Commercial Solar Panel Services
Expert renewable solutions for businesses
Trusted Commercial Building Solar Company
South Devon businesses are in one of the best positions in the country to benefit from commercial solar. Torbay is among the highest-irradiance locations in England, the South Devon coast receives around 1,600 sunshine hours per year, and the area’s commercial base, spanning tourism and hospitality, light industrial, agricultural, retail, and professional services, includes the kind of daytime electricity consumption profiles that suit solar well.
M&E Contrax Renewables designs and installs commercial solar PV systems for businesses across South Devon. We are based in Newton Abbot, we hold MCS accreditation for commercial solar installations, and all electrical work is carried out by our own NICEIC-approved in-house engineers. We do not subcontract the electrical installation. That matters for commercial projects, where the quality and certification of the electrical work is as important as the solar equipment itself. As MCS Accredited installers we have met defined standards for competency, processes, insurance, and quality of work, and that these are audited regularly.
Whether you are looking to power your warehouse, office, school or industrial operations, our commercial solar panel services are the perfect solution.
Commercial Building Solar Power Benefits
Commercial electricity prices remain significantly higher than their pre-2021 levels and are not expected to return to historical lows. A commercial solar system offsets grid consumption at a time when that consumption is most expensive, and does so for the life of the system, typically 25 years or more. The financial case is straightforward: the electricity your panels generate costs a fraction of what you would pay the grid for the same units.
Commercial installations also benefit from favourable tax treatment. The full capital cost of a solar installation qualifies for the Annual Investment Allowance, meaning the cost can be deducted from taxable profits in the year of purchase. For a profitable business paying corporation tax, this effectively reduces the net cost of the installation by the tax rate applied. Separate from the AIA, commercial solar systems used for business purposes are also exempt from business rates on the installation itself.
The Smart Export Guarantee pays for surplus electricity exported to the grid. For commercial premises with high daytime consumption, export rates are less central to the financial case than self-consumption, but the SEG provides an additional income stream for any generation above on-site demand.
Hospitality and Tourism
Hotels, holiday parks, and visitor attractions across Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, and the South Hams typically have large roof areas and consistent electricity consumption from kitchens, hot water, laundry, lighting, and guest facilities. Daytime solar generation aligns well with peak operational demand. We have delivered commercial solar installations for leisure venues in the Torbay area including Torquay Golf Club.
Light Industrial and Commercial Estates
Newton Abbot’s Brunel Road and surrounding trading estate, together with industrial premises across Torbay and the South Hams, have the flat or low-pitch roof areas and consistent electrical loads that commercial solar suits well. A well-sized rooftop system on a light industrial unit can offset a significant proportion of the site’s electricity consumption.
Agricultural and Rural Businesses
The South Hams has a significant agricultural sector. Farm buildings with large south-facing roof areas, livestock operations, cold stores, grain dryers, and rural enterprises with high electricity consumption are strong candidates for commercial solar. Metal roofed agricultural buildings, in particular, allow clamp-mounted solar systems with no roof penetrations at all. Our guide to solar panels for Devon farms covers this in more detail.
Retail and Professional Services
Businesses with premises in Newton Abbot, Torquay, and Totnes town centres, and those in out-of-town retail parks, can benefit from solar where the roof and building fabric are suitable. We assess feasibility at survey stage and will tell you honestly if the numbers do not stack up for your specific property.
The Cost of Solar Power
Each commercial solar panels project is unique, resulting in varying installation costs. There are several factors to consider, such as the system’s size, the specific location for panel placement, and the necessary installation requirements like scaffolding, access, and electrical equipment. Additionally, the quality of the products, including warranty length, and the labour involved play significant roles.
When you initially make contact with M&E Contrax regarding your commercial solar panels project, we will engage in a comprehensive discussion about these variables and offer an approximate estimate for your consideration. If you find the estimate satisfactory, we will proceed with a thorough site survey, following which we will present you with a formal proposal.
The Commercial Building Solar Process
We prioritise a streamlined and efficient process for the installation of commercial solar panels. Our six-step approach ensures a smooth transition to sustainable energy solutions for businesses.
Firstly, clients initiate the process by making contact with our dedicated team, where we promptly assess their requirements and offer tailored solutions. Following this initial engagement, we conduct thorough consultations to understand specific energy needs and assess site feasibility. Subsequently, our experienced design team meticulously crafts solar panel configurations optimised for maximum efficiency and output. Upon finalising the design, we handle all necessary paperwork and liaise with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) to obtain requisite approvals, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Once approvals are secured, our engineers proceed with the installation phase, employing industry-leading practices and equipment to guarantee precision and reliability.
Established Commercial Solar Power Systems
Investing in commercial building solar systems not only enhances your business’s operational efficiency but also strengthens your corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile. By reducing your carbon footprint and promoting the use of clean energy, you position your business as a forward-thinking leader in sustainability. This not only resonates with environmentally conscious customers and stakeholders but also helps meet regulatory and industry standards for energy consumption and sustainability practices.
In addition, our solar power systems offer long-term reliability and performance, with minimal maintenance requirements, ensuring that you enjoy consistent, renewable energy for decades to come. From initial enquiry to ongoing support, our Devon solar panel installers provide end-to-end service to ensure a seamless transition to renewable energy that is both cost-effective and impactful for your business.
Commercial Building Solar Batteries & Storage
From initial solar installation to ongoing maintenance and everything in between, M&E Contrax offers a full suite of commercial solar services to ensure a seamless transition to renewable energy. Our comprehensive approach covers every stage of the solar power journey, from the detailed planning and design of your system to expert installation and long-term support. We prioritiae efficiency and minimal disruption to your business operations, allowing you to quickly start benefiting from clean, cost-effective energy.
In addition to installation, we provide solar battery and storage solutions that maximise your investment by storing excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours. This stored energy can be used during times of high demand or when sunlight is limited, ensuring your business has a steady, uninterrupted power supply. With our storage systems, you gain increased energy independence and reduce reliance on the grid, making your solar power system even more resilient and reliable. Whether you need tailored maintenance, system monitoring, or storage solutions, M&E Contrax ensures that your solar investment is optimised for long-term performance and savings, giving you peace of mind when you need it most.
Commercial Building Solar Panel Servicing
Regular solar panel servicing is essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your solar power system. Proper maintenance not only protects your investment but also guarantees that your system continues to perform at its peak capacity, helping you maximise energy production and savings. This is especially critical for large-scale installations, such as solar farms, which often involve hundreds or even thousands of interconnected solar panels and components. With such vast and complex systems, ongoing servicing helps prevent costly downtime, identify potential issues early, and ensure that all equipment is operating smoothly. Our commercial solar panel servicing covers everything from routine inspections and cleaning to more advanced diagnostics and repairs, tailored to meet the unique needs of your installation.
By maintaining your solar system, you can extend its operational lifespan and avoid unexpected performance drops that could impact your energy output. To learn more about the lifespan and upkeep of commercial solar panel maintenance, check out our in-depth blog post, “How Long Do Commercial Solar Panels Last?” It offers valuable insights on how proactive maintenance can keep your solar panels functioning efficiently for decades.
Economical Savings
Secure and manitain sustainable energy on-site, promoting an environmentally concious strategy that also boosts finalcial outcomes. Significantly reduce operational costs with the possibility of saving up to 100% on electricity expenses.
Selling Solar Power
In an ideal scenario, the solar power generated would primarily be utilised onsite, maximising its efficiency. Nonetheless, any excess energy can be conveniently sold back to the grid, opening up an opportunity to generate supplementary income.
Financial Forecasting
As energy costs are expected to rise considerably in the coming years, incorporating commercial solar panels presents businesses with a valuable chance to secure electricity at a consistent rate in advance. This approach of “forward-buying” power not only aids in streamlining financial projections but also brings a practical aspect to the table.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Investing in commercial solar panels will demonstrate your business’ commitment to a greener future, while drastically reducing its carbon footprint. The decision not only goes above and beyond environmental responsibility – it also offers numerous economic benefits long-term.
Why Choose M&E Contrax for your Commercial Solar Panel Services?
M&E Contrax are dedicated to delivering unparallelled service in the realm of commercial solar panel installations. Operating from our headquaters in Ashburton, Devon; we extend our services to various areas across the UK, including Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, and London. But our offerings don’t end with installations alone – we also provide a professional maintenance package to ensure your peace of mind.
But that’s not all. By choosing to incorperate our sustainable solutions into your business, you can effortlessly fulfil your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental and Governance (ESG) policies, without disrupting your daily operations. Now is the perfect moment to seize this opportunity and acquire your green credentials today.
Excelling in Commercial Solar Panel Services
M&E Contrax is a leader in delivering exceptional results for complex projects involving solar panels in commercial buildings. Our extensive knowledge and meticulous planning guarantee the seeamless achievement of your solar panel undertaking. It is highly advisable to involve us in the initial stages of your peokect, as we fully understand the unique requirements and complexitites associated with such ambitious endeavours.
Moreover, we offer the flexibility to collaborate with architects, lead contractors, and building consultants if necessary. Whether your vision encompasses a large-scale industrial installation or a small-scale project spanning over 300 square metres, or even a comprehensive implementation of smaller systems across multiple locations, we are excited to engage in consultations to facilitate discussions and ignite inspiration for your commercial, agricultural, or office-based solar initiative.
Solar Panel Case Studies
A selection of works we have undertaken for all different sizes of businesses
Renewable Energy Finance with M&E Contrax and Ignition Credit
We have partnered with Ignition Credit who provide specialist financial solutions to the renewable energy sector. Our team of experienced professionals understand the unique requirements of renewable finance, and will work with you to develop the most appropriate way to make your business more energy-efficient.
Book a free commercial solar survey in South Devon
We carry out commercial surveys across Newton Abbot, Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Totnes, Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, and the wider South Devon and South Hams area. The survey is free. The proposal gives you the information needed to make a fully informed decision, including projected generation, financial return, and payback timeline.
MCS Accredited | NICEIC Approved | Newton Abbot, Devon | 24/7 aftercare
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Commercial solar finance options include asset finance, lease arrangements, and the Ignition Credit specialist renewable energy finance facility that M&E Contrax works with. Finance can allow a business to benefit from day-one electricity savings without a large upfront capital commitment. We introduce the finance options available at the proposal stage.
For a standard domestic installation of 10 to 14 panels with a string inverter, typically one full day. An installation with battery storage takes one to two days. Larger commercial systems are programmed over multiple days depending on system size and site access requirements.
System size depends on your roof space, your electricity consumption profile, and your objectives. Most commercial systems we install in South Devon range from 20kWp for smaller business premises to 100kWp and above for larger industrial and agricultural sites. We size systems from your consumption data and design around self-consumption rather than export maximisation. Our 47kW installation at a Newton Abbot commercial property gives a real-world reference point.
Survey to commissioning typically takes 4 to 12 weeks, depending on system size, DNO notification requirements, and installation complexity. Smaller commercial systems on straightforward roof types can be completed more quickly. Larger systems requiring DNO application, structural surveys, or planning consultation take longer. We give a realistic project timeline at the proposal stage.
Most commercial rooftop installations fall under permitted development for non-domestic buildings. Exceptions apply to listed buildings, scheduled monuments, and installations that exceed certain size thresholds in specific locations. Conservation areas in Torquay, Totnes, and Dartmouth may affect certain commercial premises. We check the planning position for every project at the survey stage.
