Forecasts suggest that Solar PV deployment on rooftops in the UK is set to exceed 500MWdc in 2022, which reflects our growing awareness of the importance of the technology in meeting net zero targets.
Although this figure includes residential, Solar PV would appear to be an excellent choice for the industrial and commercial sector, particularly warehouse operators, whose premises invariably feature high, large scale flat roofs, which are perfect for such installations.
The rise in photovoltaic self-consumption has seen solar panels becoming an increasingly popular source of renewable energy, as part of the fight against climate change, but also in combatting rising energy costs and mitigating against risks associated with traditional energy supply. The boom in this type of self-consumption is largely the result of technological advances and a decrease in the price of the components needed for these installations.
An important part of our role at UKWA is to support members on their journey toward sustainability. Accordingly, we have commissioned a major research study to explore the case for putting solar panels on warehouse rooftops across the UK.
Our aim is to assess the viability of energy transition and understand the challenges involved, evaluate the likely demand for future energy requirements in the light of the growth of electric fleets of commercial vehicles and mechanical handling equipment as well as warehouse robots, and compare alternative solutions.
The rationale is two-fold. Firstly, since Solar PV is a positive route to improved sustainability for at least some warehouse operators, UKWA will develop a comprehensive ‘How to’ guide for members. Secondly, and arguably more importantly, we will produce compelling evidence for government that demonstrates the potential role Solar PV on warehouses could play in delivering clear environmental and cost benefits to UK plc.
In other words, UKWA will be well positioned to argue for government grants to support the sector in meeting its required targets and lobby for a more conducive regulatory environment. And we should be pushing against an open door.
These days, every business must have a sustainability and net zero strategy. This might mean onsite microgeneration of renewable energy; and for warehousing, Solar PV is often an obvious choice. To find out more, look out for our research project results, which will be available later this summer.
Clare Bottle
UKWA, CEO
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