Getting to Net Zero – What benefits can decentralised solutions bring?

Last week we hosted the REA’s Decentralised Energy Conference, where there were some thought-provoking discussions about unlocking the potential for behind-the-meter solutions, challenges for electrification of fleet and role out of energy storage and decarbonisation of heat.

Some of the key points for those seeking to utilise the benefits that decentralised solutions can bring:

• Unlocking capacity:  Behind the mater solutions can open up capacity that is difficult to obtain given current grid constraints, as well as providing energy security, price certainty and a reduced price in comparison to importing electricity from the grid. This can allow innovation on site, including EV charging and energy storage solutions. 
• Knowledge is key:  Understanding how you utilise energy in your building/site is essential.  Make sure you have accurate metering/usage data as this will inform how best to optimise use.
• Integration: Integration across energy generation, storage and usage on site (building controls, air source heat pumps, fleet EV charging, etc) will provide the optimum outcome.  Good communication between energy procurement, building operations and fleet management teams allows a joined-up approach which will deliver the best outcome.
• Regulatory compliance:  If you are implementing any behind the meter solution which includes generation, supply or distribution of electricity, you will need to ensure that you are in compliance with electricity licensing regulations.
• In-house or outsource:  This is a key question for any building/site owners/developer and should be considered early on.  This is not ‘core business’ for many organisations and ensuring integration in a way that impacts positively on your key business objectives can mean that specialist knowledge is required.

Our recent report ‘Ensuring energy resilience for industrial and logistics’ explores how the industrial and logistics sector manages energy resilience, while meeting the demands of occupiers and Net Zero targets. We interviewed a cross-section of industry experts to better understand their challenges and solutions and consider the options for implementing onsite energy generation.

Our energy team regularly advises on on-site, private wire and micro-grid arrangements.  If you have any questions, please do get in touch.