Empower Your Business: Our Step by Step Solar Installation Guide
So Why Invest in Solar for Your Business?
Solar PV is the leading renewable energy choice for businesses worldwide, with adoption surging as companies prioritize sustainability, carbon reduction, and cost savings.
Are you looking to revolutionise how your business consumes and produces energy? Then it might make sense to invest in a solar panel installation with SM Electrical Supplies.
Despite the very real and tangible benefits of your business having its very own Solar energy system – buying and installing can often be a bit convoluted... at SM Electrical Supplies we have made a concerted effort to streamline this process for our customers.
Our family run enterprise can offer the latest industry hardware options, from panels, inverters, and battery storage systems – all whilst providing free professional guidance throughout your installation journey.
Sit back and let us do work, as we produce a bespoke design plan to meet the individual needs of your business. From the inception of a plan, to providing the hardware, and assisting in the installation process – we can do it all.
Quick Intro to Solar
A solar system includes PV panels to capture sunlight, an inverter to convert DC to AC power for business use, mounting equipment to secure panels optimally, and batteries to store excess energy for use during low-sunlight periods.
Your quintessential solar system will look something like the below;
What Can it Do For Your Business?
A commercial solar installation can significantly reduce energy costs with a fast return on investment. Solar also enhances energy independence, especially with battery storage, and strengthens brand appeal by reducing carbon footprints—a move that resonates with eco-conscious customers. It’s a cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable choice for any business.
At SM we installed an 11kW solar system at our Kirkcaldy branch (pictured). Since then, we have made significant savings in cut energy costs every month.
At SM we installed an 11kW solar system at our Kirkcaldy branch (pictured). Since then, we have made significant savings in cut energy costs every month.
Let's Talk Hardware
What exactly are you gonna need for your solar installation? Well, there are some essentials – as aforementioned, photovoltaic panelling (solar panels) is your bread and butter. Solar panels generally fall into two categories based on their silicon cell technology;
Solar Inverters
The second essential for a solar system is the inverter, which converts DC power from the panels into AC power for business use. There are three main types:
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String Inverters are the most common and economical, connecting all panels to a single unit. However, if one panel underperforms due to shade, the entire system's output may be reduced. Best for unshaded setups.
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Microinverters attach to each panel, allowing individual operation. This setup maximizes output, especially useful if panels face different directions or experience shading.
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Power Optimizers combine features of both, attaching to each panel for independent performance but still connecting to a central inverter. They’re a cost-effective choice with good efficiency, ideal for mildly shaded installations.
Battery Storage
While not essential, batteries enhance a solar setup by storing excess energy for night use, peak times, or outages—reducing grid reliance and costs. Modern battery systems, often integrated with hybrid inverters, make energy management seamless, allowing businesses to store energy during the day for use when rates are high.
This setup boosts energy independence, cuts costs, and ensures a reliable power supply, making batteries a valuable addition to any commercial solar system.
This setup boosts energy independence, cuts costs, and ensures a reliable power supply, making batteries a valuable addition to any commercial solar system.
Roof Mounts
Solar panels aren’t directly attached to the roof; they’re mounted on racking systems to optimize sunlight angles and prevent roof damage, typically angled south at 30-50 degrees. In some cases, a roofer may be needed to install the racking, especially if the roof requires reinforcement.
Ground Mounted
For ground-mounted systems or carports, supports are installed in the ground, either fixed or tracking the sun’s movement. Once racking is set up, panels are attached, connected to the inverter, and linked to the building’s electrical system to generate power.
Accredited Installers
We can further ease the process by recommending an MCS-accredited electrician. MCS accreditation is a quality assurance that ensures an installer meets industry standards for complex installations.
We know several trusted MCS-accredited professionals and are happy to provide recommendations. However, you’re under no obligation to choose our suggestions—you have complete freedom to select your installer, giving you confidence and control in every step of the process.
Planning Permission
Most commercial solar installations typically don’t need planning permission, as they generally fall within permitted development parameters, allowing businesses to proceed without extensive approval. However, there are exceptions for listed and historic buildings, where installations must minimize visual impact on the building and surrounding area. Additionally, roof-mounted systems with extra equipment (beyond panels and brackets) may require local planning authority approval.
For leaseholders, permissions are usually needed from the landlord or freeholder before installation. Also, solar systems over 3.68kW, common in commercial setups, require a G99 application to ensure safe grid connection in Scotland. SM Electrical Supplies can guide you through these steps, including the planning process and completing the G99 application.
Overview
Installing a commercial solar system is a smart move that can significantly reduce energy costs, enhance energy independence, and support a greener business image. The setup includes essential components like PV panels, inverters, mounting equipment, and optional battery storage, each carefully chosen based on your business’s unique needs. Roof-mounted systems typically don’t require planning permission, though listed buildings or special equipment may necessitate approvals. Ground-mounted systems and carports offer alternatives when roof space is limited.
When it comes to installation, you’ll need reliable support from MCS-accredited electricians, ensuring your system meets quality standards and industry regulations. For larger installations over 3.68kW, a G99 application is required to safely connect to the grid. Our team at SM Electrical Supplies can guide you through every step, from selecting the right equipment to navigating planning permissions and G99 applications, empowering your business to harness the full potential of solar energy with confidence and ease.
For Your Free Inquiry Contact SM Electrical Supplies
At SM Electrical Supplies, we're with you every step of the way on your solar journey. All inquiries with us are free, and we provide clear, straightforward guidance tailored to your business’s needs. For a comprehensive overview of our offerings, download our Solar PDF guide and discover how we can support your business in achieving reliable, sustainable energy solutions.
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