The Ultimate Buyer's Guide to Commercial Solar Carports for UK Businesses and EPC Contractors

Last updated: 24 March 2026About the Author

Keith Lin is the Director of KLY Solar (KLY Global Ltd), a UK supplier of solar carport structure kits for commercial project teams.

Solar carports are becoming a popular choice for UK businesses and EPC contractors looking to combine renewable energy generation with practical parking solutions. Unlike traditional rooftop solar panels, solar carports offer unique benefits and specific challenges that require careful planning and design. This guide covers everything you need to know about commercial solar carports in the UK, from structural types and certification requirements to planning permission and funding options.

Commercial solar carport with solar panels over parking bays

What Is a Solar Carport and How It Differs from Rooftop Solar

A solar carport is a freestanding structure that supports solar panels above parking spaces. It provides shade and protection for vehicles while generating electricity. Unlike rooftop solar, which is installed on existing building roofs, solar carports create new surfaces dedicated to solar energy production.

Key differences include:

• Location flexibility: Carports can be installed where rooftop space is limited or unsuitable.

• Dual use: They combine parking and power generation, maximizing land use.

• Structural independence: Carports have their own support frames, reducing load concerns on buildings.

• Potential for EV charging integration: Carports can easily incorporate electric vehicle charging points.

  
  

Solar carports suit commercial sites with large parking areas, such as offices, retail parks, hospitals, and universities.

Key Structural Types: Single Cantilever vs Double Cantilever

Choosing the right carport structure depends on site layout, parking requirements, and budget.

• Single Cantilever

Supported by columns on one side only, with the solar panels cantilevered over the parking bays. This design offers easier vehicle access and fewer obstructions but requires stronger beams and supports.

• Double Cantilever

Supported by columns on both sides of the parking bays, creating a symmetrical structure. This type is generally more stable and can cover wider bays but may reduce headroom and vehicle manoeuvrability.

Both types must be designed to withstand UK weather conditions and comply with structural standards.

Steel Frame Certification Requirements for UK Commercial Sites

Steel frames for solar carports must meet strict certification standards to ensure safety and durability:

• EN 1090-1 FPC to EXC2

Fabrication must comply with the Factory Production Control system under Execution Class 2, suitable for commercial structures.

• Hot-dip Galvanised to EN ISO 1461

Steel components require hot-dip galvanising to protect against corrosion, extending the lifespan of the carport.

• EN 10204 3.1 Mill Certificates

Material traceability is essential. Mill certificates confirm the chemical and mechanical properties of steel used.

These certifications are mandatory for commercial projects and often required by Building Control.

Planning Permission Requirements for UK Commercial Solar Carports

Planning rules vary depending on location and project scale. Many commercial solar carports fall under Class Order A permitted development rights, meaning they do not require full planning permission if they meet certain criteria:

• The carport must be within the curtilage of an existing commercial building.

• Height limits typically apply (usually under 4 metres).

• The structure should not cover more than 50% of the land around the building.

  
  

If these conditions are not met, a full planning application is necessary. Early consultation with local planning authorities helps avoid delays.

Planning and permitted development rights vary by site type, height, location, and local authority. In England, there is a permitted development route for solar canopies on non-domestic car parks subject to conditions. Rules differ in Scotland and Wales. Always confirm your position with a qualified planning consultant.

Structural Design Considerations

Designing a solar carport requires careful attention to structural loads and dimensions:

• Wind Loads

UK wind speeds vary by region. Carports must be engineered to resist uplift and lateral forces, especially in exposed locations.

• Snow Loads

Snow accumulation adds weight. The structure must support local snow load requirements, which differ across the UK.

• Bay Dimensions and Column Spacing

Typical bay widths range from 2.4 to 3 metres per parking space. Column spacing affects vehicle access and structural costs. Wider bays reduce columns but require stronger beams.

• Height Clearance

Minimum clearance is usually 2.1 to 2.4 metres to accommodate vehicles safely.

Structural engineers use these factors to create safe, cost-effective designs.

How to Size a Solar Carport System for a Commercial Car Park

Sizing depends on available space, energy needs, and budget:

• Calculate the number of parking bays to be covered.

• Estimate panel area per bay (usually 15 to 20 m²).

• Determine system capacity based on panel wattage (e.g., 400 Wp panels).

• Consider shading, orientation, and tilt angle for optimal energy yield.

  
  

For example, a 20-bay carport with 18 m² per bay and 400 Wp panels could generate around 3.6 kWp per bay, totaling approximately 72 kWp.

Panel Specification and Inverter Options

Panels should be high-efficiency, durable, and suitable for outdoor use:

• Monocrystalline panels are common for their efficiency and aesthetics.

• Panels must have good low-light performance and weather resistance.

  
  

Inverters convert DC power to AC and must match system size:

• String inverters are cost-effective for uniform arrays.

• Microinverters offer module-level optimization, useful for shaded or complex layouts.

  
  

Selecting reliable brands with UK support is essential for long-term performance.

Integrating EV Charging Points

Solar carports provide an excellent platform for electric vehicle charging:

• Chargers can be connected directly to the solar system or the grid.

• Smart charging systems optimise solar use and reduce grid demand.

• Consider future-proofing with additional capacity and conduit for wiring.

  
  

EV charging infrastructure is typically specified and installed by the EPC contractor or a specialist installer — it is not part of a supply-only carport frame kit.

Building Control Submission Requirements and Structural Calculations

Building Control requires detailed documentation before installation:

• Structural calculations demonstrating compliance with UK standards.

• Certification of materials and fabrication processes.

• Site plans and elevations showing the carport layout.

  
  

A comprehensive structural calculation package ensures smooth approval and reduces risks of costly redesigns.

Buying a Carport Kit vs Turnkey Installed Programme

Two main procurement options exist:

• Carport Kit (Supply-Only)

Suppliers like KLY Solar provide pre-engineered kits with components and instructions. This option suits experienced installers or EPC contractors with in-house capabilities.

• Turnkey Installed Programme

The supplier manages design, supply, installation, and commissioning. This reduces project management burden but may cost more upfront.

Choosing depends on your team’s expertise, timeline, and budget.

Cost Factors for Commercial Solar Carports

Several factors influence the total cost of a commercial solar carport project:

• Structural design complexity (single vs double cantilever, span width, wind zone).

• Steel grade, galvanising specification, and number of bays.

• Module type and mounting method.

• Foundation requirements and site access constraints.

• Delivery logistics and lead time.

  
  

Contact KLY Solar with your site layout and requirements for a site-specific priced proposal within 5 working days.

Questions to Ask a Solar Carport Supplier Before Committing

Before placing an order, clarify:

Clear answers help avoid surprises and ensure project success.

Commercial solar carports represent one of the most compelling on-site energy investments available to UK businesses today. Whether you are a logistics operator, retailer or manufacturer, the combination of clean energy generation, covered parking and flexible finance makes them hard to ignore. To find out more about what KLY Solar can supply, visit our solar carports page or contact us to request a quote.

Last reviewed: March 2026

Planning and permitted development rights vary by site type, height, location, and local authority. In England, there is a permitted development route for solar canopies on non-domestic car parks subject to conditions. Rules differ in Scotland and Wales. Always confirm your position with a qualified planning consultant or your local planning authority. Official guidance: gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales

Sources and further reading

GOV.UK — Planning permission: gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales

Solar Energy UK — solarenergyuk.org

Ofgem — Energy regulation and grid connection: ofgem.gov.uk

For current pricing, request a site-specific priced proposal — we return one within 5 working days of receiving complete inputs.