Solar & Storage Live 2025 brought together thousands of innovators, developers, manufacturers, and businesses, and the conversations made one thing clear: the solar industry is moving into a new phase of maturity.
From cutting-edge technology on display to the way businesses are rethinking long-term performance, this year’s event highlighted some important shifts. Here are the three biggest trends we noticed during our time at the exhibition.
- Smarter, more efficient solar panel designs
Solar hardware continues to evolve, and this year the spotlight was firmly on new panel designs. Manufacturers showcased panels that not only offer higher efficiency but also improved durability and flexibility.
For example, bifacial technology, where panels capture energy from both sides, was a hot topic, as it promises to boost energy generation without requiring extra space. Likewise, panels integrated with storage solutions are beginning to make solar systems more adaptable and self-sufficient.
For businesses, this matters because better panels mean shorter payback times and stronger returns on investment. As solar becomes more competitive, these advances will help make the technology accessible to a wider range of organisations.
- O&M takes centre stage
One of the biggest shifts we noticed was the increased interest in operations and maintenance (O&M). Traditionally, many projects have been heavily focused on installation, with less attention paid to how systems perform over the long term.
At this year’s event, the message was clear: solar O&M is no longer optional; it’s essential.
Companies are starting to recognise that underperforming systems cost money, time, and credibility. Discussions often came back to the need for:
- Real-time monitoring to spot performance issues early.
- Preventative maintenance to keep systems running at their best.
- Independent audits and verification to give stakeholders confidence.
At TEST Consulting, this shift resonated with us, because it’s exactly where we’re helping clients. Our SMART-powered O&M combines technology with hands-on oversight, ensuring businesses not only meet compliance requirements but also protect their investments and maximise returns.
- Smaller businesses are stepping into solar
Solar adoption is no longer limited to large corporates with big budgets. At Solar & Storage Live 2025, it was encouraging to see more small and mid-sized businesses (SMEs) making the leap into solar.
Why? Two big drivers stood out:
- Cost savings: With energy prices remaining unpredictable, generating power on-site provides SMEs with more control and stability.
- Sustainability credentials: Customers, investors, and supply chains are increasingly demanding credible action on sustainability. Solar provides SMEs with a visible, measurable way to reduce emissions.
This trend is important because SMEs make up the backbone of the UK economy. As more of them invest in solar, the cumulative impact on carbon reduction and energy resilience will be significant. It also signals that solar is no longer a “nice to have”, it’s becoming a mainstream business decision.
The bigger picture
These three trends, smarter technology, stronger O&M focus, and broader adoption by SMEs, show how quickly the solar sector is maturing. The conversations at Solar & Storage Live highlighted that the industry isn’t just about installing panels anymore. It’s about delivering long-term value, building resilience, and making sustainability a reality.
For businesses, the takeaway is clear:
- Look beyond the initial install and think about lifecycle performance.
- Make O&M a strategic part of your solar investment.
- Don’t assume solar is only for large corporates; SMEs can benefit just as much.
How TEST Consulting helps
At TEST Consulting, we’re proud to be part of this shift. Our Solar O&M services, powered by SMART, give businesses the confidence that their systems are working as promised. From pre-installation surveys to real-time monitoring and independent audits, we provide the clarity, accountability, and insight needed to turn solar assets into lasting value.
If you’d like to discuss how we can support your solar projects, get in touch today, and let’s make sure your systems deliver maximum performance and long-term savings.
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