Solar Panels for Commercial Buildings

Cut energy costs and future-proof your business with solar PV.

Benefits of investing in solar power

  • 15 to 20% Annual Return on Investment or as short as 3 year payback.
  • Turn energy overheads into profits.
  • Protect yourself from energy price volatility / price changes
  • Demonstrate business responsibility and enhance your environmental reputation.

What is Solar PV or Solar Panels?

Solar PV (Photovoltaic) is a proven renewable energy technology that enables businesses to generate their own clean electricity on-site. Roof or ground-mounted solar panels capture energy from the sun and convert it into power that can be used directly in your facilities, warehouses, or factories.

Because Solar PV produces zero carbon emissions during operation, every kilowatt generated helps lower your business’s carbon footprint and reduces your reliance on fossil fuels. It’s a robust, low-maintenance solution with no moving parts and a lifespan of decades, delivering reliable energy and long-term savings.

Most systems connect to the national grid, allowing surplus electricity to be exported, but ZLC Energy can also offer off-grid commercial solar solutions with integrated battery storage for businesses looking for greater energy independence and resilience.

Solar PV Applications for Commercial Buildings

As UK companies push towards greater sustainability, solar has become one of the most effective ways to reduce carbon emissions and unlock long-term savings. Harness the power of the sun to lower costs, boost efficiency, and move closer to net zero.

Roof Mounted
Solar Panel Systems

Roof-mounted solar makes the most of unused commercial roof space, turning it into a clean energy asset for your business. It’s a low-maintenance, scalable solution that reduces grid reliance and supports your net zero goals.

Ground Mounted
Solar Panel Systems

Ground-mounted solar is ideal for businesses with available land, offering large-scale renewable energy generation without impacting roof space. These systems are typically considered when a roof-mounted option isn’t viable. They can be tailored to deliver significant long-term cost and carbon savings while making the most of unused ground areas.

Carport with
Solar Panels

Solar carports are an increasingly popular way for UK businesses to make the most of unused parking areas while generating clean, renewable energy. With options to integrate EV charging and LED lighting, they provide practical benefits for car park users and a visible statement of your commitment to low-carbon innovation on site.

Solar
Battery Storage

Pairing solar PV with battery storage allows businesses to store excess energy for use when it’s needed most. This boosts resilience, cuts peak-time costs, and ensures greater energy independence.

Why Leading Clients Choose Us

Personal service

We pride ourselves on being approachable, responsive, and easy to work with.
Every client has a dedicated point of contact, clear communication, and support at every stage, from first consultation to ongoing system monitoring.

Knowledge & Expertise

With over 15 years of experience in renewable energy, our team brings deep technical expertise. As accredited installers and innovators in solar, battery storage, and EV infrastructure, we know how to create reliable systems tailored to your sector and specific site.

Passion & detail

At ZLC Energy, we care deeply about getting every project right. From the initial site survey to the final handover, we bring precision, attention to detail, and genuine passion for renewable energy, ensuring systems that perform efficiently for years to come.

Value for money

We design commercial renewable energy solutions that deliver maximum long-term savings. By combining efficient technologies with smart design, we help businesses cut energy costs and achieve strong returns on investment, without unnecessary extras.

What our customers say

"Mark and the team have provided excellent follow-up care and continue to support us with our energy requirements. I would happily recommend ZLC Energy."

Bill Clarke

Managing Director, Trewithen Dairy

"The service from ZLC Energy has been excellent throughout, with every deadline being met without fail. ZLC Energy were in control so we didn’t have to stress about the different stages. We’ve been so impressed with the team that we’ve had them back many times to install more solar!"

Robin Freight

DipCEA Compliance Officer, St Austell Brewery

“ZLC Energy were amazingly efficient. They undertook considerable works without any disruption to the business at one of our busiest times. Mark, of ZLC Energy, coordinated everything with us from start to finish. I’d happily recommend them as a company to work with.”

Alan Murdoch

Director, Fermoys Garden Centre

"The project was required to be completed in a tight timeframe to meet funding deadlines. ZLC did a great job and completed the works ahead of time and under budget. Thank you to the ZLC team, great work!!"

Alastair Gets

Low Carbon City Officer, Plymouth City Council

FAQS

1. How much does a solar panel installation cost for a commercial property?

The cost varies depending on the project type, size, and installation method (roof, ground, or carport), as well as factors like roof type (slate, flat, or metal) and scaffolding requirements. Every project is unique, so we provide tailored quotes. Contact us for a detailed assessment and estimate for your business.

2. Do I need planning permission to install Solar PV?

In most cases, rooftop and carport solar PV installations are permitted development and don’t require planning permission. Ground-mounted systems, listed buildings, conservation areas, or properties with removed permitted development rights may need approval. Our team can advise you during the design and planning stage, get in touch for guidance.

3. Do my solar panels need regular cleaning and maintenance?

Yes. We recommend annual inspections and maintenance for commercial PV systems, and cleaning where necessary to maximise efficiency. Many insurers now require commercial PV systems to be under a maintenance contract. We can provide full maintenance packages, see our Maintenance page for more details.

4. Is my business suitable for solar panels?

Almost all commercial buildings are suitable for solar PV. Systems are especially beneficial for businesses with high energy demands. We assess suitability during the design phase to ensure your system delivers maximum financial and environmental benefit. Learn more about our design process by contacting us today.

5. How long does a solar PV installation take?

Installation times vary depending on size and complexity. Medium-scale commercial projects typically take 2–6 weeks, including site setup, deliveries, scaffolding, installation, commissioning, and handover. Our project managers keep you informed every step of the way.

6. Do I need approval from the National Grid or my local DNO?

Yes. All commercial PV installations require approval from the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before connection. Grid constraints may lead to export limitations, which we manage on your behalf prior to installation, ensuring a smooth process.

7. Are solar panels ethically sourced?

Yes. ZLC Energy uses fully traceable panels from manufacturers who are members of the Solar Stewardship Initiative (SSI). This ensures responsible sourcing and avoids unethical practices in the supply chain.

8. Can ZLC Energy help with financing my solar PV installation?

Yes. While we don’t directly provide finance, we offer finance through trusted third-party providers to help spread the cost of installation. We can also offer a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) option, where ZLC Energy installs the system at no upfront cost, and your business pays the PPA provider a discounted rate for the electricity generated. This is a popular option for private companies looking to benefit from solar without large capital expenditure.

Note: These finance options are less commonly used by public sector organisations, who often fund installations through capital budgets or grants. Contact us to discuss which solution could work best for your business.

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