Solar Thermal vs. Solar PV: Which Works Best for Your Business?

There are numerous grants and government initiatives currently available to help support businesses achieve their carbon reduction targets, with solar technology being at the top of the list for many. Two popular choices are solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems, selected for their ability to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.

Why Go Solar?

Rising energy costs have had many companies feel the pinch. Solar technology offers businesses a way to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower operational costs and meet ESG net-zero goals.

Solar PV Systems

Solar PV panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, powering lighting, equipment, and other electrical systems. Excess energy can be exported back to the grid, creating additional savings. These systems are highly versatile and ideal for businesses looking to:

• Reduce carbon emissions

• Lower electricity bills

• Improve energy independence

Solar Thermal Systems

Unlike solar PV, solar thermal systems harness the sun's heat to produce hot water. This makes them ideal for businesses such as hotels, hospitality and manufacturing that require excessive amounts of hot water throughout the day. By reducing gas consumption, solar thermal can reduce the energy required to heat the water and reduce emissions.

Performance Note: Solar thermal can offset up to 8x more CO₂ per m² than PV. However, output varies seasonally—providing around 90% of hot water in summer but only 10% in winter.

Which System is right for Your Business?

• If you need electricity, choose solar PV

• If you need heat and hot water, choose Solar thermal

• If you want to maximise on your carbon reduction and cost savings, many businesses use both.

Benefits of Solar for Businesses

• Lower running costs

• Reduced carbon footprint

• Compliance with sustainability regulations

• Protections against rising energy prices

• Meet ESG targets
  

Ready to go solar?

Contact us today to discuss the best solutions for your business. B-engineering offer free decarbonisation survey to help you match the right solution for your targets.

Contact Us

Call us on 01925 551 516

Email: hello@b-enggroup.co.uk

Further Reading:

Agrawal, R. (2025) Solar Photovoltaic vs Solar Thermal: Key Differences Explained (2025 Guide). Solar Times. Available at: https://times.solar (Accessed: 14 November 2025).

Soleos Energy (2025) Best 9 Insights on Solar Thermal vs Solar PV: Complete Guide. Available at: https://www.soleosenergy.com (Accessed: 14 November 2025).

Kazem, H.A., Al-Waeli, A.H.A., Chaichan, M.T. and Alnaser, W.E. (2023) ‘Photovoltaic/thermal systems for carbon dioxide mitigation applications: a review’, Frontiers in Built Environment, 9, 1211131. doi:10.3389/fbuil.2023.1211131.