Solar Panels and commercial buildings: A win for both tenants and landlords
Does your business have high energy costs but you are renting a commercial property? Or are you a landlord with existing tenants looking to make your site more sustainable? Having tenants or being a tenant doesn’t mean that you both can’t benefit from installing a Solar PV system.
Many tenants and landlords believe the installation of solar panels while the property is rented/occupied is too complex or unfeasible. However, with energy prices high and continuing uncertainty in the global energy market, producing renewable energy on commercial buildings has become increasingly attractive. Projects are now common on leased properties with agreements between tenants and landlords simplified and standardised, therefore tenants and landlords should not be put off.
According to the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA), “there is more than 424 million square feet of warehousing space on premises spanning over 100,000 sq ft” If all commercial properties were to utilise their roof space with Solar PV, the UK would see a huge boost towards its pledge to have Net Zero emissions by 2050. Whilst this alone is a good incentive, there are many other incentives which directly benefit both commercial renters and landlords when installing a Solar PV system.
Why investing in a Solar PV system makes commercial sense:
- Reduced energy costs – With significantly increased energy prices, tenants with high energy usage can expect reductions on their energy bills. Reduced dependency on the Grid can help to futureproof your business against a fluctuating market and rising costs.
- Improved sustainability and net green credentials – Solar PV provides a clean, green energy source which will reduce your carbon emissions and help demonstrate your commitment to the environment and meeting your sustainability and CSR goals.
- Increased value and improved marketability – By installing Solar PV your roof space becomes a financial asset. Your property becomes more attractive to existing and future tenants or when renegotiating, providing the property with a competitive advantage over similar properties without it.
- Government incentives and finance options available – Both government incentives and finance options are available to encourage businesses to invest in renewable energy. From grants and finance purchasing packages to generating income on excess supply. A new government grants is now available to farmers and growers.
- Low risk investment – Fast return on investment with predicable long-term returns. Generate additional income with government backed Feed-in Tariffs for generating and exporting green energy.
BCR have worked with both commercial tenants and landlords and are familiar with the complexities both face in installing Solar PV on a rented premises. If you are a tenant or landlord looking to invest in Solar PV, we work with all stakeholders and can help navigate these difficulties.
We are here to help, for advice on Solar PV and installation, please contact us on 03330 433 233