Solar Panels for Businesses
Make a Switch to Solar with the Best Solar Panel Providers in Australia
The solar experts at Agile Energy help with energy storage, backup power, and rooftop solar. Our solar panels for businesses in Australia maximise the use of this energy, Australia's most plentiful renewable resource, and reduce their electricity consumption.
Benefits of Solar Panels for Businesses in Australia
Still wondering what's driving the surge in commercial solar adoption? And why are so many businesses, big and small, opting to use clean, renewable energy to future-proof their operations?
Reduced energy bills
The potential for significant cost reductions is one of the biggest benefits of solar power for business. Businesses can lessen their dependency on conventional energy sources and cut energy costs between 30% to 70% with the sun's power to generate their own electricity.
Government rebates and tax incentives
The Australian government promotes the use of renewable energy through financial incentives like grants, tax credits, and small-scale technology certificates, which can drastically lower the initial costs of installation.
Lower carbon footprint and improved brand reputation
There is a growing expectation among consumers, investors, and staff that the brands they support will take climate action seriously. Incorporating solar energy suggests that your business promotes sustainability and lowers its carbon footprint.
Long-term ROI and energy independence
Commercial solar panel installation is a long-term investment that yields returns. Businesses can gain from feed-in tariffs in addition to lower energy costs.
Are Solar Panels Worth It for Small Businesses in Australia?
Due to growing energy costs and a dedication to sustainability, small businesses in Australia are adopting solar energy at a significantly higher rate, according to recent statistics from the Australian Energy Council.
Small businesses can now lower their electricity costs, earn a substantial return on investment, and help create a more sustainable future by investing in solar power systems.
Short vs long-term benefits
The potential for impressive long-term electricity bill reductions is one of the biggest advantages of installing solar for small business.
Lower system costs due to improved efficiency.
Another aspect of incorporating solar energy is that businesses can reduce their energy expenses and lessen their dependency on the energy grid by producing clean, renewable energy from the sun.
Payback period for small business systems
The cost of solar panels has decreased even more in recent years, while the electricity cost has increased. It is the ideal scenario for a solar business case, and the payback period for solar is usually between one and three years.
For instance, after installing an 18.2 kW system, Bakers Pantry in Noosa was able to save A$3,707 annually. With a five-year payback period, solar was an excellent long-term investment.
How Much Energy Can a Business Save with Solar Panels?
Knowing the financial and environmental benefits of solar energy is why many Australian businesses are switching, whether your goal is to save costs or make your business run more sustainably. Let's explore some factors that affect how solar panels improve the energy usage and financial stability of your business.
Energy Use
The amount of money that can be saved using solar for businesses depends directly on the amount of energy a business uses. Finding the ideal solar installation size to maximise yearly savings can be aided by analysing your company's energy usage trends.
Roof size and system size (e.g., 10kW vs 30kW)
The size of your solar panel system is greatly influenced by the amount of roof space you have, which affects the final cost. For example, a 10 kW system needs approximately 50 - 60 m², while a 30 kW system requires approximately 150 - 180 m², offering more output and greater long-term savings if space allows.
Hours of sunlight
Sunlight hours vary by location, affecting solar output and ROI. For example, Brisbane gets around 5.2 peak sun hours/day, while Melbourne gets around 3.6 peak sun hours/day, meaning the same system produces more energy in Brisbane, making regional irradiance key to accurate system sizing and savings.
Commercial solar system capacity
Assessing future energy demands based on your existing and predicted usage is necessary to determine the ideal capacity for your commercial solar system. It will guarantee that your system supports net metering options and optimises efficiency for your establishment.
Business Type
Average Usage
10kW Solar Savings
Cafe
80kW/ day
Up to A$3,650-4,100/year
Warehouse
200kW/ day
Up to A$9,125-10,270/year
Retail Store
100kW/ day
Up to A$4,563-5,138/year
Small Bakery
120kW/ day
Up to A$5,475-6,165/year
Office Space
90kW/ day
Up to A$4,106-4,189/year
Incentives and Rebates for Commercial Solar Panels for Businesses
Want to slash your rooftop solar costs, boost energy efficiency, and get the most from your green investment? Claim exclusive rebates and incentives backed by the Australian Government - designed to make going solar smarter and more affordable!
Instant Asset Write-Off for eligible SMEs
The instant asset write-off is a game-changer for small Aussie businesses. It lets you instantly deduct the full cost of eligible assets- no waiting, no yearly depreciation. That means better cash flow, less tax now, and faster reinvestment in the tools that drive your business forward.
STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates)
A key component of Australia's Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) is the STC Rebate. Installing qualified renewable energy equipment, like business solar power, can earn homes and small enterprises Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) under this Australian Federal Government program. These tradable certificates reduce the total cost of installing your solar panels, acting as a solar rebate.
Feed-in tariffs per state
In Australia, feed-in tariffs differ by state and even energy retailer; they are not uniform. For example, Victoria's minimum will plummet to just 0.04 c/kWh starting in July 2025, but regional Queensland enjoys a 12.37 c/kWh. During peak hours, WA offers 10°C, while NSW offers 4.8–7.3°C.
Optimise sizing to the Business Energy Needs
Here’s a quick guide:
- Business Size
- Small enterprise
- Medium enterprise
- Large facility
- Suggested System Size
- 5kW - 10kW
- 15kW - 30kW
- 50kW - 100kW+
When Do Batteries Make Sense?
Your consumption patterns will be different depending on the type of business you operate. Businesses that have solar panels can use renewable energy to balance their energy use, but what happens when the sun sets?
When grid energy prices rise, they typically return to grid consumption. Businesses can store their excess solar energy throughout the day and continue using renewable energy sources after the sun has set due to commercial battery energy storage systems (BESS). Here are a few more advantages these solar alternatives provide:
- Avoid high grid electricity costs
- 24/7 backup during power outages
- Connect to Virtual Power Plant programs
- Store excess solar for later
- Improve day-night energy sustainability
- Gain protection from price spikes
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost for a Business in Australia?
- Capacity and size impact cost
- Larger systems need bigger inverters
- Location affects system performance
- Added grid connections
- Inverters convert DC to AC
- Batteries add business battery storage and backup
- Safety systems employed
- Tax incentives reduce upfront cost
- Accelerated depreciation boosts ROI
Here’s a quick guide:
- System Size
- 10kW
- 30kW
- 50kW+
- Estimated Cost (AUD)
- $9,000 – $13,000
- $25,000 – $35,000
- $45,000+
- With Battery
- $18,000 – $22,000
- $40,000+
- $60,000+
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to install solar panels for businesses?
What’s the warranty on solar systems for business?
Can I monitor solar performance in real-time?
Is solar suitable for leased commercial properties?
What’s the difference between 10kW and 30kW systems?
Ready to Power Your Business with Sustainable Energy?
Let's take the first step towards a brighter and greener future.
