Rising energy costs and long-term price uncertainty continue to push Scottish businesses to take solar energy more seriously.
Yet many organisations still assume that funding and support is limited to community groups or the public sector.
That’s not always the case.
Business Energy Scotland (BES) offers a route for Scottish businesses to access impartial advice, financial support, and clarity when exploring solar and wider energy projects - helping organisations make informed commercial decisions, not rushed ones.
What is Business Energy Scotland?
Business Energy Scotland is a Scottish Government-funded, independent advisory service, delivered by Energy Saving Trust.
It provides free, impartial energy advice to businesses across Scotland, helping organisations understand where energy is being used, where costs can be reduced, and whether investments such as solar genuinely stack up for their business.
Importantly, Business Energy Scotland does not design, supply or install systems, and does not recommend specific installers. Its role is to help businesses gain clarity before deciding how - and with whom - to proceed.
What support is available?
Depending on the business and project type, Business Energy Scotland can offer:
- Free energy assessments and advice
- Interest-free loans to support energy efficiency and renewable projects
- Cashback grants for eligible measures in certain circumstances
Rather than focusing solely on grants, Business Energy Scotland helps businesses assess the overall commercial case — including payback, resilience, and future energy demand - before any installer is appointed.
Why this matters for solar decisions
For many businesses, the challenge with solar isn’t the technology - it’s confidence.
Confidence that:
- the system is correctly sized
- assumptions are realistic
- and the installation fits with how the building is actually used
This is where early advice and proper planning can make the difference between a strong long-term asset and a missed opportunity.
Duncan Booth, Director at ORKA Solutions, comments:
“For most businesses, solar is a commercial decision first and a sustainability decision second.
Services like Business Energy Scotland help organisations understand whether solar makes sense for their site and operations, before committing to an installation. That clarity is invaluable.”
How ORKA Solutions supports businesses
Westhill-based ORKA Solutions works with businesses across Scotland to design and deliver commercial solar systems that reflect real-world usage, future growth, and wider energy strategy.
That includes considering how solar may interact with:
- battery storage
- EV charging
- and changing operational demands over time
By taking a joined-up approach, businesses can avoid retrofits and maximise long-term value.
Next steps for businesses considering solar
Organisations thinking about solar should:
- start with good, impartial advice
- understand the numbers and site constraints
- and explore funding or finance options as part of a wider plan
Business Energy Scotland can provide an impartial starting point — but successful projects depend on good design, realistic assumptions and experienced delivery partners.
👉 More information is available at Business Energy Scotland.
Westhill-based ORKA Solutions delivers expert support and seamless solar, EV and battery solutions for businesses across Scotland.