At IMHX UKWA shared the results and implications for the industry and for future government policy of its major research report into solar PV for warehouses.
Initially commissioned to explore how solar PV could contribute to the sector’s journey towards net zero, the issue of sustainable energy has subsequently become even more urgent in the light of rocketing energy prices. In short, warehouse operators need to find a solution that reduces carbon emissions AND saves costs.
The findings of our report are nothing short of staggering. Conclusions show that 15 GW of additional solar PV on the UK’s warehouse rooftops could double the solar capacity of the whole of the UK, in turn reducing sector emissions by a significant 2 million tonnes of CO2 per year and delivering massive annual savings on energy costs of up to £3bn.
To put this in context, the National Grid 2022 future energy scenarios considers UK’s solar capacity needs to at least double by 2030 – our report shows that by adopting solar PV the warehousing sector could achieve that goal single-handedly!
Delivering net zero is expected to drive increased electricity demand in the warehousing and logistics sector as MHE, rail and road freight transport transition to electrification. The price of electricity has already risen sharply because of global supply chain shortages and costs are expected to continue upwards.
Solar PV is widely predicted to be a major part of the solution, providing low cost, secure and green electricity, but so far this option has been largely unexplored and untapped in our sector.
Yet, solar PV is an excellent choice for warehouses with large scale, typically un-obstructed flat roof space, and solar panels are becoming an increasingly affordable source of renewable energy.
Accordingly, UKWA has developed a comprehensive, step-by-step Toolkit for installing solar PV. We have also created a clear and compelling evidence-based policy paper to demonstrate government that solar PV on warehouses delivers clear environmental and cost benefits not only to businesses in our sector, but to UK plc. This will form the basis for a vigorous campaign to seek government support for warehouses keen to adopt solar PV and reap the obvious benefits.
This is the beginning of a quiet revolution for warehousing – so if you’re part of our sector, please join us!
Clare Bottle
UKWA, CEO
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