Frequently Asked Questions
Solar Installations
How effective are solar panels for commercial properties in Scotland’s climate?
Solar PV systems perform well in Scotland’s climate, as they only need daylight rather than direct sunlight to generate power. Even on cloudy days, commercial solar installations remain productive, ensuring consistent energy generation. At Storm Energy, we use advanced technologies to maximise efficiency and optimise energy production year-round, making solar a viable, dependable option for Scottish businesses.
Can a commercial solar installation reduce my business’s energy costs significantly?
Yes, a well-designed solar PV system can significantly lower energy costs for your business. By generating your own electricity, you can reduce reliance on the grid and protect your business against rising energy prices. Depending on the size of the installation and your energy consumption, savings can be substantial, often reducing bills by 50% or more. Storm Energy conducts thorough energy audits to customise the system to maximise cost savings for your specific business operations.
What are the maintenance requirements for a commercial solar PV system?
Commercial solar PV systems are relatively low-maintenance. Regular cleaning, occasional inspections, and performance monitoring ensure optimal efficiency and longevity. With Storm Energy's optional Storm Protection service, we offer ongoing maintenance, annual inspections, performance reporting, and proactive issue resolution to keep your system performing at its best. This service helps your business maximise returns while minimising upkeep concerns.
Are there financing options available for commercial solar installations?
Yes, several financing options are available for commercial solar PV systems. Storm Energy can help facilitate flexible financing solutions, including Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), leasing, or direct financing, to suit your business's needs. We also explore alternative models, such as shared ownership or funding partnerships, to help offset initial costs. Our goal is to make solar installations accessible and financially viable for all types of businesse
What is the typical payback period for a commercial solar PV system?
For commercial installations, the payback period generally ranges from 5-7 years, depending on the system’s scale, initial costs, and energy savings. Larger systems tend to benefit from economies of scale, resulting in shorter payback periods. Storm Energy provides detailed financial projections and cost-benefit analyses to help commercial clients understand the return on investment and long-term savings of their solar systems.
How long does it take to install a commercial solar PV system?
The timeline for a commercial solar PV installation depends on the project scale, roof or ground space, and specific requirements of the site. Typically, installation for a medium-sized commercial system can take 1-2 weeks, while larger or more complex systems may require several weeks to complete. At Storm Energy, we work closely with our commercial clients to plan and schedule installations with minimal operational disruption
Will a solar PV system integrate with my existing energy infrastructure?
Yes, commercial solar PV systems can be integrated with your existing energy infrastructure. Storm Energy carefully designs systems that complement your current setup, allowing your business to switch seamlessly between solar and grid power as needed. We provide custom configurations to ensure compatibility with other on-site technologies, such as battery storage or energy management systems, for greater flexibility and control over your energy use.
How will a solar installation impact my business’s carbon footprint
Installing a solar PV system is a powerful way to reduce your business’s carbon footprint, as it replaces a portion of your energy sourced from fossil fuels with clean, renewable energy. Depending on system size, a commercial installation can offset a substantial amount of CO₂ emissions annually. Storm Energy offers environmental impact assessments to quantify the potential carbon savings, helping your business align with sustainability goals and enhance its eco-friendly reputation.
What is involved in the planning and regulatory approval process for a commercial solar installation?
The planning and approval process can vary depending on the location and scale of the installation. Storm Energy assists with all necessary planning permissions and regulatory compliance, including applications for grid connections, safety standards, and any local authority requirements. We work closely with regulatory bodies to streamline this process, ensuring that your project is fully compliant and proceeds smoothly.