Industrial · MW scale

Industrial Solar and PPAs for UK Manufacturing Sites

Last updated 15 October 2026 · Figures indicative

Short answer: Industrial solar PPAs fund 250kWp to 5MW+ systems on factories and distribution centres with no capital, typically at 8–12p/kWh in 2026. Large sites need G99 grid applications, often export limitation (G100) and HV integration; pairing with batteries can cut peak-time (DUoS red band) costs further.

Benchmarks by scale

Indicative industrial solar benchmarks, October 2026
Scale	Roof / land	PPA rate	Purchase cost	Generation/yr
250–500 kWp	1,400–2,800 m²	9–12p/kWh	£780–£950/kWp	0.2–0.5 GWh
500 kWp–1 MWp	2,800–5,600 m²	8–11p/kWh	£750–£900/kWp	0.45–1.0 GWh
1–5 MWp+	5,600 m²+ or land	8–12p/kWh	£700–£850/kWp	0.9–5 GWh+

Indicative for large industrial on-site systems of 1MWp and above, often with private wire. Indicative installed cost 1MWp+.

Grid connection: G99, G100 and constraints

Every MW-scale system needs a G99 application. In constrained areas the DNO may offer a delayed connection date or require reinforcement. Export limitation under G100 often allows faster connection where most power is used on site. Factor DNO timelines into the project plan from day one.

HV, transformers and switchgear

Large systems often connect at your HV intake, which may need new switchgear, protection relays or a dedicated transformer. A detailed electrical survey of your single-line diagram and protection settings is part of design.

Load matching for shift patterns

Two- and three-shift operations and 24/7 base loads absorb almost all solar output, giving high self-consumption. Single-shift sites closed at weekends may export more; size the system against half-hourly data.

Peak shaving and DUoS red bands

Distribution charges are highest in the DUoS red band (typically weekday late afternoons, varying by DNO). A battery charged from midday solar can discharge into that window. See commercial battery storage.

Structural surveys and roof warranties

Large portal-frame roofs need a structural assessment for the added load (typically 12–20 kg/m²). Check whether fixings affect existing roof warranties, and plan for any roof refurbishment before installation.

Off-balance-sheet considerations

A PPA avoids capital expenditure, but large contracts may be reviewed under IFRS 16. Your finance team should assess the draft agreement. Compare with buying in PPA vs buying.

Industrial sectors and structures

Manufacturing, distribution and logistics, cold storage and food processing are the strongest fits. Sites with adjacent land can use a private wire PPA.

Industrial solar FAQs

How long does a G99 application take?

The DNO has set response times for a connection offer — often around 45 working days for larger connections — but the overall timeline, including studies and any reinforcement works, can stretch from a few months to well over a year in constrained areas. Apply early and consider export limitation.

What if the DNO limits export?

You can still connect by fitting export limitation (G100), which caps what flows to the grid. On sites with high daytime demand, little generation is lost; where export would be large, a battery or a smaller system may give better value.

Can solar run 24/7 operations?

Not on its own — solar only generates in daylight. For 24/7 sites it covers part of daytime demand, which still delivers large savings because base load absorbs almost all generation. Batteries extend solar into the evening peak.

Sources

Price ranges for larger systems, running costs, batteries and PPA rates are indicative market ranges from UK installer, funder and market sources; no official series exists above 50kWp.

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