Can a pub get a tax deduction for solar?

Yes — business can claim Enhanced Capital Allowance: 100% of the solar cost deducted from taxable profits in year one. This effectively reduces the net cost by your corporation tax rate (25%).

Do pubs pay business rates on solar?

Solar panels are exempt from business rates for most commercial installations under 50kW. This makes solar even more cost-effective for pubs.

What about evening electricity use?

Pubs use most electricity in the evening (lighting, music, kitchen). A battery (20-50kWh) stores daytime solar for evening peak. Without battery: solar covers daytime base load (still saves £2,000-£5,000/yr).

Can a pub combine solar with EV charging?

Yes — solar-powered EV charging for customers is a growing trend. Install 2-4 Zappi chargers in the car park, powered by surplus solar. Attracts EV-driving customers and generates additional income.

Solar Panels for Pubs UK

By Home Solar Guide Team|Updated 18 March 2026|guide

Independently written | Evidence-based | Sources cited

Solar panels pub — Pubs spend £15,000-£30,000/yr on electricity. Solar saves £3,000-£8,000/yr.

Find out how much you could save

Answer a few questions and receive personalised solar quotes — completely free.

Start My Quote

Free, no obligation. Takes 2 minutes.

Ready to see how much you could save?

Get 3 free quotes from MCS-certified installers in your area.

Get Free Quotes

Are solar panels worth it for a pub?

UK pubs are excellent candidates for solar: (1) HIGH ELECTRICITY BILLS — £15,000-£30,000/yr (cellar cooling, kitchen, lighting, HVAC). (2) DAYTIME BASE LOAD — cellar cooling, glass washers, and kitchen prep run during peak solar hours. (3) LARGE ROOFS — pub roofs are typically 100-300m² — plenty of space for 20-50kW systems. (4) VISUAL APPEAL — 'solar-powered pub' resonates with eco-conscious customers. System size: 20-50kW (50-120 panels). Cost: £20,000-£55,000 at 0% VAT. Annual savings: £3,000-£8,000. Payback: 5-8 years. ROI: 200-500% over 25 years. FUNDING: Enhanced Capital Allowance (100% first-year tax deduction), business rates exemption on solar, Salix loans for community pubs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related: Home Heating Systems

Solar panels are most powerful when combined with an efficient heating system. Heat pumps use solar-generated electricity to heat your home at 300-400% efficiency — making them the ideal partner for solar.

heat pump running costs in the UK

Heat pumps use electricity at 300-400% efficiency, making them ideal partners for solar.

From our sister site Home Heat Pump Guide