How Solar PV Can Lower Energy Bills for Somerset Businesses
Energy bills remain one of the biggest challenges for businesses across the UK, and nowhere is this felt more strongly than in Somerset. From independent shops in Taunton to large warehouses in Yeovil and farms in Bridgwater, rising electricity costs can quickly eat into profit margins. Many business owners are now turning to renewable energy as a long-term solution. Among the most reliable options is solar PV (photovoltaic) technology — a system that converts sunlight into usable electricity and reduces reliance on the grid.
But how exactly does solar PV help businesses save money, and what makes it a smart investment in Somerset today? Let’s explore how local companies can benefit from installing solar panels and why Somerset Electrical Company is the trusted choice for commercial solar solutions.
Why Somerset Businesses Are Turning to Solar PV
Businesses across Somerset are increasingly under pressure to manage operational costs while also meeting sustainability goals. Energy represents one of the most unpredictable expenses, with electricity prices fluctuating dramatically over the last few years.
Solar PV offers two key advantages:
- Cost savings — By generating your own electricity, you reduce the amount of power purchased from the grid.
• Energy security — Solar power shields you from future price hikes, offering predictability in financial planning.
Local businesses in towns such as Taunton, Weston-super-Mare, and Bridgwater are already exploring solar not only as a cost-saving measure but also as a way to demonstrate environmental responsibility. With more consumers and clients favouring sustainable companies, the shift also enhances reputation.
For a deeper explanation of the technology, see our guide on what solar PV is.
How Solar PV Systems Work for Commercial Use
Solar PV panels are made from photovoltaic cells that capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. This is then converted into alternating current (AC) via an inverter, making it usable for business operations such as lighting, machinery, refrigeration, and office equipment.
Any electricity generated that isn’t immediately used can either:
- Be stored in on-site batteries for later use
• Be exported back to the grid under certain tariffs, providing additional financial benefit
For commercial settings, solar arrays are often installed on rooftops of warehouses, offices, or agricultural barns. This makes use of unused roof space and provides large-scale power generation. To understand installation specifics, explore how solar panels are mounted on roofs.
Cutting Energy Bills with On-Site Solar Power
The most immediate benefit of solar PV is a reduction in energy bills. Businesses with high daytime electricity usage — such as manufacturing facilities, farms running cold storage, or retail outlets with lighting and refrigeration — see the biggest savings because solar panels generate power during daylight hours when demand is highest.
Typical savings can be substantial. For example:
• A medium-sized retail store in Taunton could cut electricity costs by 30–40% after installing a solar PV system.
• Farms in Bridgwater operating refrigeration and irrigation systems can offset thousands of pounds annually.
• Large warehouses in Yeovil may achieve even greater returns due to expansive roof space suitable for larger arrays.
To estimate how much energy solar panels could generate for your business, visit our guide on daily electricity output from solar panels in the UK.
Government Incentives and Tax Benefits for Businesses
While upfront installation costs can seem daunting, government incentives and tax benefits significantly improve the return on investment for solar PV.
Key opportunities include:
- Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) — Businesses can claim tax relief on the full cost of solar PV installation.
• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) — Any excess electricity exported back to the grid earns payments, creating a revenue stream.
• Business rates relief — Some renewable energy investments qualify for reduced business rates, depending on location and usage.
These benefits, combined with falling installation costs, make solar PV one of the most financially accessible renewable energy solutions for Somerset businesses today. For comparisons with other technologies, see our breakdown of solar PV vs solar thermal.
Long-Term ROI: When Solar PV Pays for Itself
Solar panels typically pay for themselves within 5 to 7 years, depending on system size, energy usage, and electricity prices. After this payback period, businesses enjoy free electricity for the remaining lifespan of the panels, which can exceed 25 years.
This makes solar a long-term hedge against energy price volatility. With electricity prices in the UK continuing to rise, investing in solar today can protect Somerset businesses for decades.
For businesses with large energy demands, such as dairy farms or industrial units, the ROI period can be even shorter. Choosing the right system size is crucial — see our guide on solar PV panel sizes to understand the best fit for your site.
Sustainability and Net-Zero Goals
Beyond financial savings, many Somerset businesses are motivated by sustainability targets. Net-zero commitments are becoming standard across industries, and solar PV helps companies reduce their carbon footprint.
By generating renewable electricity on-site, businesses:
• Cut greenhouse gas emissions
• Demonstrate corporate responsibility
• Attract eco-conscious clients and partners
This is particularly valuable for customer-facing businesses such as retail shops in Taunton or hospitality venues in Glastonbury, where consumers are increasingly attentive to environmental practices.
To find the most effective products for your sustainability goals, view our guide on the best solar PV panels.
Why Choose Somerset Electrical Company for Your Solar Installation
While national providers may offer solar PV solutions, working with a trusted local installer ensures personal service and regional expertise. Somerset Electrical Company specialises in commercial installations tailored to the specific needs of businesses in the county.
We provide:
• Expert assessments of your energy usage and roof suitability
• Guidance on the best panel types, from where to buy solar PV panels to installation methods
• Full compliance with UK regulations and safety standards
• Ongoing support and maintenance to ensure long-term performance
By working locally, we also understand the unique challenges of Somerset businesses, from agricultural requirements in Bridgwater to the energy demands of industrial sites in Yeovil.
Powering the Future of Somerset Businesses
Solar PV is more than a cost-cutting measure. It’s a future-proof investment that delivers financial savings, sustainability benefits, and energy independence. For Somerset businesses, it provides a way to take control of rising electricity costs while supporting the county’s transition to greener energy.
Whether you run a farm, a warehouse, or a high-street shop, solar PV can lower your bills, strengthen your business resilience, and contribute to a cleaner future.
