Solar Panels for Warehouses
UK warehouses have huge unshaded south-facing roofs and increasingly run EV fleets that benefit from daytime solar charging. We've fitted 12 warehouse and distribution centre solar systems across Greater Manchester, Salford Quays, and Trafford Park.
The sector advantage
- Roof areas typically 2,000–10,000 m² — accommodate 200–1,000 kWp easily
- Three-phase G99 commercial connections standard
- EV fleet charging during the day = solar diversion saves £15k–£40k/year
- Annual Investment Allowance writes off 100% in year one
- Sustainability ranking matters for Amazon/DHL/FedEx contractor scoring
System sizes & payback
| Customer | Size | Annual saving | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small distribution (3PL) | 100 kWp | £21,000/year | 5.5 years |
| Mid logistics (2,000 m²) | 250 kWp | £52,000/year | 5.2 years |
| Large warehouse (5,000 m²) | 500 kWp | £105,000/year | 4.8 years |
| Mega DC (10,000 m²) | 1,000 kWp + 200 kWh battery | £220,000/year | 4.5 years |
What's different in this sector
Roof penetration vs ballast
Most warehouse roofs are profile metal or flat membrane. Profile metal: clamp-fix, no penetration. Flat: ballast trays, no penetration. We avoid roof penetration where possible to preserve membrane warranty.
EV fleet integration
Daytime EV charging from solar surplus saves £15k–£40k/year on fleets of 8–30 vans. We integrate Wallbox/Hypervolt commercial chargers with solar diversion.
DNO substation upgrade
Large G99 connections (250+ kWp) often require local substation upgrades. We manage the application; budget £5k–£40k variable cost.
Sustainability scoring
Amazon, DHL, FedEx subcontractor scoring rewards on-site renewables. Solar can boost scoring tier and unlock larger contracts.
Real projects, real numbers
120 kWp + 50 kWh battery + 8 EV chargers
NW Logistics Salford Quays
£28,400/year saving, 5.9 yr payback, 92% self-consumption
250 kWp
3PL Trafford Park
£52,000/year saving, AIA £62k year-one tax relief
500 kWp
Distribution centre Wigan
£105,000/year saving, sustainability scoring tier upgrade
Common questions
Will solar void my roof warranty?
How long does a 250 kWp install take?
What's the AIA tax saving on a 500 kWp warehouse?
Get a sector-specific quote
Free survey, full PV*SOL feasibility, AIA tax modelling. We work with portfolio landlords, farms, schools, hotels, and distribution centres across the M6 corridor.