smoothly.

FAQ

Will installing solar panels disrupt our logistics operations?

Solar panel installations for logistics companies are designed to minimise disruption. Solar providers typically schedule installations during off-peak times or work in phases to ensure that your logistics operations continue smoothly. Whether it's a rooftop or ground-mounted system, the process is efficient and non-intrusive.

FAQ

Will solar panels increase the value of commercial property?

Yes, solar panels can increase property value given that they are installed with a forward thinking outlook.

FAQ

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We've been kept up to date, its run smoothly, minimal disruptions and we've been very happy overall.

The system is helping us apply for tenders. A lot of tenders now ask you how you are working towards Net Zero. Solar has been great in helping us demonstrate that.

Andy Kidger

Facilities Manager

Baltic Apprenticeships

Client testimonials

Solar

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I would highly recommend Sustain Commercial Solar to other UK businesses.

Sustain's ongoing support has been amazing. They've delivered on all projects in a timely manner and caused minimal disruption to our tenants.

Javed Sattar

Portfolio Manager

Custodian Capital

Client testimonials

Solar

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The economics just make sense.

We have made enormous savings on our costs. We now make a 6 figure income on the energy generated by our system.

Robert Moss

Managing Director

Moss Electrical

Client testimonials

Solar

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Book your free consultation today

We can give you extensive projections on various commercial solar options with some basic usage data and a video call.

Once you have entered your contact information, you'll be redirected to book some time with our team.

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Empowering UK businesses for a sustainable future and predictable energy cost savings.

Empowering UK businesses for a sustainable future and predictable energy cost savings.