BPF commissions new research to accelerate the UK’s rooftop revolution

The British Property Federation (BPF) today announced it has commissioned new research to unlock the potential of commercial buildings in supporting the UK’s solar energy ambitions.

Commercial buildings – such as offices, retail parks, logistic centres and warehouses – have a key role to play in the generation of solar energy and helping meet the Government’s energy security and renewable energy goals. Studies suggest that warehouses alone have the roof space for up to 15GW of new solar power. However, less than 5% of commercial and industrial rooftops are equipped with solar installations.

To understand why, the BPF has commissioned Cushman & Wakefield to examine the barriers to deploying solar at scale and help kick start a rooftop revolution for the UK’s commercial property sector.

The work is being supported by Forsters LLP and Push Power Ltd.

The research will:

• examine the opportunities for real estate investors, developers and property owners and explore the key factors driving adoption;
• highlight the obstacles and practical challenges facing the sector;
• collect industry insights and showcase examples of innovation and best practice; and
• set out a series of policy recommendations for Government and industry.

The results of the research will be published in late Spring.

Rob Wall, Assistant Director at the BPF, said:

"Commercial buildings have a critical role to play in the generation of solar power but the sector is not delivering on its potential. If Government is serious about energy security and meeting its renewable energy targets, we need a policy environment that makes it easier and more attractive for commercial real estate investors and developers to install solar at scale. Our research aims to provide policymakers and the wider industry with the insights and evidence to achieve this."

Victoria Towers, Head of Commercial Real Estate at Forsters LLP, said:

“Our clients are eager to play their part in the UK’s transition to cleaner energy, but too often they face a range of commercial, legal and practical barriers when seeking to install solar panelling. This research is an important step in identifying the key issues and suggesting practical solutions that will hopefully give property owners and developers the clarity and confidence they need to unlock the full potential of their rooftops.”

Push Power Ltd Managing Director Andy Khan said:

"As the British Property Federation’s founding member in the solar renewable energy sector, Push Power is committed to supporting the federation’s work around sustainability. Through sharing insights and experience and supporting this vital research into solar energy solutions sought by commercial real estate investors, Push Power commits to taking an active role to help deliver a net zero carbon UK property sector.”