Solar Energy for Business: Is it Worth the Investment?

With growing awareness of the environmental impact of traditional energy sources and rising electricity costs, companies are seeking more economical and eco-friendly solutions.

In today’s business landscape, operational efficiency and sustainability are essential, and one of the main challenges is reducing costs without compromising service quality or cutting back on the workforce.

In this context, the advantage of solar energy for business emerges as a powerful tool for boosting profitability and competitiveness. As a result, adopting solar energy systems to power business operations is becoming an increasingly popular and advantageous choice.

How does the use of solar energy work in businesses?

The main question about solar energy is how it actually works... Is it as simple as installing panels? How does the system work at night? Or on rainy days?

Solar energy for businesses starts with the installation of photovoltaic panels on the property. The number of panels, their positioning, and other details depend on the size of the property and its energy demand.

Once installed, the panels begin generating electricity. However, this energy needs to be converted by a device  called a photovoltaic inverter.

After conversion, the energy must be used or stored elsewhere, such as to batteries. For this reason, solar energy systems in businesses or homes are connected to the city’s energy distribution grid (a system known as "on-grid").

This way, all energy generated powers your equipment directly, and any excess is sent to the city’s distribution grid. Then at night when the panels are not active, your energy continues to be supplied from the grid.

And what about on rainy or cloudy days?

As we know, solar panels generate energy from sunlight, so adverse weather conditions can affect their efficiency. However, solar panels can still produce electricity on rainy or cloudy days, albeit at a reduced level. It’s important to assess your business's location and average sunlight hours to determine if solar panels are a valuable investment.

What Is the Cost of Installing Solar for Business?

The cost of installing solar for business varies according to the size and specific needs of each project. The more solar energy the system needs to produce, the greater the demand for photovoltaic panels and other equipment required to build an effective system.

To get an accurate cost, it’s best to speak with a supplier and request a quote. While the initial cost might be pricey, it’s possible to obtain financing or government subsidies that help support solar investments. Typically, the payback period (the time it takes for the system’s savings to cover the initial investment) ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on the project's scale.

What Are the Benefits of Using Solar Energy for Business? Here Are 4 Key Advantages!

If you're not yet convinced about investing in solar energy, learning about its benefits might help give a new perspective. Here are some advantages of using solar energy for business:

1. Energy Cost Reduction

One of the biggest perks of installing solar energy for businesses is the reduction in electricity costs. A company operating heavy machinery, for example, can spend thousands of pounds on electricity bills.

However, with a solar energy system capable of meeting its entire demand, this cost could drop to only the minimum fee. Of course, not all businesses have the space to implement a large system, but even a smaller setup can provide significant savings.

2. Sustainable Production

Using solar energy for business allows your production line to become more sustainable by reducing your business's carbon footprint - this is crucial, as businesses are responsible for a large portion of environmental impact.

3. Positive Marketing

Every business needs good publicity, and solar energy can contribute to that. Installing a solar system and adopting sustainable practices can make consumers view the business more positively.

In fact, according to a NielsenIQ survey, 66% of consumers are willing to pay more for products and services from companies committed to positive social and environmental impacts, and . 55% of the British population prefers to buy products and services from sustainable companies according to Realtime Reports.

4. Low Maintenance Costs

Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance. Most come with a 25-year warranty, and with proper care their lifespan can extend even further. This low-maintenance setup allows your business to benefit from solar energy for many years with minimal ongoing expenses.

Trust Grid Neutral,  a Leading Provider of Solar Panels for Business

When it comes to implementing commercial solar energy in your business, partnering with a reliable and experienced company is essential to ensuring project success. That’s where Grid Neutral, a solar energy solutions provider for Sheffield, Yorkshire, Humberside, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Lincolnshire, stands out as a leader in solar energy solutions.

With a solid and recognised track record in the market, Grid Neutral offers expertise in all aspects of commercial solar energy. From the initial analysis of your business's energy needs to the installation and maintenance of photovoltaic systems, we are committed to delivering high-quality, customised solutions to each client’s specific needs. Contact Us.