Solar systems

Clifford Huntley, Research and Development Director at Solspan, part of Kensington Systems, on the practical steps FMs can take to meet the solar revolution and contribute to a sustainable future

The goal of meeting a zero-carbon future is increasingly being embedded into organisations and facilities management professionals are in a key position to lead the charge.

As the custodians of a building’s carbon footprint, they are in the front line when it comes to energy efficiency, improved waste management and greener procurement practice all of which directly influence environmental performance. In their role of overseeing building operations, energy usage, and maintenance FMs play a pivotal role in reducing emissions, improving sustainability, and supporting broader net zero goals.

This increasingly requires FMs address the urgent need to decarbonise a range of buildings, from high-carbon industries – like manufacturing, to commercial offices to help reduce energy usage and lower costs.

By leveraging sustainable technologies and implementing strategic initiatives, FMs can drive substantial reductions in emissions as well as setting a benchmark for sustainability across other sectors. Within FM one of the key frameworks is the Sustainable Facilities Management Index (SFMI), which offers those working in FM a comprehensive tool which enables FMs to embed sustainability into their operations, which can be benchmarked against wider industry standards.

Through the framework, facilities managers can gain critical insights into key areas such as energy usage, waste management, and procurement policies. This helps FMs identify inefficiencies and develop precise, measurable strategies to mitigate environmental impact.

SOLAR REGULATIONS AND THE ‘SOLAR REVOLUTION’

Solar energy is part of the nation’s push toward meeting the net zero carbon emissions target by 2050 and is central to the government’s renewable energy strategy. The UK facilities management sector has a key opportunity in helping the Government meet its target of achieving 45-47 Gigawatt solar PV capacity by 2030. The issue is that unlike many European countries, the UK lacks any mandate which requires solar energy systems to be installed in buildings and car parks.

The EU is already ahead of the UK with the 2024 Energy Performance of Buildings Directive that aims to achieve a fully decarbonised building stock by 2050 and includes provision for solar installations for new buildings and retrofitting public buildings by 2026. France has gone further, requiring solar carports in car parks with more than 80 spaces.

In the UK the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero announced the Clean Power Action Plan 2030 at the end of 2024, which includes a roadmap highlighting the need to strengthen national grid infrastructure and introduce innovative opportunities like installing solar canopies in outdoor car parks to generate clean electricity and power electric vehicle (EV) charging points.

THE ROLE OF FM IN THE SOLAR REVOLUTION

Facilities managers can contribute to the transition to solar power by integrating solar infrastructure into their buildings which will help cut electricity costs, improve efficiency, and generate renewable energy which then reduces carbon.

Embracing solar energy is more than just compliance; it demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and positions the FM sector as a proactive leader in driving positive change. While challenges such as high initial costs and grid capacity limits persist, they can be addressed with effective incentives, strategic planning, and innovation.

Key practical strategies for FMs aiming to lead the sustainability agenda include:

• Conduct comprehensive energy audits: Identify inefficiencies and establish a baseline to measure progress. Audits reveal opportunities for improvements, from optimising heating and cooling to upgrading lighting, helping prioritise investments.
• Invest in solar infrastructure: Solar panels, carports, or canopies cut energy costs and carbon footprints while enhancing user experience, such as shaded parking with EV charging. Government incentives can help offset upfront costs for faster ROI.
• Collaborate with industry leaders: Partnering with solar experts helps overcome technical and financial challenges. These collaborations can optimise system design, streamline installations, and offer innovative financing models like power purchase agreements (PPAs).
• Leverage technology and data: Use energy management systems and IoT devices to monitor consumption in real-time, optimise operations, and reduce waste. Automation tools can further improve efficiency by managing lighting, HVAC, and other equipment.
• Engage stakeholders: Secure buy-in from building owners, tenants, and employees by communicating the benefits of solar adoption, such as cost savings and environmental impact. Early involvement fosters shared responsibility and smoother implementation.

As the UK accelerates its transition to a zero-carbon future, solar energy will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. While the country has yet to implement a solar mandate, proposed initiatives and government roadmaps indicate that change is on the horizon.

Facilities managers have a crucial role to play in this transformation. By investing in solar infrastructure and advocating for sustainability, FM professionals can drive operational efficiencies, reduce emissions, and position their organisations as leaders in the renewable energy movement. The solar revolution is an opportunity for the FM industry to not only meet the demands of a changing regulatory landscape but to lead the way in building a sustainable, energy-secure future.