Funding Solar PV for Your Business in Scotland: Grants, Loans & PPAs

Switching to solar PV is a smart move for businesses looking to cut energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. But let’s be honest – the upfront cost can be a challenge.

The good news? There are several funding options available across Scotland to help businesses make the transition to clean energy. Whether you’re looking for grants, loans, or a zero-cost Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a rundown of the best funding options out there.

Scottish Enterprise Funding for Solar PV & Renewable Energy

Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) – Funding for Growth

If your business is looking to expand, Scottish Enterprise’s Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) could be a great fit. It’s a discretionary grant designed to support businesses investing in new infrastructure, creating jobs, and driving economic growth.

Who can apply?

✔ Businesses making capital investments that create or protect jobs

✔ Funding amount depends on project size and location

✔ Ideal for businesses investing in solar PV as part of an expansion

R&D Grants – Funding for Innovation

If your solar PV project involves new technology, energy management software, or advanced battery integration, you might qualify for a Research & Development (R&D) Grant.

What’s covered?

✔ Projects focused on innovation & technological improvement

✔ Open to businesses that can show commercial potential

✔ Perfect for those exploring smart solar solutions & energy efficiency tech

Clean Energy Transition Partnership (CETP) – Big Picture Funding

Looking for large-scale support? The Clean Energy Transition Partnership is designed to fund projects that help Scotland move towards net zero emissions.

Why apply?

✔ Grants of up to £5 million for major renewable energy projects

✔ Ideal for businesses looking at energy storage, smart grid tech, and large-scale renewables

Local Council Grants for Solar PV

Glasgow City Council – Green Business Grant

Glasgow-based businesses can apply for a Green Business Grant offering up to £10,000 towards energy-saving measures, including solar PV installations.

Why this matters?

✔ Grants cover up to 50% of total project costs

✔ Supports businesses looking to reduce energy bills & go green

✔ Open to Glasgow SMEs

Aberdeen City Council – Energy Pilot Scheme

If you’re in Aberdeen, you might qualify for the city’s Energy Pilot Scheme, offering grants of up to £10,000 to help businesses improve energy efficiency, including solar PV installations.

What’s in it for you?

✔ Covers up to 50% of project costs

✔ Open to Aberdeen SMEs looking to cut energy bills

✔ Ideal for businesses investing in solar PV & efficiency upgrades

South Lanarkshire Renewable Energy Fund (REF)

Businesses based near participating renewable energy developments (like wind farms) can apply for capital grants to support solar PV installations.

What’s covered?

✔ Open to businesses within 10km of a renewable energy project

✔ Funding to help with sustainability upgrades

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) – Zero Upfront Cost Solar

If your business doesn’t want to invest capital upfront, a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) might be the way to go.

How does a Solar PPA work?

No upfront costs – The system is installed for free

Lower energy costs – Pay a reduced rate for the electricity generated

No maintenance hassle – The provider owns & maintains the system

Best for:

✔ Businesses that want solar but don’t want to invest capital

✔ Companies looking to lock in lower energy rates

✔ Those keen on green credentials without financial risk

🔗 Learn more: Distrikt Energy Solar PPAs

Which Funding Option is Best for You?

There are plenty of options to help your business install solar PV – it just depends on what works best for you.

Funding Option	Best for...	Upfront Cost?
Scottish Enterprise RSA & R&D Grants	Expansion & innovation projects	✅ Possible Grant
Glasgow & Aberdeen Council Grants	SMEs investing in energy efficiency	✅ Grant Available
South Lanarkshire REF	Businesses near renewable energy sites	✅ Grant Available
Solar PPA (Power Purchase Agreement)	No upfront cost solar with savings	❌ No Upfront Cost

At Distrikt Energy, we make solar simple. Whether you want help applying for funding or need advice on solar PV installation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Please get in touch with the team to find out more.