By the PPA Funding team Last updated
Most businesses benefit from solar first, because generating your own power gives the biggest, most direct saving. Battery storage then adds value on top by storing that generation for later. But for sites with little roof or a strong peak/off-peak tariff gap, a battery alone can still pay.
Solar first vs battery first at a glance
| Consideration | Solar first | Battery first |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Generates your own low-cost electricity by day | Stores cheap or off-peak power to use at peak |
| Best when | You have daytime demand and roof space | You have large peak/demand charges or a time-of-use tariff |
| Typical saving | Displaces expensive daytime grid units | Cuts peak-rate and demand charges |
| Works on its own? | Yes — solar alone saves from day one | Yes — a battery alone can shift tariff costs |
| Together | A battery stores your solar surplus for later | Solar recharges the battery for free by day |
| Usual order | Most businesses start with solar | Add a battery after, or where peaks dominate |
Solar usually comes first
Generating electricity on site replaces expensive grid power directly, which is the core saving. If you have suitable roof space and daytime demand, solar is normally the first and biggest step.
Where battery storage earns its place
A battery stores solar for use in the evening, increasing how much of your own generation you use rather than exporting it cheaply. It also shifts cheap off-peak grid energy into expensive peak periods and helps manage demand peaks.
When a battery alone makes sense
If your roof is small or unsuitable, or you have a big gap between peak and off-peak rates, a standalone battery can still cut costs without any solar. The right answer depends on your site, demand and tariff.
This guide is general information, not financial or tax advice. Your circumstances determine what applies — please confirm with your accountant or advisor. Get a tailored proposal →
Frequently asked questions
Can I add a battery later, after solar?
Often yes — many businesses start with solar and add storage as needs evolve. We design with your longer-term plans in mind so future additions are straightforward.
How do I know which is right for us?
It comes down to your roof, energy-use pattern and tariff. A free assessment models the options against your own numbers so you can decide with confidence.
Related guides
- What size solar system does your business need?
- Solar for leasehold and tenanted commercial property
- Protecting your business from rising energy costs
See our funding options, commercial solar and solar by industry pages.