Funded commercial solar PV

Supporting businesses manage the transition to Net Zero
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Why Downing

Preserving business capital

Did you know that Downing funds ground mounted and commercial rooftop solar projects using our private-wire Power Purchase Agreement model? This helps our customers achieve their Net Zero goals without up-front costs.
What is a private-wire Power Purchase Agreement?

A private-wire Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is a long-term agreement between an energy generator (such as Downing) and a consumer for the purchase of energy. For our fully funded ground mounted and commercial rooftop solutions, Downing will fund the entire solar photovoltaic (PV) system including all equipment and installation allowing your business to benefit from on-site fixed-price green energy whilst preserving your business capital.

Funded private-wire Power Purchase Agreement benefits

No upfront costs means that opting for a power purchase agreement could generate savings for your business from day one, with these benefits continuing for the full length of the agreement. In addition, a private-wire PPA provides long-term price certainty by locking in a fixed electricity rate, protecting your business from market volatility and rising energy costs.

Avoided non-commodity costs

Private wire Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) allow businesses to source electricity directly from a renewable generator via a dedicated connection, bypassing the national grid. This arrangement eliminates costly non-commodity costs that typically inflate energy bills.

A positive message for all

Installing on-site renewable generation is not only a good financial decision - it is a way for your business to send a positive message about its commitment to fight climate change and a transition to Net Zero:

  • Technology that contributes to decarbonisation
  • Long-term financial planning with locked-in rates
  • Expert advice and project management
  • Energy price savings with flexible terms
  • Single point of contact with full transparency
  • Partner with an established investment company and renewable energy developer
2010
Novemeber
First UK wind construction asset investment
A capital investment into a business developing small scale wind farms in the UK with over 100 pipeline sites. We subsequently made further capital investments to fund the construction of these wind farms.
1. Assess
We assess the potential of your site and gather data regarding your current electricity usage and pricing. 
2. Proposal
We provide you with a proposal demonstrating the potential financial savings compared to your current agreement and carbon reduction forecasts. 
3. Lease agreement
We either lease land for ground-mounted Solar PV systems or lease the airspace above your commercial roof to install and operate rooftop solar installations.
4. Installation
We install the solar PV system with minimal disruption to your business.
5. Operation
You enjoy fixed-price electricity bills for 25 years with no maintenance or ongoing operational costs.
Ownership
At the end of the term, ownership of the system transfers to you to enjoy free solar PV electricity for the remainder of the system life.
Benefits

Why partner with Downing?

If you enter a Power Purchase Agreement partnership with us, we take on many of the risks associated with the system for the full 25-year agreement. These include:
Responsibility for operation, maintenance, parts-replacement and monitoring
Paying for the operation, maintenance, parts-replacement and monitoring
The risk on the system performance
The installation cost
Managing and owning the debt

Power Purchase Agreements  FAQs

Get in touch
Is our site suitable for a private-wire Power Purchase Agreement?

At the start of each project, we will visit the site to meet with you and conduct a detailed feasibility study which will identify the best potential location for a solar development whether it is on onsite land, neighbouring off site land or a suitable rooftop.

How will the project construction affect our business?

Our solar construction process is carefully managed to ensure minimal disruption. Work is scheduled around your operations, confined to designated areas and completed efficiently - allowing your business to continue running smoothly while we deliver long-term clean energy benefits.

What happens if the solar PV system breaks down or develops a fault?

Downing is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the plant throughout the project life-cycle. In the event of a system fault, we will ensure the appropriate team is in place to rectify the fault returning the plant to full production.

What happens when there is no sunlight?

As part of the PPA, you only pay for the energy Downing supply. Solar technology is becoming increasingly efficient to continue generating on days where there is little sunlight.

How are solar panels fixed to my roof? Will they cause damage?

There are various methods of fixing panels to rooftop spaces including methods where the roof does not require penetration. Following site assessment and detailed design the final fixing method will be decided to best suit the needs of your business operation.

Do I need to wait until my existing energy contract ends before switching?

No, you can generally start receiving your Solar PV energy immediately alongside your existing connection.

How long does a PPA last?

Downing can propose a variety of PPA terms ranging generally from 20 to 30 years in length.

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