We spoke with our friends at Renewable Hub about their latest offering on Microgrids. Here’s what they said:
Introduction
As energy demand rises and the UK pushes toward low-carbon electricity, organisations are increasingly looking for ways to generate and manage their own power. Solar PV combined with battery storage, often as part of a microgrid, is proving to be an effective solution for reducing carbon, building resilience, and improving long-term energy performance.
What Is a Microgrid?
A microgrid is a local energy system that produces, stores, and manages electricity on-site. Solar panels generate energy during the day, while a battery stores surplus power for use later or during periods of high demand. Microgrids can operate alongside the main grid or independently during outages, giving businesses greater control over their energy.
Why Businesses Choose Solar + Battery
Solar PV is a reliable and proven technology. Adding battery storage allows organisations to:
- Maximise self-generated energy use
- Reduce exposure to peak tariffs
- Increase resilience during outages
- Support decarbonisation targets with measurable results
For many organisations, this combination provides a stable and predictable energy strategy for the future.
Typical ROI and Suitability
Commercial microgrid systems typically see payback periods of 4–7 years. ROI depends on factors like roof or ground space, energy demand, battery size, and participation in grid flexibility programs. Some businesses gain extra value through peak-saving or demand-side response.
Solar + battery systems are particularly suited to:
- Warehouses, logistics hubs, and manufacturing facilities
- Buildings with consistent daytime energy demand
- Sites with high grid dependency or critical operations
- Locations with EV charging plans or limited grid capacity
Where roof space is limited, ground-mounted arrays or solar carports often provide alternatives.
A Strategic Step Toward Net Zero
Beyond financial returns, microgrids provide operational certainty, measurable carbon reductions, and a clear route toward long-term sustainability.
If your business wants to explore whether a Solar PV + Battery microgrid is the right solution, reach out to us to get started:
The Green Energy Solutions Provider for UK Business | Renewable Hub
[1] Photo by Federico Beccari on Unsplash