Solar and Energy Storage for Manufacturing & Engineering Facilities
Powering manufacturing and engineering facilities with clean energy, we design, install and maintain award-winning solar and energy storage systems to support your journey to Net Zero.
Switch to solar today and enjoy immediate savings with no upfront costs required.
Recent installations at the Brothers Drinks and Alderman’s manufacturing sites are forecast to deliver lifetime savings of more than £3 million.
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Renewable Energy For Manufacturing Companies
SolarSense supports manufacturing and engineering businesses across the UK to reduce energy costs, strengthen operational resilience and accelerate progress towards Net Zero through commercial solar PV, solar carports and commercial battery storage systems.
Energy-intensive operations face rising electricity prices, grid constraints and increasing pressure to decarbonise. On-site solar energy generation and battery storage enable manufacturers to take control of their energy use, cut reliance on the grid and protect margins.
With over 30 years of experience delivering clean energy systems for industrial sites, SolarSense designs, installs and maintains commercial solar and battery storage systems engineered around real-world production demands. From factories and warehouses to advanced engineering facilities, every renewable energy system is developed to maximise on-site consumption, improve energy security and deliver measurable financial and carbon savings.
Solar and Energy Storage for Manufacturing and Engineering
Every manufacturing and engineering site operates differently. Load profiles, operating hours, equipment intensity and site constraints all influence how much energy can be generated on site, how it is used, and where the strongest commercial returns are achieved.
SolarSense design industrial-scale solar and energy storage systems using detailed analysis of consumption patterns, peak demand periods and physical site constraints. This ensures energy generation and storage capacity are optimised to support live manufacturing operations while maximising cost savings and return on investment.
Speak to an expert energy consultant
Not sure where the biggest opportunities lie? A short discovery call with one of SolarSense’s expert energy consultants can help you understand suitability, potential value and next steps.
Generate Electricity at 1/4 of the Cost of the Grid
Solar panels can produce low-cost renewable energy for as little as 5p per kWh, compared with typical grid prices of around 25p to 30p per kWh.
Reduce Peak Electricity Costs and Demand Charges
On-site generation reduces reliance on high-cost imported electricity during peak periods, helping control demand charges and avoid the most expensive grid tariffs.
Immediate and Long-Term Energy Cost Reduction
Solar and battery storage systems cut grid electricity from the moment they are commissioned, delivering immediate and long-term savings.
Increase Energy Independence and Operational Resilience
Generating electricity on site reduces dependence on the grid, improving resilience against outages, capacity constraints and external supply disruption that can impact production.
Protection Against Energy Price Volatility
Solar PV locks in a low energy costs for more than 25 years. As grid prices rise, the value of solar energy increases, protecting against inflation.
Meet Net Zero Targets and Strengthen Compliance
On-site clean energy delivers immediate CO₂ reductions while providing verifiable performance data to support Net Zero commitments, ESOS compliance and wider ESG reporting.
Brothers Drinks cut their electricity costs by over £83k/yr
Brothers Drinks is harnessing solar energy to power its manufacturing facility, where it produces Babycham, Compton Orchard Cider and Glastonbury Festival-favourite Brothers Cider.
The system comprises 772 solar panels, integrated with SolarEdge optimisers and online monitoring to maximise energy yield, enhance safety and ensure long-term performance.
System Size: 317 kWp
Annual Output: 320,199 kWh
Annual Carbon Savings: 67,856 kg
Payback Period: 3 years
Lifetime Saving: £3.4 million
FACTORY SOLAR & BATTERY STORAGE
Funding Options for Renewable Energy
Whether you want full ownership, zero-capital installation, or a low and predictable monthly payment, SolarSense offers a range of funding options designed to suit your sustainability plans, cashflow, and long-term energy strategy.
CAPEX
Own your clean energy system outright with a one-off investment. CAPEX maximises long-term energy savings and unlocks the highest ROI, giving you full control of your assets.
- Highest long-term savings and ROI
- Typical 3 year payback
- Eligible for Annual Investment tax benefit
- Best for organisations investing for maximum lifetime value
Asset Finance
Install now and spread the cost over an agreed term while reducing energy bills from day one. Once repaid, you own the clean energy system and keep all future savings.
- Low upfront capital required
- Immediate energy bill reduction
- Fixed monthly repayments
- Typical 5 year contract term
- Full ownership at the end of payment term
PPA
Access on-site clean energy at no upfront cost through a PPA, buying electricity at a fixed, lower rate than the grid with ownership and maintenance fully managed for you.
- No upfront capital required
- Lower fixed price than grid electricity
- Typical 15 year contract term
- Long-term price certainty
- Fully funded and maintained by provider
Grants & Support
Government and Local Funding
Eurofoods cut grid energy use by 40% with £0 upfront
A 1.04 MW rooftop solar PV system at Cwmbran is already cutting energy use at Eurofoods by around 40%, with monthly bill savings exceeding the monthly repayments, making the project cash-flow positive from day one.
Eurofoods is now able to replicate this cost-saving success across its six sites while retaining capital and accelerating its journey towards Net Zero.
Solar Operations and Maintenance for Manufacturing Companies
SolarSense provides specialist Solar Operations and Maintenance Services to safeguard the performance, safety and long-term value of solar PV and battery storage systems in manufacturing environments.
Using a proactive, data-led approach, our engineers identify issues early, prioritise preventative maintenance and deliver clear, actionable reporting. This helps manufacturing businesses to maximise on-site energy savings, improve system reliability and extend asset lifespan.
From individual rooftop installations to complex, multi-site portfolios, SolarSense delivers responsive support, transparent service plans and expert guidance, keeping your solar PV and energy storage assets operating safely, efficiently and in full compliance over the long-term.
Choosing the Right Clean Energy Partner
SolarSense is an employee-owned, Certified B Corporation, embedding social and environmental responsibility into every project. Accredited to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, we deliver fully compliant, quality-assured clean energy systems designed for demanding industrial environments.
With 30 years of commercial solar and energy storage experience, award winning projects and proactive Operations and Maintenance support, you gain a trusted partner focused on safety, reliability and measurable savings.
Every system is engineered with future expansion in mind. Install solar PV today to secure immediate cost and carbon savings, then seamlessly integrate battery storage, solar carports, EV charging and other clean energy technologies as your site and operational needs evolve.
Our Projects
Industrial-Scale Solar and Energy Storage
Established in 1995, SolarSense is one of the UK’s longest-established commercial solar specialists, with three decades of experience delivering industrial-scale solar, energy storage and solar carport projects.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of solar panels and energy storage for manufacturing companies?
Solar panels and energy storage help manufacturing companies cut electricity costs, reduce reliance on grid power, improve sustainability credentials and increase energy resilience. Stored solar energy can be used during peak demand or outages, lowering overall operating costs and carbon emissions.
How much can solar reduce electricity costs for factories and industrial sites?
Solar PV allows manufacturers and factories to generate electricity for around 4p to 6p per kWh, compared with typical UK grid electricity prices of 25p to 30p per kWh. Many manufacturing sites reduce grid electricity consumption by 30–60%, with battery storage further increasing savings.
What is the return on investment (ROI) for commercial solar and energy storage?
Most UK manufacturing businesses achieve a return on investment within 4 years, depending on system size, energy demand, tariff structure and funding model. After payback, solar systems continue delivering savings for 25 years or more.
Can solar and battery storage improve ESG and CSR performance?
Yes. Installing solar PV and energy storage reduces scope 2 emissions, supports net zero targets, and provides measurable ESG and CSR outcomes. On-site renewable energy also strengthens environmental reporting and credibility with customers, investors and regulators.
Does installing solar increase the value of manufacturing facilities?
Yes. Solar PV and battery storage can enhance asset value by lowering long-term operating costs, improving EPC ratings and making industrial sites more attractive to occupiers and investors focused on energy efficiency and sustainability.
Are there grants available for businesses to install solar panels?
There are often grants and incentives available for renewable energy technologies. In addition, commercial solar panels are classed as plant and machinery for tax purposes, making them eligible for capital allowances. Our renewable energy consultants can advise on what is currently available for your business.
How long does it take to install solar panels on a manufacturing facility?
Commercial solar installations for manufacturing sites typically take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on system size, roof condition, grid connection requirements and whether battery storage or solar carports are included.
Will solar installation disrupt manufacturing operations?
No. Most installation work is carried out externally. Electrical connections are carefully scheduled around production requirements to ensure safety and continuity, minimising disruption to manufacturing operations.
Do manufacturing sites need planning permission for solar panels?
Many commercial solar installations fall under permitted development in the UK. Planning permission may be required for listed buildings, conservation areas, solar carports or ground-mounted solar PV systems. SolarSense manages planning assessments and applications where needed.
What site requirements are needed for solar and energy storage installations?
Suitable sites typically have a structurally sound roof or available land with good solar exposure, space for solar panels, inverters and solar batteries. SolarSense conducts detailed structural and electrical surveys to confirm site suitability.
Do solar panels require maintenance after installation?
Commercial solar panels require very little maintenance. Systems are designed to operate reliably for decades, with remote monitoring and routine inspections ensuring optimum performance. For funded systems, all maintenance and performance management is handled by the system owner. For owned systems, SolarSense has a dedicated operations and maintenance division and provides long-term O&M services to maximise energy generation and protect your investment.
Do solar batteries require maintenance after they are installed?
Solar panels do require regular (professional) maintenance after they have been installed, and it’s recommended to arrange for this at least once a year. Checks will be carried out on any corrosion within the battery and the charge levels of the battery itself. The battery will also be cleaned if required and inspected for other signs of physical damage. Wiring is also checked to ensure that it is connected correctly and for signs of damage. The frequency can vary, and we will advise you on this after we have installed your new or replacement system.
How long will my solar panels last?
Commercial solar panels are built to last for up to 40 years. A wide range of panels come with performance warranties of 25 years or more, meaning they continue to generate clean electricity long after the system has paid for itself. Inverters and electrical components may be replaced during the system’s lifetime, but the panels themselves deliver decades of reliable, low-cost energy for your building.
How do solar panels generate electricity for my property?
Solar PV systems harness free energy from the power of the sun. Once sunlight hits the PV cell, it causes a reaction that excites the unstable electrons, generating direct current (DC) electricity. This is then passed to the inverter, which converts the DC to alternating current (AC) to power your business.
What is solar battery storage?
Solar battery storage implements a battery or batteries that can store solar electricity for later use. They can also be charged with grid electricity to take advantage of off-peak rates. Battery storage helps protect your business from potential rationing and brownouts, and an emergency power supply system can provide power during a power cut.
Do solar panels still work in cloudy weather?
Yes, solar panels will still generate electricity during the day, even if it’s cloudy and overcast outside. Their efficiency may be lower, but energy will still be produced.
Downloads
- Manufacturing and Engineering Clean Energy Guide
- Commercial Landlords Clean Energy Guide
- SolarSense Brochure
- TCL 450W Solar Panel Data Sheet
Contact Us
Speak to our expert team about renewable energy and find out what your business could save with solar PV, battery storage and solar carports.
SolarSense,
Unit 1A,
Tweed Road Industrial Estate,
Bristol,
BS21 6RR
SolarSense,
Sophia House,
33-35 Cathedral Rd,
Cardiff,
CF11 9HB