How do businesses choose between different types of commercial solar panels?

For many businesses considering installing solar energy, selecting the right type; size; source; and brand of solar panels can quickly become overwhelming. At Eden, we make that easy for you by managing the design process from start to finish. Our clients trust our recommendations, based on an impartial and proven set of criteria to deliver optimal results for each site’s requirements and objective. These considerations include:

Panel Efficiency

An early consideration in any solar project is panel efficiency. This refers to how effectively a panel converts sunlight into electricity. Efficiency levels vary between panel types and that directly influences overall system design. Higher-efficiency panels generate more power per square metre, making them ideal for businesses with limited roof space. While these tend to come at a slightly higher cost, they deliver greater energy output in constrained environments. Conversely, businesses with expansive roof areas or land for ground-mounted systems may find better value in lower-efficiency, more cost-effective panels.

At Eden, we look beyond the headline efficiency figure. We assess real-world performance factors including temperature coefficients (how panels perform on hot days); low-light performance (crucial in the UK); and long-term degradation rates, ensuring the system meets expectations not just at installation, but decades down the line.

Carport solutions from Eden. Bifacial modules allows increased generation as it captures energy from the underside as well as from the top, capturing reflections from the ground

Cost Considerations

Although cost isn’t the sole driver in choosing panels, it remains a key element, especially in terms of return on investment (ROI). For both self-funded and PPA installations we analyse the total cost of ownership, not just the upfront panel cost. In doing so, we consider the installation complexity, ongoing maintenance, performance warranties, and system lifespan. The goal is always the same: to deliver maximum long-term value from your investment.

Ethical and ESG Standards

One increasingly important, but often overlooked, factor is the ethical footprint of your solar investment. Some major solar manufacturers have faced serious scrutiny for human rights violations within their supply chains, including allegations of forced labour. Eden takes a zero-compromise approach to this issue.

As a certified B | Corp, we exclusively partner with manufacturers that meet rigorous Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria and offer full transparency across their sourcing and production processes. Every panel we install is fully traceable. This isn’t just about compliance, it’s about leading by example and helping our clients make impactful, ethical investment decisions that support sustainability in every sense.

Bankability and Long-Term Support

We thoroughly vet every manufacturer for financial strength, global market presence and a reliable UK and European support network. This ensures our clients benefit from robust warranty protection and accessible technical support throughout the system’s lifetime.

Under our Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) model, the funder retains ownership of the solar system, so long-term performance is essential. That’s why we only deploy premium modules backed by a minimum 25-year warranty. Our team operates many of these systems first-hand, giving us direct insight into how technologies perform over time, in real-world conditions. We know, through experience, that long-term system reliability is fundamental to a successful installation.

Powering a more sustainable future.

Choosing the right commercial solar panels is about much more than just price or popularity, it’s a strategic decision that affects performance, compliance, ethics, and return on investment.

At Eden, we simplify the process by applying a rigorous, experience-led approach tailored to your specific goals. With expert guidance, trusted technology partners, and a commitment to long-term performance, we ensure your solar investment delivers, today, tomorrow and for decades to come.

If you’re thinking about making the switch to a more sustainable energy future, then contact us via our website and we’d love to help you unlock the benefits.