How much can a business save with solar panels?
UK businesses save £180–£240 per installed kWp per year with commercial solar in 2026, based on 70% self-consumption at 24–28p/kWh and 30% export at 5–8p/kWh. A 100 kWp system saves £18,000–£24,000 per year; a 500 kWp system saves £90,000–£120,000; and a 1 MWp system saves £180,000–£240,000.
Last updated 26 July 2026.
Key facts at a glance
| Saving per kWp installed | £180–£240/year |
|---|---|
| 50 kWp system | £9,000–£12,000/year |
| 100 kWp system | £18,000–£24,000/year |
| 250 kWp system | £45,000–£60,000/year |
| 500 kWp system | £90,000–£120,000/year |
| 1 MWp system | £180,000–£240,000/year |
| 25-year savings on 250 kWp | £1.4m–£1.8m lifetime |
How the saving is calculated
The saving is the sum of two flows: (1) grid units you no longer buy (self-consumption × grid tariff, typically 24–28p/kWh) and (2) exported units sold under a Smart Export Guarantee tariff (typically 5–8p/kWh, some tariffs above 15p). Self-consumption is the dominant driver.
How to push savings higher
Increase daytime consumption (EV charging, MHE charging, process shifting), add battery storage to time-shift generation into evening peak, or enter a flexibility market (DFS) for stress-event revenue. Each lever adds 10–25% to lifetime savings.
Related reading
FAQ
How much can a shop save with solar?
A typical high-street retailer or convenience store fits a 15–30 kWp system saving £2,700–£7,200 per year at 2026 grid prices.
Do savings continue for 25 years?
Panels are warranted at 84–87% of their day-one output at year 25. Savings decline gently (~0.5%/year) but continue for the full asset life — plus into a 30-year second life in many cases.
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