At HeightOn, we believe doing good should also be good for business. Our investment in solar, battery storage and electric transport isn’t just about lowering our carbon footprint – it’s helping us cut costs, increase energy independence, and make smarter long-term decisions.
In short: sustainability has become a business strategy. One that’s already delivering results.
Contents
Our clean energy setup
Since May 2023, we’ve invested in
- An 8kW solar panel system installed by OHM Energy
- A 13.5kWh GiveEnergy battery, installed by Energy Creation
- A fully electric vehicle (Skoda Enyaq), replacing a diesel car
- Smart energy management through Octopus Energy’s off-peak rates
The business case for renewables
Solar & battery savings
Since installation, our system has generated 23,877 kWh of solar energy.
We’ve used around 19,618 kWh onsite, avoiding the need to buy that electricity from the grid.
- Average daytime electricity rate: 27.97p/kWh
- Estimated savings from solar: 19,618 kWh × £0.2797 = £5,488 saved
Our battery has delivered 5,198 kWh, most of which was solar or off-peak charged, allowing us to avoid peak rates or use cheaper overnight electricity (8.1p/kWh).
- Estimated off-peak savings: Assuming a mix of solar and off-peak use, we estimate a further £500–£700 saved via the battery system.
Total estimated energy savings to date: ~£6,000** in just over two years**
From 78% in energy bill savings, to planting over 131 trees. See the results.
Switched On to
Sustainability
How we’re making better choices for people, planet and purpose. Read more.
How we’re powering
a cleaner future
We’ve invested in clean, renewable technology but because it’s the right thing to do. Read more.
EV vs diesel – the driving difference
Our Enyaq has travelled 31,000 miles since we made the switch.
We’ve used around 19,618 kWh onsite, avoiding the need to buy that electricity from the grid.
- Diesel cost (conservative): ~50 MPG = 2,800 litres ≈ £4,200 at £1.50/litre
- EV charging (mostly solar & off-peak): ~8,857 kWh = ~£500 equivalent
Vehicle fuel savings: ~£3,700**
Payback and beyond
Our total investment in solar, battery and EV infrastructure was around £20,000.
In just over two years, we’ve already saved:.
- £6,000+ in energy
- £3,700 in transport
- Combined savings: ~£9,700
That’s nearly 50% ROI in under 30 months.
With energy prices remaining volatile and grid emissions still carbon-intensive, we’re on track to reach full payback well within 5–6 years – and everything after that is future profit and planetary gain.
The carbon + cost double win
Sustainability often gets framed as a cost. But our experience shows it’s an investment – one that’s already delivered:
- Over 7.9 tonnes of CO₂ savings
- Thousands in annual cost reductions
- Greater independence from volatile energy prices
- A future-ready business that’s more resilient, efficient and impactful
For other businesses, here’s the message
You don’t need to be a corporation to make meaningful changes. Whether it’s swapping a diesel fleet, adding a battery, or investing in renewables, the return is real.If you’re looking for better branding and better business decisions, we’d love to talk.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to see a return on investment from solar?
Our setup paid back nearly 50% of the original investment within 30 months. With current energy prices, full ROI is expected in under 5–6 years – after that, it’s all saving.
Does solar still work when it’s cloudy?
Absolutely. Solar panels generate power even on cloudy days, just at lower efficiency. Sunlight still gets through the clouds, and our own system proves it. On overcast days, we’ve seen generation ranging from 5–10 kWh, enough to power workstations, charge our EV, and top up our battery. It’s not just theory – it’s daily reality.
Is battery storage essential for solar ROI?
Not essential, but it significantly boosts value. Our GiveEnergy battery lets us use more solar power onsite and avoid expensive peak rates – adding £500–£700 in estimated annual savings.
What if the sun’s not shining?
We charge our battery overnight using Octopus Energy’s 100% renewable off-peak electricity – meaning we stay low-carbon and cost-efficient even on cloudy days.
Do you need to be a big company to go solar?
Not at all. Our system was designed for a small business. Even modest setups can deliver measurable savings and meaningful environmental impact.
Assumptions & data sources
All savings and CO₂ figures are based on live usage data between May 2023 and September 2025.
Energy savings calculated using standard UK grid rates (Day rate: £0.2797/kWh) and off-peak Octopus tariff (8.1p/kWh).
EV fuel comparison based on average diesel cost of £1.50/litre and ~50 MPG from previous vehicle.
Solar performance based on metered output of 23,877 kWh over 2 years, with 82% used onsite.
Battery efficiency and savings based on 5,198 kWh delivered from the GiveEnergy battery, primarily charged via solar and off-peak electricity.
All figures are estimates for illustrative purposes and rounded where appropriate.
Better for the planet.
Better for your bottom line
That’s what we mean by Big On Better
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