Model commercial solar PV CapEx, payback, and ROI with our free business calculator. Get an instant business case based on your monthly electricity spend, usable roof space, and industry sector with UK pricing data for 2026.
No contact information required. Choose your business type, refine a few premises details, and enter your postcode for an indicative estimate. Contact details are only needed if you want quotes from MCS commercial installers.
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Commercial Solar Averages
| System Size | Typical Premise | Est. CapEx Cost | Roof Space Req. | Annual CO₂ Offset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 kWp | Small Factory / Farm | £45,000 – £55,000 | ~250 m² | ~10 Tonnes |
| 100 kWp | Mid-size Warehouse | £80,000 – £100,000 | ~500 m² | ~20 Tonnes |
| 250 kWp | Large Logistics Hub | £180,000 – £220,000 | ~1,250 m² | ~50 Tonnes |
Semantic Q&A
How does the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) apply to commercial solar investments?
The Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) permits limited companies to deduct 100% of qualifying capital expenditure on plant and machinery—including commercial solar PV arrays—from taxable profits up to a £1 million annual limit, directly cutting corporation tax liabilities. Separate battery storage systems may qualify under different rules; our commercial calculator models rooftop PV only.
What are the engineering rules for a G99 grid connection application?
Commercial solar generation systems with a capacity exceeding 16A per phase (3.68kW single-phase or 11.04kW three-phase) must submit a formal G99 application to the regional Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to secure grid parallel operation and export approval.
Can businesses claim tax relief if capital expenditure exceeds the AIA threshold?
Yes. Expenditure exceeding the £1 million AIA ceiling qualifies for capital allowances. Solar panels typically qualify for first-year allowances or special rate pool writing down allowances, reducing taxable corporate profits over time.
What is the function of a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for commercial properties?
A commercial Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) allows a third-party developer to finance, install, and maintain the solar photovoltaic system on-site with zero upfront CapEx, while the business purchases the generated electricity at a fixed, discounted per-kWh rate.