Clean Power 2030 Action Plan: The Future of UK’s Renewable Energy
The Clean Power 2030 Action Plan is shaping the UK’s journey towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy and renewable future. This ambitious initiative focuses on reducing reliance on fossil fuels, expanding renewable energy capacity, and enhancing energy security.
One key aspect of this transition is ensuring that commercial properties comply with evolving Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations. With stricter energy efficiency standards, businesses must register their properties on the EPC register and work towards compliance.
This blog post highlights the key improvements outlined in the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan. The report provides valuable insights into how the country plans to achieve net zero.
Key Targets of the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan
The Clean Power 2030 Action Plan has established a series of targets, the three most important being:
- Significant Expansion of Renewable Energy Capacity: Increasing wind, solar, and battery storage infrastructure.
- Significant Reduction in Fossil Fuel Dependency: Transitioning towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
- Investment of £40 Billion Per Year: Allocating substantial financial resources between 2025 and 2030 to drive clean energy projects.
These measures aim to position the UK as a leader in clean energy while supporting businesses in meeting energy efficiency standards, including Commercial EPC compliance. You can read the full Government report here: Clean Power 2030: Action Plan: A new era of clean electricity
Great British Energy is a planned British government-owned renewable energy investment body that forms part of the Labour Party’s energy policy plans. The proposed body plans to invest in renewable energy and own, manage, and operate clean power projects. It would work alongside private firms on wind, solar, and emerging technologies like carbon capture and hydrogen.
Lowering the UK’s electricity carbon footprint is essential for net-zero goals. The plan is to cut emissions from 171gCO₂e/kWh in 2023 to below 50gCO₂e/kWh, aligning with Climate Change Committee targets. This shift will improve air quality, boost energy security, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Warehouse Solar
Warehouse rooftops throughout the UK have huge potential for rooftop solar. The largest 20% alone could provide 75 million m² of solar space, potentially supporting 15 GW of capacity. Government incentives are expected to encourage businesses to adopt solar power.
Nuclear Power – Hinkley Point C
Hinkley Point C, the UK’s first new nuclear plant in 30+ years, will provide stable, low-carbon electricity. As a reliable baseload source, it ensures grid stability alongside renewables. Once operational, it will:
- Power ~6 million homes
- Supply ~7% of UK electricity
- Support the UK’s low-carbon transition
- Source: Hinkley Point C | EDF
Commercial EPC and Its Importance
A Commercial EPC is a mandatory certification that assesses the energy efficiency of non-residential properties. The UK government has introduced increasingly stringent EPC regulations to encourage businesses to lower carbon emissions. Key points include:
- Minimum EPC Rating Requirements: From April 2023, all commercial properties must have a minimum E rating to be legally let. This requirement is expected to rise to C by 2027 and B by 2030.
- Impact on Businesses: Properties failing to meet these standards will be deemed unlettable, significantly affecting landlords and investors.
- Registering on the EPC Register: Property owners must ensure their Commercial EPC is updated and registered on the official EPC register to comply with regulations and avoid penalties.
- Improving energy efficiency not only ensures legal compliance but also reduces operational costs and enhances property value. Accreditation with Elmhurst Energy
The Role of Renewable Energy in Achieving EPC Compliance
To meet the new Commercial EPC requirements, businesses must adopt energy-efficient solutions. The Clean Power 2030 Action Plan provides several opportunities:
- Solar Panel Installations: Warehouses and industrial properties can utilise rooftop solar energy to improve efficiency ratings.
- Battery Storage Expansion: Storing excess renewable energy for later use can help commercial properties maintain consistent power.
- Upgrading HVAC Systems: Modern heating and cooling systems can significantly reduce energy consumption.
- LED Lighting and Smart Technologies: Integrating energy-efficient lighting and automation improves building performance.
- Commercial landlords can future-proof their assets by implementing these solutions and secure higher EPC register ratings.
Future-Proofing Commercial Properties
As the UK advances towards a net-zero economy, businesses must prioritise Commercial EPC compliance. The Clean Power 2030 Action Plan provides a clear roadmap, investing in renewables and reducing carbon intensity to meet stringent energy efficiency standards.
Property owners should take proactive steps to improve their EPC ratings, ensure compliance with the EPC register, and benefit from the long-term cost savings associated with energy-efficient buildings. By embracing sustainable energy solutions, the UK’s commercial sector will play a crucial role in achieving net-zero goals while maintaining a competitive edge in the evolving property market.
Stay ahead of the changes—register your commercial property on the EPC register today and secure a greener, more sustainable future for your business.