RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGIES
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SIX KEY WAYS ROOFTOP SOLAR ENERGY CAN BENEFIT MODERN BUSINESSES
As the UK continues to work towards its 2050 Net Zero
target, the need for sustainable energy solutions continues to grow. Jamie Shaw, MD of Shawton Energy, shares
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ommercial solar energy systems, such as rooftop solar PV panels, are one of the
ways modern businesses are going green – maximising space and efficiency in the process. In fact, it was announced at the start of the year that the installation of rooftop solar panels hit a 12-year high in 2023. By embracing on-site solar power, companies
can not only cut their energy costs but also achieve their long-term sustainability goals, and increase their energy resilience.
1. ACHIEVING RESILIENCE OF SUPPLY One main advantage of rooftop solar energy is the resilience it offers against fluctuating grid prices. Businesses can hedge around 20-25% of
their energy needs with solar power, providing a stable and predictable source of electricity. This strategic hedging helps shield companies from the volatile energy market, ensuring more predictable operating costs. Unlike conventional energy sources, the cost of solar power remains constant over time, too. This safeguards businesses from unexpected price hikes while also supporting long-term financial planning. A recent PwC survey has also revealed that
81% of businesses expect energy companies to significantly or moderately increase the price of their products and services over the next two years. Furthermore, 72% expect high energy prices to negatively impact profits. As a result, it’s never been more important for organisations to take control of their energy generation – mitigating cost implications for both their bottom line and that of their customers.
2. GREATER ENERGY INDEPENDENCE While solar energy alone may not take businesses entirely off the Grid, combining it with storage solutions can significantly increase energy independence. By integrating battery storage systems with solar panels, businesses can store excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours and use it during high-demand periods or at night. This reduces reliance on the wholesale energy market and helps avoid non-commodity charges,
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which are continually rising. The result is a more autonomous energy system that buffers businesses against market volatility and enhances energy security.
3. MEETING SUSTAINABILITY GOALS For companies committed to reducing their carbon footprint, rooftop solar energy is a zero-emission energy source, making it the top solution for achieving significant carbon reductions. Transitioning to solar energy can help firms
meet their sustainability targets, including 100% carbon neutrality, all while illustrating their commitment to a sustainable future. This shift towards green energy can be a decisive factor in achieving corporate sustainability benchmarks and demonstrating leadership in environmental stewardship.
4. SAVING MONEY ON ENERGY BILLS By investing in solar power, businesses can save up to 30% on their energy bills, and the savings can then be reinvested into other areas of the business. In addition, companies can lock in a portion of their energy costs for the long term, avoiding the unpredictability of energy prices and non- commodity charges. For instance, a Midlands-based firm with a 500kWp solar project (covering 2000m²) could save approximately £78,000 in the first year alone and reduce carbon emissions by 134 tonnes. Over a 25-year period, such a project could result in savings of around £2.5 million.
5. MEETING CUSTOMER AND SOCIETAL DEMANDS Today’s consumers expect businesses to operate sustainably and minimise their environmental impact. Adopting rooftop solar energy can help companies meet these expectations and reduce their Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions – lessening their carbon footprint and fostering greener supply chain practices. This shift is particularly important, as eco- conscious purchasing and procurement decisions are continuing to rise on both a consumer and corporate stakeholder level.
ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Autumn 2024
six of the key ways rooftop solar energy can help businesses decarbonise
Rooftop solar energy is a zero-emission energy source
6. FUTURE-PROOFING OPERATIONS Investing in rooftop solar energy is a strategic move with the future in mind. For property owners and landlords, solar provides an integrated sustainable energy solution that makes properties more attractive to tenants. It can also increase property value. Additionally, companies that generate their own
electricity are better positioned to manage future energy costs. Long-term energy contracts can provide financial stability and predictability, essential for strategic planning and investment.
WHY SHOULD BUSINESSES INVEST IN SOLAR NOW?
As businesses face increasing market pressures and environmental scrutiny, harnessing rooftop solar energy can not only provide a significant competitive advantage, but also ensure better preparedness for future legislation changes. Furthermore, it can help to reach sustainability targets. The new British government has already shown
a significant desire to invest in renewable energy, making it clear that greener energy practices are here to stay. So, for businesses looking for a smart investment in their future, it’s just a case of looking up.
Shawton Energy
https://shawtonenergy.co.uk/
www.essmag.co.uk
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