# How much do commercial solar panels cost in the UK?

The cost of a commercial solar system depends mainly on its size, your roof and how much electrical work is involved. Buying outright means a capital cost per kilowatt installed; under a PPA there is no upfront cost at all — you simply pay for the power the system generates at a rate below the grid.

## What drives the price

The biggest factor is system size (kWp), followed by roof type and condition, access, and any electrical or grid-connection works. Larger systems generally cost less per kilowatt because fixed costs are spread across more capacity.

## Buying versus a PPA

If you buy outright, you pay a capital sum and own the system. Under a PPA there is no capital cost — the provider funds, installs and maintains everything, and you pay only for the energy used. That removes the price barrier entirely and shifts the cost to a predictable per-unit rate.

## Getting an accurate figure

Because every roof and load profile is different, the only reliable cost is a tailored one. A free assessment gives you real numbers for your site — whether you want a purchase price or a PPA rate.

## Frequently asked questions

**Is there really no upfront cost with a PPA?**

Correct. Under a PPA the provider covers the full cost of design, funding, installation and maintenance. You pay only for the clean power you use, at a fixed rate below the grid.

**Is buying cheaper over the long run?**

Owning the system can give the strongest long-term return because you keep all the savings, but it needs capital upfront and you take on the asset. A PPA trades some long-term value for zero cost and zero risk. We compare both for you.

## Sources & further reading

- [Solar Energy UK — industry trade association](https://solarenergyuk.org)
- [MCS — installation standards & certification](https://mcscertified.com)
- [Ofgem — Smart Export Guarantee (export payments)](https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/smart-export-guarantee-seg)

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Source: [How much do commercial solar panels cost in the UK?](https://ppafunding.com/guides/how-much-do-commercial-solar-panels-cost) · Author: PPA Funding team · Updated: 2026-07-30

PPA Funding is an independent introducer operated by DVC Group Ltd (Companies House 10462808), Shrewsbury — not the installer or the funder. The service is free to use; a commission may be earned from partner funders at no extra cost. Content is educational and is not financial or tax advice.