Commercial Solar
FULLY FUNDED
Reduce your business costs and secure your future with Solar Panels.
How can my business save money?
Commercial Solar PV Funding
Bee Eco now provide fully funded solar installations for commercial units approximately 100sqm in size at no cost to the business owner. This solar pv system funding is applied under a Purchase Power Agreement (PPA) model between the funders, the landlords and the tenants.
How does the Bee Eco solar funding process work?
The agreement involves the funders requesting to lease the airspace above the roof of the property. Bee Eco design the system in line with your requirements. The funders purchase the equipment required and Bee Eco performs the installation in 6 – 12 weeks.
The funder then sells the electricity that you use back to you at a much cheaper rate. Once the lease is complete, the solar system belongs to the owners of the property.
As energy prices increase, this is a seamless approach for a business to reduce their bills at no cost to them.
How much could you save on electricity?
If your current provider chargers £0.60 per watt, the funders only charge between £0.30-£0.25 for the use of energy generated by the solar system (subject to consumption). Saving businesses like yours approximately 50% on bills.
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Bee Eco Solar Installations:
Additional FAQ's
Where can you Install Solar Panels?
This is an incredibly exciting topic. Solar panels are being installed at an increasing rate and the way they are installed is increasing too which only helps. Every solar panel site must be inspected for the most appropriate types of “mounting kits” to ensure the space is maximised.
Flat Roof Solar Panels
Panels can be laid in tubs or on frames to achieve optimal elevations for maximum sunlight exposure. South / South-East / South-West roofs are most appropriate.
Pitched Roof Solar
Ideal for solar installations, standard metal fixing frames are used on pitched roofs. These frames secure panels directly on top of existing roof tiles or surfaces.
In-Roof Solar
When fitting a new roof, consider in-roof solar installations to save on material and labor costs. This system replaces a section of tiles and lies flush with the overall roof surface, making it suitable for new builds and renovations.
Solar Slate
Listed properties can benefit from solar slate tiles, providing the appearance of a standard slate tile roof while generating solar power.
Façade
Solar panels can be integrated into the façade of your building as an alternative to roof installations.
Ground Mounted Solar
Ground-mounted solar panels are a great option for people who want to generate their own electricity from the sun, but their roof isn’t suitable for rooftop solar panels. They are also a good choice for people who have a lot of land and want to generate a lot of power.
Here are some of the benefits of ground-mounted solar panels:
- More flexibility in placement: You can place ground-mounted solar panels anywhere on your property that gets a lot of sun. This is especially helpful if your roof is shaded or has a complex shape.
- Better efficiency: Ground-mounted solar panels can be tilted at an optimal angle to the sun, which can increase their efficiency by up to 20%.
- Easier access for maintenance: Ground-mounted solar panels are easier to access for maintenance and cleaning than rooftop solar panels.
- Potential for dual use: You can use the space under your ground-mounted solar panels for other purposes, such as gardening or parking.
However, there are also some drawbacks to ground-mounted solar panels:
- Higher initial cost: Ground-mounted solar panels typically cost more to install than rooftop solar panels, because they require additional materials and labor.
- More land required: You will need to have enough land available to install ground-mounted solar panels.
- Potential for visual impact: Ground-mounted solar panels can be visually obtrusive, especially if they are large.
Overall, ground-mounted solar panels are a great option for people who want to generate their own electricity from the sun and have the space to do so. However, it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.
What is included in a Solar PV System?
The Solar Panels
As an independent business, we are not tied to using a particular brand of solar panel. We only use Tier 1 panels such as the Sunpower Maxeon or Aiko Solar brand that are highly efficient and powerful. These panels are appropriate for residential and commercial installation.
The Inverters
Inverters come in two forms. You can either have a single central location for your inverters such as a garage or utility room or place these per panel. We recommend having an inverter per panel as this creates a superior monitoring system. We use Emphase like to use the Enphase inverter.
Batteries
Batteries are usually optional depending on how much energy you at what time. However, if we can, we will always try to see if we can make a battery work. As there are longer-term benefits. Battery technology is improving every year and we always use the most up-to-date models. At the moment we utilise the Solax suite of batteries as they have a nice balance between warranty, price, specifications and size.
Mounting Kits
Mounting kits are one of the most project-specific elements. We use standard mounting kits that replace tiles for residential and usually some standard rails for commercial projects. However, this is very roof-type and surface dependent.
Cables and Accesories
These are relatively standard electrical components that only really vary in the amount we need per project. Our software automatically creates our list of accessories we require for each project.
Why use Bee Eco to install your Solar Panel System??
First of all, Bee Eco have years of solar panel design experience. Our diverse array of projects has allowed us to design around many different challenges such as, “shading”, navigating tricky access to roofs and angelling panels differently.
Faster solar installers than most
We use drones and 3D models to survey your roof prior to the structural survey. This decreases the total time of the install from the industry standard by ensuring we have done the most due diligence remotely as possible.
Trusted models and high level data from tier 1 manufacturers.
Bee Eco specifically use Tier 1 Manufactuers of solar panels. This means they produce the solar panel in-house and have been operating for more than 5 years. This ensures our solar models are accurate and robust which is imperative when it comes to predicting the future KW production of your system.
Truly customizable
Bee Eco pride ourselves on flexibility due to the vast options of funding/financing available, solar panel and battery suppliers. Every business is different and the solar system needs to be designed with your individual needs. We discuss your business and KW/h usage in depth and use our solar architects to design the best system possible.
Here are a few factors we need to consider:
- Shading
- Your monthly usage of electricity
- Your compass bearing
- The space available on your roof
- The load bearing capacity of your roof
The Solar Panel Installation Process
Initial Conversation
Every solar panel installation starts with a conversation between Bee Eco’s design experts and the client. You can either call us or use our online form to send us some information about your project.
If you want to find out what you can save online, you can use our online solar quoting tool.
Follow up call and initial proposal
Once we have had a chat and understood your requirements we will produce an initial proposal using our high-tech solar panel system modelling software.
This will outline your savings in terms of KW/h generated and money saved per year.
Site Survey
Should the project advance, we will schedule a survey to personally visit the site and delve deeper into the installation details. During the visit, we’ll examine the roof and external space, determining the optimal placement for panels, inverters, and cable runs.
A site visit allows us to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the project and evaluate associated costs. It serves as an ideal occasion for a detailed conversation regarding products, warranties, and provides you with ample opportunities to pose any questions you may have.
Formal Proposal
After the on-site survey is concluded, our surveyor will confer with the team, address any questions raised during the visit, and furnish you with a customized quote for your review.
The formal proposal comes in the form of a PDF that will outline the day-to-day performance of your system.
Upon receiving approval, your project transitions to our operations team, marking the commencement of turning your renewable energy plans into a reality.
Planning and DNO (District Network Operator) Applications
For regular residential properties, obtaining planning permission is unnecessary, unless the property is listed or situated in a conservative area, and as long as the installation adheres to specified guidelines.
Standalone panels, too, can be set up without seeking planning permission, though the array’s size is capped at 9m² and 4m in height, with a requirement that it be at least 5m away from the property.
Generally, the criteria for commercial installations mirror those for domestic setups. Nevertheless, we offer tailored guidance based on your unique circumstances. Our team takes care of all planning requisites on your behalf, handling local planning applications and coordinating with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to facilitate the connection of your system to the electricity network.
In order to do this on your behalf, we require a letter of authority to be signed which allows us to communicate with the grid and your energy provider on your behalf. Ideally, we need to have this signed as early as possible in the process as response times can vary.
Pre-installation Technical Survey
A pair of key members from our technical team will conduct a site visit to determine the scaffolding and access equipment specifications, finalize the installation process, and ensure comprehensive preparedness for the installation phase. Any concerns identified in the initial survey will be thoroughly evaluated, and a plan or resolution will be mutually agreed upon. This may involve considering alternative cable routes or making slight modifications to the design.
Upon scheduling the pre-installation survey, you will receive a tentative installation date.
Following our on-site visit, we will confirm this date with you.
Installation
Approximately a week before your scheduled installation, our scheduling team will reach out to you to ensure that everything remains on schedule. They will confirm start dates, address any upcoming deliveries, and, if necessary, discuss the erection of scaffolding.
Throughout the installation, our scheduling team will be available, and a designated site contact will provide regular updates on the progress. Leveraging our extensive experience of over 10 years in installing Solar PV, our goal is to ensure a seamlessly smooth process from inception to completion.
Commissioning and Handover
Upon the completion of the installation, a team member will guide you through the system on the final day and provide an explanation of its functioning.
Additionally, you will be enrolled in online monitoring, should you have chosen this option.
Paper Work and System Admin
Upon finishing the installation, our electricians will furnish you with a comprehensive schematic detailing the new system and the placement of the solar PV components. Additionally, you will receive the electrical certificate, a solar array test report, and a complete Operations & Maintenance Manual. If your project meets the criteria, you can anticipate receiving a Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certificate within two or three days after we register your installation.
Aftercare and Monitoring
If you come across any problems or have concerns, feel free to reach out to our team. We’re more than willing to address issues either through phone support or by revisiting the site as needed.
We strongly advise an annual service and system check to guarantee the ongoing optimal performance of your system!
Commercial Solar Pv Funding
Bee Eco now provide fully funded solar installations for commercial units approximately 100sqm in size at no cost to the business owner. This solar pv system funding is applied under a Purchase Power Agreement (PPA) model between the funders, the landlords and the tenants.
How does the Bee Eco solar funding process work?
The agreement involves the funders requesting to lease the airspace above the roof of the property. Bee Eco design the system in line with your requirements. The funders purchase the equipment required and Bee Eco performs the installation in 6 – 12 weeks.
The funder then sells the electricity that you use back to you at a much cheaper rate. Once the lease is complete, the solar system belongs to the owners of the property.
As energy prices increase, this is a seamless approach for a business to reduce their bills at no cost to them.
How much could you save on electricity?
If your current provider chargers £0.60 per watt, the funders only charge between £0.30-£0.25 for the use of energy generated by the solar system (subject to consumption). Saving businesses like yours approximately 50% on bills.
Secure your future with Solar
Bee Eco collaborates with blue-chip companies, local authorities, and SMEs and small businesses spanning diverse industry sectors, specializing in commercial solar panels. We offer UK businesses comprehensive services, including design, installation, and maintenance for solar PV systems.
The remarkable returns that solar panels yield make this technology one of the most sought-after sustainable solutions today. Numerous UK businesses have embraced solar power to fuel their operations.
With 25 years of experience, we are seasoned solar PV experts who have witnessed the industry’s evolution. Our consultative approach ensures industry-leading advice, top-notch installations, and an award-winning service for our clients.
The Financial Benefits of Solar for Businesses
Businesses that invest in and install commercial solar panels stand to gain significant financial and environmental advantages.
Just a few years ago, solar panels were considered niche and experimental technology. Fast forward a decade, and solar has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing energy source. The convergence of technology and finance has propelled solar into the mainstream, transforming it into a mass-produced product available at a cost-competitive price. In fact, the estimated cost of energy generated by solar panels is less than one-third of electricity purchased from the grid.
A typical commercial solar panel system not only provides free electricity for over 25 years but also yields financial returns of up to 20% per annum, with installation costs typically recouped within approximately 5 years.
There's more! The Environmental Benefits
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), NASA, and leading scientists worldwide have issued warnings about the imminent threat of a man-made global disaster if we persist in burning fossil fuels like gas, coal, and oil. To avert irreversible damage to our planet, there is an urgent need to intensify and expedite the adoption of solar panels and renewable energy sources for the generation, storage, and distribution of energy.
Solar panels provide a viable means to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of organizations. For instance, a typical 250kWp solar PV system has the potential to offset approximately 64 tonnes of CO2, equivalent to driving 155,000 miles in a petrol car.
There are also knock-on effects to your staff motivation, marketing potential and pricing power once your solar savings are realised.
Roof Mounted Solar Panels for Commercial Buildings
With a substantial surge in wholesale energy prices, there is currently unprecedented interest in commercial solar panels. Businesses can assert control over their electricity supply and secure reliable, cost-effective on-site electricity by embracing solar panel installations.
The most prevalent method of harnessing clean energy for business operations is by mounting solar panels on the premises’ roof. Solar panels are adaptable to nearly any roof type, including flat roofs.
Our portfolio includes successful installations for various brands spanning diverse industry sectors. Recent clients encompass Brabantia, Renishaw, the Duchy of Cornwall, Glastonbury Festival, Lush Cosmetics, the NHS, the RSPB, Tesco, and the University of Nottingham, among others.
Have more space? Ground Mounted Solar Panels
While on-roof solar PV systems are common for businesses, a ground array may suit your premises or serve as an alternative when roof installation isn’t feasible or if you require some extra power. Ground-mounted arrays prove effective for increasing on-site energy generation, especially on roofs already equipped with solar panels.
Solar panels are adaptable to various roof types, including those with asbestos. However, if your roof is unsuitable due to shape, orientation, or features like skylights and vents, a ground-mounted array is an ideal solution.
Explore our diverse mounting systems and discuss specific requirements during the initial desktop survey.
The Future is Batteries
Combining a commercial solar panel system with a battery storage solution offers an excellent opportunity to maximize the energy savings generated by your solar panels and unlock additional advantages for your business.
Utilizing all the free electricity produced by your solar panels through on-site storage, rather than exporting it back to the grid, enhances your business’s overall savings. On-site energy storage reduces reliance on the National Grid, safeguarding your business against potential brownouts and energy rationing. This resilience enables your business to stay operational even when competitors may face disruptions.
Finance Options For Commercial Solar
Although self-financing stands out as the favoured method for acquiring commercial solar panels, providing optimal returns throughout the system’s lifespan, numerous companies may face budget constraints or prioritize allocating their capital elsewhere.
Bee Eco has forged partnerships with some of the UK’s prominent financial institutions. Whether it’s asset finance, hire purchase, or a power purchase agreement (solar panel PPA), we are committed to offering expert advice and tailoring a bespoke finance package that aligns with your unique business needs. For further details, including the latest solar panel grants for businesses, contact us for more information.
Supervision, Management, and Maintenance of Commercial Solar Panels
Our commitment to you extends beyond the installation phase. We provide an extensive service for monitoring, operating, and maintaining your solar panels to ensure their optimal performance throughout their lifespan.
Our array of operation and maintenance (O&M) services can be customized to meet your specific requirements. Whether it’s a basic panel cleaning or proactive meter-based monitoring, we aim to assist you in safeguarding your equipment, mitigating potential faults, and ultimately securing your investment. Contact us to find out more about how we help you maintain your solar PV system.
How are savings calculated for business solar systems?
We employ cutting-edge software to precisely forecast the solar energy generation and utilization potential at your specific location. Our detailed economic efficiency calculations ensure that you have a clear understanding of when to anticipate breaking even, the repayment structure, and the long-term profitability for your business.
We create an initial no-obligation proposal
We are proud to offer a suite of flexible installation and payment options to solar can work for anyone.
Commercial Solar Panel Benefits At A Glance
Reduce your overheads
Produce and store cost-free, eco-friendly energy on-site, enhancing your financial performance with potential savings of up to 100% on your electricity expenses.
Stabilise your energy bills
Secure electricity at a predetermined unit rate prior to usage, anticipate your future energy expenses, and shield your business from potential hikes in utility prices.
Do your bit for the planet
Harness sustainable, clean energy to counterbalance your corporate carbon footprint, diminish reliance on fossil fuels for energy needs, and minimize pollution.
Protect from Power shortages
Produce and store your energy, decrease dependence on the National Grid, and safeguard your business against potential energy rationing and brownouts.
Invest intelligently
An average commercial solar panel system is capable of supplying free electricity for over 25 years, yielding returns exceeding 12% annually, and recovering installation costs within 6-8 years.
Create a competitive advantage
Prominently showcase your eco-friendly initiatives, enhance corporate standing, and foster stronger connections with supply chains and customers.
Our FAQ's from the initial phone call
Solar – It’s a big commitment, make an informed decision.
Is it possible for my business to remain operational throughout the installation of solar panels?
Certainly, in the majority of instances, the installation of solar panels should not disrupt your business’s normal operations. However, as a precautionary measure, we recommend that schools, academies, and other educational institutions schedule the installation of their solar PV system outside of term times, if feasible.
Are there any grants available?
Funding opportunities are frequently accessible for the installation of renewable technologies. For details on available options, please get in touch with us to learn more about solar panel grant options.
What is the lifespan of solar panels, and does their efficiency decline over time?
Top-notch solar panels are expected to endure for around 40 years, with a degradation rate of approximately 0.5% per annum. While the standard warranty for solar panels typically ranges from 10-12 years, there’s often an option to extend this period upon purchase. SunPower currently provides the lengthiest standard warranty of up to 25 years. Your solar expert will detail the advantages and potential drawbacks of each panel during the product specification process.