Sector · Warehouses & Logistics
A roof you’re not using is a power station you haven’t built yet.
Large flat roofs, ballasted mounts, no penetrations. We’ve installed 250kW+ systems on Bedford warehouses paying back in 4.2 years. Add fleet EV charging and you’ve closed the loop on Scope 1 and 2.
Why Warehouses Are Ideal for Solar
The logistics sector has the perfect characteristics for commercial renewable energy.
Large Flat Roofs
Warehouses typically have vast flat roof areas perfect for solar installations. 10,000m² of roof can accommodate 1MW+ of solar capacity, generating significant electricity and savings.
High Energy Demand
24/7 operations, lighting, materials handling equipment, refrigeration, and climate control create high electricity consumption that solar can offset directly.
Fleet Electrification
Delivery fleets are rapidly electrifying. Depot charging infrastructure powered by on-site solar dramatically reduces transport fuel costs and emissions.
Supply Chain Pressure
Major retailers and brands increasingly require supply chain partners to demonstrate carbon reduction. Solar and EV infrastructure help meet these requirements.
Peak Demand Charges
High maximum demand from equipment and charging creates significant capacity charges. Battery storage can reduce peak demand by 30-40%, cutting these costs substantially.
Rapid Payback
Combination of large system size, high self-consumption, and multiple revenue streams delivers typical payback of 4-6 years on warehouse solar installations.
Solutions for Warehouses & Logistics
Roof-Mounted Solar PV
Maximise your flat roof asset with a large-scale solar installation. Our structural engineers assess roof loading capacity, and we use lightweight ballasted systems that require no roof penetrations.
- Systems from 100kWp to 2MW+
- Ballasted mounting - no roof penetrations
- Works with most industrial roof types
- Remote monitoring and maintenance
Fleet & Depot EV Charging
Prepare for fleet electrification with depot charging infrastructure. Charge delivery vans overnight on cheap off-peak electricity or from on-site solar.
- Overnight depot charging for vans/trucks
- High-power rapid charging for fast turnaround
- Load management to avoid supply upgrades
- Solar-powered charging for lowest cost
Battery Storage & Peak Shaving
Reduce punishing demand charges by shaving peak electricity consumption. Store cheap overnight electricity or excess solar for use during expensive peak periods.
- Reduce maximum demand by 30-40%
- Store solar for evening/overnight use
- Backup power for critical systems
- Grid services revenue opportunities
Solar Car Park Canopies
Turn visitor and staff car parks into solar generating assets. Solar canopies provide covered parking while generating clean electricity and housing EV chargers.
- Additional solar capacity beyond roof
- Covered parking for staff/visitors
- Integrated EV charging points
- Visible sustainability statement
Warehouse-Specific Considerations
We understand the unique requirements of logistics and distribution operations.
Roof Loading Assessment
Industrial roofs vary significantly in structural capacity. We work with structural engineers to assess loading and specify appropriate lightweight mounting systems that won't compromise your roof.
24/7 Operations
Many warehouses operate around the clock, creating high baseline electricity consumption perfect for solar self-consumption. We design systems to maximise daytime generation coverage.
Refrigeration & Cold Storage
Cold storage facilities have huge energy demands. Solar can offset a significant portion of refrigeration costs, and thermal storage can provide additional demand flexibility.
Minimal Disruption Installation
We understand operational continuity is critical. Our installation teams work around your operations, typically accessing roofs early morning or during quieter periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
We use ballasted mounting systems that don't penetrate the roof membrane, so your existing roof warranty typically remains unaffected. We also work with roofing contractors to ensure compatibility and can arrange installation alongside scheduled roof maintenance or replacement.
Savings depend on roof size, electricity consumption, and tariff rates. A typical 200kWp warehouse installation can generate 180,000+ kWh annually, saving £30,000-£50,000 per year at current commercial electricity rates. With 4-6 year payback and 25+ year system life, the lifetime value is substantial.
Yes, in most cases. We conduct structural assessments to determine roof capacity and specify appropriate mounting systems. If your roof is approaching end of life, it may make sense to coordinate solar installation with roof replacement for optimal results.
We design depot charging infrastructure based on your fleet size, vehicle types, and operational schedules. Most fleets charge overnight on cheaper off-peak tariffs or from stored solar. For rapid turnaround requirements, we can specify high-power DC chargers. Load management ensures charging doesn't overwhelm your electrical supply.
Warehouse Success Story
200kWp Warehouse Solar Installation
A distribution centre near Bedford installed a 200kWp solar system covering their 4,000m² flat roof. The system generates over 180,000 kWh annually, reducing grid electricity consumption by 60% and saving £35,000 per year.
Ready to Reduce Your Warehouse Energy Costs?
Get a free roof survey and discover how much your warehouse could save with solar, battery storage, and EV charging.
Request Free Roof Survey Call 07944 275171