The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for Commercial Solar Panels
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a government funding programme designed to support local economic growth, productivity and sustainable development across the UK. Delivered through local authorities, the fund focuses on reducing regional disparities by supporting investment in business infrastructure, skills and low-carbon technologies.
Under locally administered UKSPF schemes, eligible businesses may be able to secure grant funding towards the cost of commercial solar panel installations. In some regions, funding can contribute up to 50% of eligible project costs, subject to scheme criteria, available budgets and approval processes.
The increasing emphasis on sustainability within UKSPF reflects the link between long-term economic resilience and environmental responsibility. By supporting commercial solar projects, the fund enables businesses to reduce energy costs, improve operational efficiency and contribute to local decarbonisation objectives.
Free Site Assessment
We will conduct a site-survey and asses your site and energy profile free of charge.
Yorkshire Based Experts
With over 900 successful solar installations across Yorkshire, we’re proud to be the region’s top solar energy professionals.
Fully Accredited Installers
We hold certifications from MCS, NAPIT, RECC, IWA, and Trustmark – quality and compliance guaranteed on every installation.
Bankable Grade Modelling Software
All our commercial quotations are prepared using accurate bankable-grade modelling software.
Turnkey Pricing
Our pricing covers everything: scaffolding, installation, certification, warranty insurance, and VAT – no surprises, just clarity.
Lower carbon footprint
Reduce your carbon footprint and offset the cost of carbon credits whilst increasing your green credentials.
Enquire now to arrange your free site-survey.
Enquire NowThe UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for Solar Panels – Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) support is determined locally and may vary by authority. Under typical schemes, participating businesses are required to meet defined criteria, including:
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government-backed mechanism that allows organisations to receive payment for surplus electricity exported to the national grid from a solar PV system.
Solar is one of the easiest ways to add value to existing infrastructure.
- Being classified as a Small or Medium-Sized Enterprise (SME), generally defined as fewer than 250 employees and a turnover below the applicable threshold.
- Operating from commercial premises within the relevant local authority area. Home-based businesses are typically excluded.
- Remaining within Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) / subsidy control limits, including not exceeding the maximum permitted subsidy received over the previous three years.
- Providing historical energy consumption data, usually up to 12 months of energy bills (or fewer where the business has occupied the premises for a shorter period), to establish baseline usage.
What Eligible Businesses Typically Receive
Businesses accepted onto a UKSPF-supported low-carbon programme may receive structured technical and advisory support prior to applying for capital funding. This often includes:
- An initial assessment and one-to-one guidance from a sustainability or energy advisor.
- Support to understand existing energy usage and identify potential efficiency improvements.
- Referral for a formal energy audit or preparation of a tailored energy and carbon reduction report.
- Assistance in developing an energy improvement plan aligned with operational and financial objectives.
- Guidance on available funding routes, including assessment of eligibility for low-carbon or solar-specific grants.
Carbon Survey and Energy Assessment
As part of the process, eligible businesses may receive a carbon or energy survey, designed to establish current energy consumption and identify opportunities for reduction.
The resulting report typically outlines:
- Recommended energy-saving or renewable energy measures, including solar PV where appropriate.
- Estimated capital costs for each intervention.
- Projected carbon savings and indicative financial returns.
This information enables businesses to make informed decisions regarding investment priorities and funding applications.
Grant Eligibility Considerations
To qualify for UKSPF grant funding, projects are commonly required to meet additional conditions, including:
- The proposed solar installation or measure must be identified within an approved carbon or energy survey.
- The investment must be a capital project, not covering operational or working capital costs.
- The project must demonstrate a net carbon reduction and a return on investment exceeding one year.
- Businesses must comply with subsidy control rules and may be excluded if previous low-carbon grants have already been received under certain programmes.
- Projects must be capable of being completed within the timescales set by the local authority.
- Tenants must obtain landlord consent for any alterations to building fabric where applicable.
Certain technologies or costs (such as electric vehicles) are commonly excluded from funding.
Carbon Survey and Energy Assessment
As part of the process, eligible businesses may receive a carbon or energy survey, designed to establish current energy consumption and identify opportunities for reduction.
The resulting report typically outlines:
- Recommended energy-saving or renewable energy measures, including solar PV where appropriate.
- Estimated capital costs for each intervention.
- Projected carbon savings and indicative financial returns.
This information enables businesses to make informed decisions regarding investment priorities and funding applications.
Discuss Funding Options for Your Commercial Solar Project
Enquire today to understand how grants, incentives and export tariffs could reduce project costs and support long-term value from a solar installation.





