Commercial Solar Site Surveys for UK Businesses
Commercial Solar UK carries out professional site surveys for commercial buildings because solar PV systems must be designed using accurate structural and electrical data. We visit businesses across the UK so that every client receives tailored recommendations based on real world conditions.
Commercial solar site surveys are crucial for determining the feasibility and optimal placement of solar panels. By assessing factors like sunlight exposure and shading, these surveys ensure maximum energy production and cost-effectiveness for businesses investing in solar power.
Why Every Solar Project Starts with a Site Survey
A commercial solar system performs properly only when it is designed for the specific site since roof pitch, shading, and load capacity vary from property to property.
Our engineers complete detailed surveys in order to determine feasibility before design or quotation begins.
Businesses request surveys early because they need confidence in performance forecasts before committing capital.
What a Site Survey Includes
Every site survey includes a physical inspection of the roof so that we can check material condition, pitch, and structural suitability. We measure orientation and tilt because these values influence solar generation projections.
Our team performs a shading analysis using on-site tools since seasonal shadows from trees, flues, or nearby buildings reduce energy output. We check the fuseboard and metering location in order to design a compliant and cost-efficient electrical connection.
If you request battery storage, we also assess internal space and cable routing so that future upgrades can be integrated smoothly.
What You Receive After the Survey
After the visit, we provide a full report to the client because informed decisions depend on reliable, site-specific data. The report includes a recommended system size which means you receive a quote based on real output potential.
We also include a generation forecast in kilowatt-hours per year since financial projections depend on energy production.
Additional notes highlight grid connection feasibility and planning constraints so that you know what to expect before any investment begins.
Key Benefits of a Site Survey
| Feature | Benefit | Causal Logic |
|---|---|---|
| Roof inspection | Prevents structural issues | Roof load is checked before design |
| Shading analysis | Accurate yield forecasting | Generation losses are identified early |
| Load profile review | Correct battery sizing | System is matched to demand |
| Meter board audit | Smooth DNO approval | Wiring routes are confirmed in advance |
| Visual evidence | Supports grant applications | Photos document feasibility |
Each task in the survey process is performed for a single technical reason, which means the overall system is safer, smarter, and more predictable.
Step-by-Step Survey Process
We begin with a desktop review of your address and energy data because this provides a starting point for design assumptions.
Our engineer then visits your site so that we can validate roof condition, accessibility, and system layout in person. During the visit, we inspect the electrical system in order to determine inverter location and grid compliance.
If required, we review your energy usage patterns since load profile data is essential for battery integration. We issue your final survey report within 3–5 working days because quick feedback enables faster decision-making.
When Should You Book a Site Survey?
We recommend booking a survey at the start of any commercial solar enquiry because system design depends on structural accuracy.
You should also request a survey if:
- You have a large or multi-roof property, as orientation and layout vary by section
- You’re applying for grants or finance, since proof of feasibility may be required
- You want to combine solar with battery storage, because inverter and cable locations affect installation viability
CASE STUDY: Cairnstone Packaging, Nottingham
Cairnstone Packaging requested a commercial solar site survey because they planned to install a 100kW rooftop system on their production warehouse in Nottingham.
Site Context
- Building type: Single-pitch metal roof (12° slope)
- Size: 1,800m²
- Location: Blenheim Industrial Estate, Nottingham
- Existing load: Peak demand of 48kW
- Energy pattern: 7am–6pm weekday operation
What We Found:
Our engineer visited the site and conducted a full structural and electrical survey because desktop data alone could not confirm roof integrity or shading impact.
Key findings:
- The roof structure was in good condition
- A minor shading obstruction existed due to an HVAC plant
- Fuseboard capacity was limited, which meant a small panel upgrade was needed for export compatibility
- Inverter location was constrained due to wall clearances, so we designed a floor-mount layout
Outcome:
- Recommended system: 100kWp
- Forecast generation: 94,000 kWh/year
- Payback estimate: 4.8 years
- Adjusted inverter spec: 82kW hybrid with oversizing
- Next step: Full design and DNO G99 application
“The rooftop survey identified a capacity issue early on, allowing us to avoid any delays in the design process. The data provided by the forecast gave us the confidence we needed to move forward with our solar panel installation project.”
— David Sayer, Operations Director, Cairnstone Packaging
FAQs
How Long Does a Commercial Solar Panel Installation Site Survey Take?
Our comprehensive surveys typically take between 60 and 90 minutes, as our expert engineers work efficiently to assess your property for the best solar panel installation solutions without disrupting your business operations.
Do I Need to Shut Down Electricity or Business Operations?
No, because the survey is visual and non-invasive. This means that you can continue your daily operations without any interruptions while we conduct a thorough assessment of your property for solar panel installation.
Can I Receive a Quote without a Site Survey?
Yes, you can receive an initial estimate through our desktop assessment. However, it’s important to note that these quotes are based on assumptions and may not accurately reflect the specifics of your location.
Are There Fees for Site Surveys?
We provide complimentary surveys for eligible commercial clients as part of our commitment to facilitating the transition to clean energy.
Book Your Commercial Site Survey
Commercial Solar UK provides free commercial solar site surveys throughout the UK so that every client can receive a reliable, data-backed proposal before committing to installation.
Each survey includes:
- Full roof and electrical inspection
- Shading and layout measurements
- Generation forecast and system design
- DNO connection guidance and upgrade planning