Key facts
Last updated: 30 October 2026- Solar on agricultural roofs is usually permitted development in Scotland
- Ground-mounted arrays often need planning permission
- System size is modelled from your actual electricity bills
- Generation estimates use the MCS method for your location and roof
- Interest-free credit up to £30,000, subject to status
- We install through MCS-certified partners
- Last updated: 30 October 2026
Planning and buildings
Do I need planning permission for solar on farm buildings?
In most cases, no. Solar on agricultural roofs is usually permitted development in Scotland, subject to conditions on height, projection and listed buildings. Ground-mounted arrays are assessed differently and often need permission. We check before you commit.
Can solar go on an old asbestos cement roof?
Sometimes. Options include fixing to a sound roof under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, overcladding with new sheeting, or re-roofing first. A structural survey comes first in every case.
Sizing and performance
What size of solar system does a farm need?
It depends on daytime demand, roof or land area and budget. We size each system from your own electricity bills and usage pattern, so a dairy, a grain store and a holiday-let business will each get a different design.
How much electricity does solar produce in Scotland?
Output depends on location, roof orientation, pitch and shading. Your quote includes a site-specific generation estimate calculated using the MCS method, so you are working from your own figures rather than a national average.
Does solar work through a Scottish winter?
Yes, but output is much lower from November to February because days are short and the sun is low. Most generation comes from spring to early autumn, which lines up well with grazing-season dairy loads and harvest-time grain drying. Annual estimates already allow for the winter dip.
Read the farm solar sizing guide
Grid and batteries
Do you handle the grid connection paperwork?
Yes. We prepare and submit G98 notifications and G99 applications to SPEN or SSEN, and design export-limited or zero-export systems where the local grid is constrained.
Should I add a battery?
A battery helps when you use electricity outside daylight hours, such as early-morning milking, or when you have regular midday surplus. We model your usage before recommending one.
Cost, finance and timescales
Is finance available for farm solar?
Interest-free credit up to £30,000, subject to status. Many farm businesses may also be able to claim capital allowances on the equipment; confirm with your accountant.
How long does a farm solar project take?
It depends on system size, roof work and the grid application. G99 approval is often the longest step, especially where network studies are needed. Your quote sets out the expected programme, and we agree install dates around your farm calendar.
Does farm solar need maintenance?
There is no mandatory maintenance standard, but dust, bird fouling and oil mist on farms reduce output over time. Periodic inspection, cleaning and monitoring help keep the system performing.
Who carries out the installation?
We install through MCS-certified partners, who survey, design and fit the system and handle commissioning and the grid paperwork. Your quote sets out exactly who does the work and what guarantees apply.
Also see ground-mounted solar and farm battery storage.