BrightGridA commercial solar project should be evaluated as an investment rather than simply an equipment purchase. The strongest business cases combine energy data, system design, installation cost and long-term operational strategy.
Start with electricity consumption
The first step is understanding how much electricity the business uses, when it uses it and how that demand may change in the future.
Build the solar design
The design should consider roof area, orientation, shading, panel layout, inverter capacity, electrical infrastructure and expected generation.
Calculate self-consumption
Electricity generated and consumed on-site can offset electricity that the business would otherwise purchase from the grid.
Model exported electricity
Any expected surplus should be modelled using realistic export assumptions rather than assuming all generation receives the same value as imported electricity.
Evaluate battery storage separately
A battery should be evaluated according to the additional value it creates compared with its additional installation and operating cost.
Include future electricity demand
- EV fleet charging
- Electric machinery
- Heat pumps
- Refrigeration expansion
- Warehouse automation
- New production equipment
- Additional buildings
Calculate the investment return
A useful commercial model considers installation cost, annual generation, self-consumption, export value, maintenance, equipment replacement assumptions and expected operating period.
Use your own business data
Generic solar payback figures can be useful for early research, but a commercial investment decision should use the actual sites electricity profile and proposed system design.
Questions for the final investment decision
- What is the total installed cost?
- What annual generation is expected?
- How much electricity will be used on site?
- What export value has been assumed?
- Is battery storage financially justified?
- What grid work is required?
- What maintenance is expected?
- What future energy demand should be included?
- What is the expected investment return?
Build your commercial solar business case
Use your electricity data, roof information and future energy plans to develop a commercial solar proposal.
Request a Commercial AssessmentFrequently asked questions
How do I calculate commercial solar ROI?
Compare the total installed investment with the expected financial value of self-consumed generation, export income and other relevant benefits over the project period.
What information does a commercial solar installer need?
Useful information includes electricity consumption data, site details, roof information, electrical supply information and future energy plans.
Should a business add batteries to commercial solar?
It depends on the electricity profile, tariffs, battery cost and expected operating strategy.
Is commercial solar worth it for businesses?
It can be particularly attractive for businesses with substantial daytime electricity demand and suitable roof or ground space.
Can commercial solar reduce electricity bills?
Yes. Solar generation consumed on site can reduce the amount of electricity purchased from the grid.
Jonathan Ellis
Commercial Energy Strategy Lead at BrightGrid Energy
