Solar for businesses

Commercial solar panels for Northern Ireland businesses

We design and install commercial solar panels for offices, factories, warehouses, shops, hotels and farms across Northern Ireland. Most businesses use the bulk of their electricity in daylight hours, exactly when solar generates.

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Why solar for business

Why businesses install commercial solar panels

  • Lower electricity bills, scaled to your daytime use
  • Less exposure to price rises on the power you generate
  • Panels with 25 to 30-year performance warranties
  • Little maintenance once installed
  • A visible commitment to sustainability for customers and staff

We fit German SOLARWATT panels, our partner brand since 2010, alongside European inverters and batteries. We fit systems on pitched, flat and industrial roofs.

Commercial solar panels on the roof of the Shelbourne Motors dealership, installed by Solar Power NI
Grants, VAT and export

Funding and costs for business solar in Northern Ireland

The rules for businesses differ from homes. Here's what applies in Northern Ireland as of October 2026.

Up to 20% NISEP grant

The Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) includes a Commercial Energy Saving Scheme, managed by Power NI, that covers solar PV. Power NI states the grant is up to 20% of the total cost, including installation.

Important: you must have a grant offer letter before placing an order. The grant isn't available for new builds and is subject to de minimis aid rules. Funding is limited each year, so ask us about current availability.

VAT on commercial solar

The 0% VAT rate on solar applies to homes and certain charitable buildings, not business premises (HMRC VAT Notice 708/6). Commercial installations are charged at the standard rate. VAT-registered businesses can normally reclaim it; check with your accountant, who can also advise on capital allowances.

Selling spare electricity

Power NI offers an annual fixed export price for generators up to 50 kW, approved by the Utility Regulator. Larger systems need a different export arrangement, which we'll explain at survey.

Payback, worked out for your premises

Payback depends on your daytime electricity use, your tariff, system size, roof orientation and any grant. Rather than quote a generic figure, we calculate it for your premises and include it in your report.

Grant, VAT and export information checked October 2026. Schemes change, so we confirm current terms with every quote.

How it works

How a commercial solar installation works

  1. We're in touch within 48 hours of your enquiry
  2. We visit to assess your roofs, orientation and energy use
  3. We design a system around your site
  4. You get a full report: system size, generation, cost and payback
  5. Our own team schedules and completes the install
Recent commercial installs

Businesses already generating their own power

See every project, with savings, on our real installs page.

Aerial view of commercial solar panels on the factory roof at Lamont Stone, Coleraine
Lamont Stone, Coleraine Large-scale commercial solar panels across an industrial roof.
Common questions

Commercial solar FAQs

How long do commercial solar panels last?

The SOLARWATT panels we install carry performance warranties of 25 years (Classic) or 30 years (Vision), and panels keep generating beyond the warranty period. Compare them on our solar panel products page.

Is there a grant for commercial solar panels in Northern Ireland?

Yes, for eligible businesses. Power NI's NISEP Commercial Energy Saving Scheme offers up to 20% of the total cost of solar PV. You need a grant offer letter before ordering, and funding is limited each year.

Do businesses pay VAT on solar panels?

Yes. The 0% rate applies to homes and certain charitable buildings, so business installations are charged at the standard rate. VAT-registered businesses can normally reclaim it.

Can you install on a flat roof?

Yes. Flat roofs can use angled frames held in place by ballast weights. Your site survey confirms the right method for your roof.

Will installation disrupt my business?

We plan installs around your working hours to keep disruption low. Once installed, the system needs very little maintenance.

Why Solar Power NI

Local, certified, and on your roof

We've installed commercial solar panels for Northern Ireland businesses, farms and homes since 2010, with every system designed after a survey of your site.

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100+5-star reviews
16 yrsExperience
MCSCertified installer
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