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INSIGHTS

Solar Solutions

Cushman & Wakefield’s study explores rooftop solar potential in UK logistics, key adoption drivers, barriers, financial returns, and policy solutions.

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OVERVIEW

Solar Solutions is Cushman & Wakefield’s in-depth research into the attitudes of UK Logistics & Industrial real estate stakeholders regarding the installation and operation of roof-mounted Solar PV systems. This unique study quantifies the vast, untapped potential of rooftop solar across the UK’s L&I property stock and explores the diverse motivations driving solar adoption. It also identifies the key barriers to implementation, including grid connectivity issues, high upfront costs, retrofitting limitations, and legal or operational complexities that hinder widespread deployment.

The research further evaluates the financial viability of Solar PV, modelling returns across various building sizes and occupier energy profiles and examines how solar energy is being monetised. It benchmarks current industry practices and outlines Cushman & Wakefield’s three key policy recommendations to accelerate adoption. Drawing on primary market research data, this report offers a comprehensive and actionable perspective on the future of solar energy in the UK’s logistics and industrial sectors.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • There is vast untapped potential in Industrial roof space - The UK logistics sector has over 1 billion sq ft of usable roof space, capable of generating up to 36,486 GWh annually through solar PV - potentially contributing £3 billion to the UK economy.
  • Solar PV adoption is growing but inconsistent - While 67% of survey respondents have adopted or are installing solar PV, only 15% have done so across more than half of their portfolios.
  • Grid Connectivity and Costs are Major Barriers - Grid access and high upfront costs are the top challenges cited in our survey, with 85% of grid connection applications currently failing.
  • Bigger, Energy-Intensive Buildings Yield Better Returns - Larger buildings with high energy use can achieve up to 18% IRR and a 5.5-year payback, making them ideal for solar investment.
  • Policy and Industry action is needed to accelerate growth - Clearer incentives, improved grid infrastructure, and mandated solar-ready designs for new builds are key to scaling adoption.

WATCH VIDEO

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An introduction to Solar Solutions

Watch Edward Bavister, Head of UK Logistics & Industrial research, highlight the key themes emerging from our Solar Solutions market survey and analysis.

WHY SOLAR SOLUTIONS MATTERS

Whether you're planning new developments or managing existing assets, this report offers actionable guidance to future-proof your real estate strategy. It outlines monetisation models, identifies key barriers such as grid connectivity and retrofitting challenges, and benchmarks best practices from leading occupiers. With policy recommendations and design considerations for solar-ready buildings, Solar Solutions equips you with the insights needed to make informed, sustainable investment decisions.

FAQS

There is over 1 billion sq ft of usable rooftop space on buildings over 50,000 sq ft, with the potential to generate up to 36,486 GWh annually, equivalent to approximately £3 billion in economic value.

Key drivers include decarbonising operations, meeting ESG targets, reducing energy costs, improving building marketability, and complying with planning and environmental regulations.

The top barriers include grid connectivity issues, high upfront costs, retrofitting limitations, legal complexities, and a lack of expertise or guidance on where to start.

Over 82% of survey respondents agree that Solar PV is critical to decarbonising supply chains, offering substantial carbon offset potential, up to 7.5 million tonnes annually when fully scaled.

While challenges remain, the sector is poised for growth. Standardising best practices, improving education, and aligning policy with market needs will be key to unlocking its full potential.

CONTACTS

Richard Evans (London, UK)
Richard Evans

International Partner
London, United Kingdom

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Patrick Gifford

Solar Engineer
London, United Kingdom

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ed bavister
Edward Bavister

Associate, Head of Retail, Logistics and Industrial Research
London, United Kingdom

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