Installing a commercial solar energy system in Northern Ireland offers so many positives to businesses – lower energy costs, improved sustainability and often, average payback periods of 3-4 years, depending on electric usage. However, it can be a bit more complex to fit a large commercial solar system compared to a smaller, domestic one. This blog will provide useful information on available grants for businesses and payback periods for commercial solar PV systems. We’ll also briefly explain the system size regulations and application processes with the Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) board – G98 vs G99 systems as well as single vs three-phase power. Rest assured, you’re in safe hands with First Class Solar.
Grants for Commercial Solar, Payback Period and Investment
Invest NI Energy Efficiency Capital Grant is currently offering an amazing grant to eligible businesses hoping to install energy-efficient equipment that lowers energy needs and improves sustainability – this of course, means a grant for solar PV for businesses. Small businesses may be entitled to grants up to 50% of the project cost. For more information, including eligibility, see the Invest NI website.
On top of the fantastic grant from Invest NI, investing in commercial solar in Northern Ireland just makes sense – with high electricity costs, we have found that for First Class Solar’s commercial clients, the investment can be recouped between 3-8 years. As each business is different, we calculate each system’s payback individually, taking into account current electric prices, electric usage and system design.
On top of the payback period, modern solar panels come with long warranty periods – the Tier 1 panels First Class Solar use have warranties of 25 and 30 years as standard. Having this long-term reliability means that not only does your business have peace of mind, but it also guarantees a steady return on investment over decades! Businesses can feel confident investing in solar – a quick payback period, 25-year warranties on the solar panels, along minimal maintenance requirements mean that commercial solar systems are guaranteed to remain productive well into the future – saving you more money.
G98 vs. G99 Standards with NIE
In Northern Ireland, connecting a commercial solar system to the grid requires adherence to either the G98 or G99 standards set by Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE).
G98 Standard is considered a “Fit and Inform” process, applicable to smaller installations with a maximum capacity of 3.6kW for single-phase connections and up to 11.04kW for three-phase connections. This standard is designed for simplified and quicker grid connection processes, ideal for domestic properties, smaller commercial setups or phased expansions of existing systems. Approval from NIE is not required to fit a G98-compliant system.G99 Standard applies to larger installations, allowing up to 17kW for single-phase connections and much higher capacities for three-phase connections. This standard involves a more detailed application process and grid impact assessments, suitable for larger commercial projects aiming for substantial energy generation. To fit a G99 system, First Class Solar would submit an application form to NIE on your behalf. Applications take several months to be processed by NIE, and installation can only go ahead once approval has been granted.
Single-Phase vs. Three-Phase Power Systems
Knowing whether your business is single-phase or three-phase power makes a big impact on the design and capacity of an appropriate commercial solar installation.
Single-phase systems are typically limited to a maximum of 3.6kW under the G98 standard and up to 17kW under the G99 standard. Single-phase power is common in smaller commercial buildings and can adequately support modest solar installations. However, for businesses with higher energy demands, this may not be sufficient.
Three-phase systems can accommodate much larger solar installations, with a maximum of 11.04kW under the G98 standard and significantly higher capacities under the G99 standard. Three-phase power is more suitable for larger commercial buildings and industrial facilities, allowing for the integration of extensive solar arrays that can produce substantial amounts of electricity. Businesses can apply to upgrade their line from single to three phase with NIE, meaning a larger capacity for solar power.
So, we can see that installing commercial solar in Northern Ireland means a lucrative opportunity for businesses to reduce energy costs, increase sustainability, and achieve a swift return on investment. Especially if approved for a commercial solar grant by Invest NI! Businesses can leverage long warranty periods, and with advice from the expert team at First Class Solar, navigate the G98 and G99 standards with NIE to optimise their solar energy systems for maximum benefit. With careful planning and consideration, commercial solar power can be a transformative investment for businesses in Northern Ireland, delivering long-term financial and environmental advantages.
