Think Piece
Is Commercial Solar Right for Your Business? Renters, Owners & Strata Explained
Whether you own or rent, we’ll guide you through the best commercial solar options for businesses.

Many businesses are looking for ways to cut operating costs and become more sustainable, and commercial solar power is an attractive solution. But what if you rent your premises? Or what if you own but don’t want to pay upfront?
The good news? A business solar system is still an option—whether you rent, own, or have strata restrictions. And with solar financing for businesses, you can start saving from day one without a major upfront investment.
#Why Businesses Are Moving to Commercial Solar
- Lower Your Energy Costs – Reduce your power bills by up to 70% with a high-efficiency commercial solar panel system.
- Avoid Rising Electricity Prices – Lock in long-term savings and protect your business from energy price hikes.
- Tax Benefits & Incentives – Claim solar rebates for businesses, government incentives, and tax deductions.
- Improve Business Sustainability – Enhance your brand’s green credentials and reduce your carbon footprint.
Whether you own or rent, we’ll guide you through the best commercial solar options for businesses.
#I Rent My Business Premises – Can I Still Get Solar?
A large percentage of Australian businesses operate from leased properties—but that doesn’t mean they can’t take advantage of solar power for businesses.
2 Ways to Get Solar as a Business Tenant
- Work with Your Landlord - Your landlord benefits too! A solar system can increase the value of their property and make it more attractive for future tenants. Propose a system where the landlord owns the business solar system and charges a lower energy rate compared to grid power.
💡 Tip: Many landlords will agree to solar if it means they can reduce outgoing costs (which they usually pass on to tenants anyway). - Look for Off-Roof Solutions - If your lease agreement restricts rooftop installations, consider ground-mounted solar or solar carports. These options work well for businesses with parking lots or open space.
Best Commercial Solar Options for Renters:
- Work with your landlord to install a system (ideally with finance)
- Consider non-roof solutions like solar carports

#I Own My Business Premises – Should I Buy or Finance Solar?
If you own your building, commercial solar panels are one of the best investments you can make—but should you pay upfront or finance it?
Outright Purchase vs. Solar Financing for Businesses
Option | Best For | Key Benefits |
---|---|---|
Buy Outright | Maximise long-term savings, no finance costs | Maximise long-term savings, no finance costs |
Finance (Loan or Lease) | Start saving from day one, cash flow-friendly, tax benefits | Start saving from day one, cash flow-friendly, tax benefits |
✅ Financing a Solar System - Most businesses opt for commercial solar financing to preserve cash flow while benefiting from immediate savings. With financing, your monthly repayments can be lower than what you save on power bills, meaning you save from day one.
💡 Tip: Solar financing options often come with tax benefits, allowing you to claim deductions while reducing your energy costs.
The Best Option for Owners:
- Finance to avoid upfront costs and start saving immediately
- Purchase outright for the biggest long-term ROI

#What If My Business Has Strata Restrictions?
If you own your property but are part of a strata complex, you might face additional hurdles. However, solar is still possible:
✅ Exclusive Rooftop Access – If your strata body allows it, you can install a dedicated system for your business.
✅ Ground-Mounted or Solar Carports – If rooftop installation isn’t approved, consider solar carports or ground-based solar panels.
#Let’s Find the Right Commercial Solar Solution for Your Business
Still unsure how solar power for businesses fits your company? Whether you rent, own, or have strata restrictions, we’ll help you find the best solution to cut energy costs and lock in long-term savings.