Commercial solar panels paired with commercial battery storage systems offer a robust solution for businesses seeking to optimise their energy consumption and reduce costs. This combination allows you to harness solar energy during peak production hours and store excess power for use when the sun isn’t shining or during periods of high demand.
These technologies won’t just generate clean energy for your business. They will also allow you to gain a degree of control over how and when you use it. With less reliance on the grid and a buffer against rising energy costs and power outages, you can run a more resilient business.
However, it’s better suited to some businesses than others. So, let’s run through how the system works, what the advantages could be, and explain what might make your business a good candidate.
How Commercial Solar Panels and Battery Storage Works
The principle behind this system is straightforward. During daylight hours, your solar panels generate electricity. Any excess energy not immediately used by your business is directed to the battery storage system. When solar production decreases or stops, such as during periods of thick cloud or at night, you can utilise the stored energy to help power your operations.
This setup ensures a consistent energy supply, smoothing out the peaks and troughs of solar generation. It also allows you to tap into stored power during times when grid electricity is most expensive, further optimising your energy costs.
Financial Advantages
Investing in a combined commercial solar panel and battery storage system can provide substantial financial benefits for your business. You’ll see a significant reduction in energy costs as you’ll be generating and using your own clean electricity. This self-reliance acts as a shield against the volatile nature of energy prices, offering long-term cost stability.
Moreover, with the ability to store energy, you can participate in demand response programmes or sell excess electricity back to the grid during peak times, potentially creating an additional revenue stream. The initial investment may seem substantial, but the long-term savings and potential earnings make it a financially sound decision for many businesses.
Key Considerations for Implementation
Before installing commercial solar and battery storage, it’s crucial to assess your business’s specific needs and capabilities. Firstly, you’ll need to consider the available space for solar panel installation, whether on your roof or ground-mounted. You’ll also need to allocate room for the battery storage system, which is typically housed indoors. This can represent a significant footprint at a commercial scale, but wall-mounting can help keep space lost to a minimum.
The initial investment can be significant, encompassing the cost of solar panels, batteries, inverters, and installation. However, it’s essential to view this as a long-term investment. Calculate your potential savings and the timeline for return on investment (ROI). Many businesses find that the system pays for itself within six or seven years, followed by decades of reduced energy costs.
Is Your Business a Good Candidate?
As mentioned, while this setup should suit nearly all commercial enterprises, some businesses are particularly well-suited to benefit from combined solar and battery storage systems. These include:
- High daytime energy users (e.g., retail shops and supermarkets)
- Businesses with large roofs or vacant land space
- Companies aiming for sustainability goals and official environmental credentials such as carbon neutrality
- Organisations vulnerable to power outages (e.g., holiday parks in more rural locations)
In short, if your business operates primarily during daylight hours, requires significant electricity, or aims to reduce its carbon footprint, you’re likely to see substantial benefits from this technology.
Future-Proof Your Energy Strategy with Applegarth Today
Implementing a commercial solar and battery storage system is an excellent strategy for futureproofing your business against rising energy costs and shifting public consciousness toward eco-friendly practices. As energy prices rise and environmental regulations tighten, having your own renewable energy source can place you ahead of the competition.
These systems are also scalable. As your business grows or your energy needs change, you can expand your solar array or increase your storage capacity. This flexibility ensures that your energy solution can evolve with your business, providing long-term value and adaptability.
If you’re ready to explore how combining commercial solar panels with battery storage can benefit your business, Applegarth is here to guide you through every step of the process. Our team of experts can assess your specific needs, design a tailored system, and provide top-notch installation and ongoing support.
Contact us today to discuss your energy future. Call us at 0151 649 8350 or email us at info@applegarth.co.uk. Let’s work together to create an energy solution that will power your business efficiently and sustainably for years to come.
