For businesses looking to cut energy costs, reduce carbon emissions, and meet ESG goals, commercial solar is a clear win. But when solar systems are not installed to the highest standards, the consequences can be both dangerous and expensive. Unfortunately, we have met commercial clients who come to us after experiencing the risks of poorly installed solar first-hand or left with a system that is below standard, causing issues where shortcuts were made during the installation.
In this post, we’ll explore the most common issues that arise from substandard commercial solar installations and explain why choosing a reputable, experienced installer from the start is crucial for protecting your investment to ensure your business is protected from the shared risks below.
Safety hazards and compliance issues
Perhaps the most immediate concern when dealing with the risks of poorly installed solar is safety. Commercial systems are large, high-voltage setups with complex electrical components. If these are not installed correctly, the outcome can be severe:
- Faulty wiring or loose connections can lead to electric shocks or arc faults.
- Overloaded circuits or incorrectly configured systems increase the risk of overheating and, in worst cases, fires.
- Improper earthing and isolation techniques can put site personnel at risk and may breach safety regulations.
These risks are not only dangerous – they can shut down operations and lead to serious legal and insurance complications. For any commercial business, electrical compliance isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it’s a fundamental part of operational safety.
Financial fallout: repairs, replacements, and downtime
While a commercial solar array is designed to generate long-term savings, a poor installation can end up costing you more than it ever saves. Businesses experiencing the risks of poorly installed solar can face:
- System inefficiencies, with lower energy yields than promised due to shading issues, incorrect inverter sizing, or misaligned panels.
- Premature component failures, including inverters, cabling, or mounting structures that weren’t installed or specified correctly.
- Operational downtime, particularly if the system fails or needs to be shut down for investigation and reinstallation.
In some cases, businesses are forced to reinvest tens of thousands of pounds just to bring a failed system up to standard. The cost of lost revenue and productivity while a system offline adds further strain, especially for energy-intensive industries. The good news is that this all can be avoided with a company that prioritises installing solar at the highest standard and takes care and attention at every stage of the installation so these issues will never arise. It is worth mentioning that if installers are able to cut costs to win your business, it is essential to understand where those savings are being made and to ensure this is never on the health and safety and workmanship when installing the system which unfortunately is often the case.
Structural damage to the building
Commercial rooftops and structures vary greatly in size, shape, and strength. A one-size-fits-all approach to installation is not only lazy – it can be dangerous. One of the more overlooked risks of poorly installed solar is the impact on the building itself:
- Improper mounting can lead to roof leaks, especially if the waterproof membrane is breached.
- Poor drainage planning might cause water to pool around fixings or cable trays, leading to corrosion or internal water damage.
- Weight distribution issues can strain older or unassessed roofs, particularly on large flat structures common in warehousing or manufacturing facilities.
A commercial solar system must be engineered with the building’s long-term integrity in mind, and that starts with a thorough survey and structural assessment – something many substandard installers skip. We will always share recommendations with clients on any roofing work required before installing solar to ensure the foundations for the array is exactly as it should be and take steps to ensure safety recommendations are shared for both the benefit of installing solar, but also for anyone accessing the roof thereafter.
Non-compliance with regulatory requirements
A compliant solar system isn’t just a technical requirement – it’s a legal one. One of the most frequent and costly risks of poorly installed solar is non-compliance with national grid codes, local planning regulations, or insurance conditions.
This includes:
- Invalid or missing documentation, such as test certificates, commissioning reports, or proper system schematics.
- Failure to register with the DNO (Distribution Network Operator), leading to penalties or grid disconnection.
- Non-compliant inverter settings, affecting grid stability and violating your connection agreement.
For commercial clients working across multiple sites or regions, compliance and paperwork matter. A reputable installer will ensure that every stage of the project is documented, approved, and aligned with regulations. If you choose Harvest Green Developments for your commercial solar install, we take care of all the DNO applications and required documentation ahead of the install and keep you informed every step of the way.
Why quality installation matters more than ever
With commercial energy prices rising and pressure mounting to meet sustainability targets, solar power is a strategic asset. But cutting corners on installation turns that asset into a liability. The risks of poorly installed solar stretch far beyond the panels themselves – they impact your people, your operations, your finances, and your reputation.
We’ve seen first-hand the consequences of poor workmanship, rushed installs, and inadequate planning. That’s why we work exclusively with certified engineers, use high-quality materials, and follow rigorous health and safety processes on every commercial project we deliver. We have been complimented by clients on our attention to detail, minimal disruption to business operations and health and safety compliance in every area and hope to deliver this high standard of installation to your business if you are researching solar specialists to work with.
If your business is considering solar – or if you’ve already had a problematic installation – it’s never too late to prioritise quality. The risks of poorly installed solar are simply not worth the gamble. Whether it’s through underperformance, safety hazards, or legal headaches, a cheap install can end up being the most expensive decision you make.
To find out more about how we can support your commercial energy strategy the right way, get in touch with our team for a no-obligation conversation – you wouldn’t be the first customer to start a conversation from worries of a poorly installed system, and unfortunately, you won’t be the last but we are here to help.
