Fast builds, slow regret

Darren Lewis | 4/7/2025

Why cutting corners on solar infrastructure is costing the industry.

As pressure mounts to hit clean energy targets, we’re seeing a growing trend in UK solar: build fast, fix later.

At Solar Group Utilities, we operate and maintain utility-scale ground mount solar sites across the UK. What that gives us is a clear view of the downstream consequences when projects are rushed into commission without long-term operation in mind.

We’re talking:

• Poor cable management that fails under seasonal stress

• Inaccessible inverters placed with no thought to maintenance

• Mismatched module strings leading to unpredictable degradation

• Patchy reporting and underperforming sites with no accountability

And yet, many of these issues could have been avoided with earlier input from experienced operators.

Just because something is “shovel-ready” doesn’t mean it’s ready for 25+ years of performance. The irony? Fixing these problems after the fact is always more expensive and more disruptive than getting it right the first time.

Here’s the solution:

Bring your O&M provider in earlier. Let experienced eyes flag the headaches before they happen. It’s not just about cleaning panels and cutting grass — it’s about protecting the ROI of every asset, every day.

At SGU, we’re now working with developers and owners at pre-commissioning stages, helping build out robust strategies that stand the test of time.

Because a rushed build might win headlines, but a well-run site delivers revenue.