Article Contents
- What Is a Solar Car Park & How Does It Work?
- Unmissable Benefits of Commercial Solar Carports
- Real-World Examples: Seeing It in Action
- Why It’s Ideal for Small to Mid‑Sized Businesses
- Logistics & Process for UK Businesses
- Choosing the Right Commercial Solar Solution
- Government Support & Future Trends
- Is a Solar Carport Right for My Business?
Ever thought your car park could do more than just house vehicles? Welcome to the era of commercial solar carports and solar panel car park – innovative, visible statements of sustainability that double as profit-driving assets.
In this guide, we break down everything from logistics to benefits, with UK case studies that show how businesses are already harnessing commercial solar power while enhancing their brand.
What Is a Solar Car Park & How Does It Work?
A solar car park – also known as a solar power carport – is essentially a canopy of solar panels that sits above parking spaces. These solar PV systems collect sunlight, convert it into electricity via photovoltaic (PV) technology, and route that energy directly into your building or even into on-site electric vehicle (EV) charge points. Electricity not used immediately can be exported under schemes like SEG or used later via battery storage. It’s a simple idea with a high impact.
Unmissable Benefits of Commercial Solar Carports
One of the biggest wins with commercial solar carports is turning unused space into a clean-energy generator. For businesses in warehouses, retail parks, or offices, every shaded parking spot could be producing energy with commercial solar panel installation.
Financially, savings are substantial. Current estimates suggest an 80-space carport in the UK could save up to £28,000 annually on electricity bills by using solar power electricity generated onsite. Add EV charging into the mix and you open additional customer or employee revenue streams.
For public-facing companies, this visible sustainability is a massive boost to ESG and brand image. It signals commitment and innovation, not just lip service.
Real-World Examples: Seeing It in Action
There’s no better proof than results. Here are two scale-up case studies that exemplify commercial solar installations performing beautifully in the UK:
Bentley Motors, Crewe – UK’s Largest Commercial Solar Carport
In Crewe, Bentley’s headquarters boasts a 2.7 MW solar car port, the largest in the UK, covering 1,378 spaces with their solar canopies and generating about 2,668 MWh a year. This represents around 24% of their electricity needs, saving 3,300 tonnes of CO₂ annually. Beyond energy, this striking installation reinforces Bentley’s commitment to green credentials and a sustainable future.
Why It’s Ideal for Small to Mid‑Sized Businesses
You don’t need 1,000 spaces to create an energy efficient benefit. Even compact commercial solar carports adds value through immediate savings, EV charging capabilities, and sustainability credentials.
Small businesses can start with retrofitted canopies over staff parking or shared lots. Even modest installations reduce grid usage and electricity costs, and create eco-friendly workspace – something employees appreciate and clients notice.
Logistics & Process for UK Businesses
Installing commercial solar carports in the UK involves a step-by-step journey that’s well worth it:
Site feasibility
We’ll survey your parking spaces, roof angles, network connection points, and vehicle flow, ensuring the structure fits seamlessly and power lines connect efficiently.
Planning & permissions
Most canopies are covered by permitted development rights. But listed buildings or conservation zones might need consultation. Smartly guides you through any paperwork you may need to complete before installing your commercial solar carports.
Engineering & grid liaison
A design is created, structural load tests done, and G99 applications submitted for grid eligibility. This process offers protection and export limits where necessary.
Supply & build
Our teams install steel structures, mount panels, configure EV chargers if requested, and ensure inverters and meters align with all UK standards.
Commissioning & handover
We perform rigorous testing and certification, connect to the grid, and help with SEG tariff setup. Then we hand over plus ongoing maintenance and monitoring.
Proper planning ensures works are phased to avoid disrupting operations, with flexible installation windows to suit your schedule.
You can find out more about our full commercial solar installation process here.
Choosing the Right Commercial Solar Solution
When comparing options, think beyond just capacity. Look at panel warranties (typically 25 years), structural warranties, monitoring systems, and maintenance plans for your commercial solar carports.
Quality matters, and Smartly works only with trusted partners, employing Europe-built inverters and specifically designed mounting systems for EV charging integration.
Government Support & Future Trends
In the current solar power generation, there’s a strong UK momentum behind solar car parks. The Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ) is exploring mandatory solar on new parking spaces, following France’s lead. Early movers are recognized for their forward-thinking approach.
Government grants like the Workplace Charging Scheme, combined with tax reliefs – the benefits and return on investment stack up fast. And with business energy bills erratic, generating your own power offers stability and predictability.
Is a Solar Carport Right for My Business?
Ask yourself:
- Do you own a commercial building with a car park?
- Are rising energy costs a concern?
- Interested in EV charging benefits for staff or clients?
- Keen to boost sustainability credentials or ESG score?
If you answered yes to any of these, a solar panel car park or solar power carport is worth exploring. It’s a visible statement of your values, and a smart investment.
At Smartly, we’re proud to stand out among leading commercial solar companies in the UK, offering tailored solutions for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re a small enterprise exploring renewable energy for small businesses or a large commercial site ready to take control of your energy future, our team is here to support you every step of the way. From feasibility to installation and beyond, we make it simple, efficient, and built to last.
Ready to transform your car park into a clean energy asset? Let’s make it happen.
