When businesses consider converting to solar power, one of the first questions is always: how quickly will my system pay for itself?

The good news is that for many companies, Business Solar can deliver a return on investment (ROI) well under 10 years. Our use of PV Sol modelling software helps to show that the average payback period for our commercial customers is just 5.35 years – in some cases, such as  For Tehidy Golf Club it’s under 3 years.

 

What Affects Busienss Solar ROI?

Every site is different, the main factors influencing payback are:

• Energy usage patterns: businesses that use a lot of power during daylight hours see faster returns.
• System size: larger systems absorb fixed costs like the electrical installation more, and generate more free electricity delivering a quicker financial return over a number of years.
• Tariffs and grid export payments: surplus power exported to the grid creates additional income.  Naked Solar can provide accurate forecasts that help you choose the right system for you.
• Battery storage: adding solar storage means you can use even more of your own clean energy and rely less on the grid’s fluctuating prices.
• Rising energy prices: solar shields your business from volatile market costs, increasing savings year after year.
• Quality of products: Many long established businesses choose higher quality panels, inverters and mounting systems giving a higher investment upfront which may lead to a longer payback, however over longer periods the return is higher thanks to lower degradation rates and better reliability.  

 

RSPCA Devon reduce their reliance on the grid with 3 Tesla Powerwall 3 Solar Batteries 

 

 

Business Solar ROI Case Study: Tehidy Park Golf Club

Our installation at Tehidy Park Golf Club in Cornwall shows just how fast ROI can be:

• System size: 61.4 kWp (138 JA Solar 445Wp panels & Solis 60kW Three Phase Inverter)
  
• Payback period: 2.8 years
  
• First year benefit: £17,108.63  can we add a line with the investment figure to give the payback figures more meaning?
  
• 25-year profit: £736,556
  
• Annual CO2 savings: 15,237 kg

General Manager James Levick explains:

“The process, from consultation through to installation with Naked Solar was exceptional. We’re thrilled with the performance and we’re on track to pay off our system in under 3 years. The energy cost saved by solar has been vital in contributing to the growth of the club.”

This is a prime example of how a well-designed business solar system can transform running costs into long-term profitability. Take a look at some of our other projects to see how you could profit from business solar.

 

 

Typical Solar Payback Periods for Businesses 

• Small commercial systems (up to 30 kWp): 4-6 years
• Medium systems (30–100 kWp): 3.5-6 years
• Large systems (100 kWp+): as little as 3–5 years – and in cases like Tehidy, under 3 years

With warranties often covering 20–25 years, that means decades of low-cost, predictable energy after your system has paid for itself.

Discover more about business solar solutions and how it can transform your business. 

 

How Naked Solar can Help to Maximise ROI

ROI isn’t just about the panels you buy, it’s about how well the system is designed for your business. Our award-winning team use PV Sol software + years of Solar design experience to provide:

• Accurate 3D models of your roof or land.
  
• Simulations that utilise your of your business’s real consumption patterns.
  
• Transparent forecasts of generation, savings, and payback. 

This approach means you can try before you buy, with data that shows exactly how your investment will perform.

 

Beyond Payback: Added Benefits of Business Solar

While financial ROI is a major driver, business solar brings extra value too:

• Energy independence: less exposure to unpredictable market prices
• Sustainability: boosts green credentials and supports ESG reporting
  
• Future scalability: add more panels or storage as your business grows

 

FAQs About Business Solar

What’s the average payback period for Naked Solar business customers?
Our PV Sol modelling shows an average of 5.35 years for commercial installations.

Can batteries improve ROI?
Yes! Solar battery storage can helps you consume more of your own energy, reducing grid reliance and accelerating payback.

What if my business energy use changes?
Solar systems are modular and scalable – extra panels or storage can be added later.

Do all businesses get the same ROI?
No: it depends on energy demand, system design, and tariffs. That’s why our team places such emphasis on bespoke approaches to each business, providing impartial advice for your long-term benefit.

 

Chat To Naked Solar Today

So, how long does it take to see a return on investment with business solar? On average, Naked Solar customers see ROI in just over 5 years, with projects like Tehidy Park Golf Club achieving payback in under 3 years.

Naked Solar’s bespoke design, impartial advice, and award-winning installation, ensures your system delivers energy savings and long-term profitability.

Explore our business solar solutions and find out how quickly your company could see a return.

 

 

Our award-winning team have helped thousands of homeowners in Cornwall, Devon, Exeter, Bristol and throughout the South West. We’d be delighed to help you, too.

 

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