From energy procurement to operational upgrades, occupiers have the ability to drive decarbonisation from within. However, doing so requires a reframing of their role, not just as users of space, but as strategic partners in how that space is powered, financed and managed.
Selecting spaces with innovative energy infrastructure
Energy demand across commercial buildings is rising fast. Offices are increasingly electrified, data centres are power-hungry, and retail spaces are adopting smart technologies and EV infrastructure. As grid constraints and energy costs intensify, occupiers are turning to decentralised, site-specific solutions to take control of their energy future.
When selecting new space, whether for offices, industrial or retail, occupiers are continuing to look beyond location and layout. Energy infrastructure is becoming a strategic differentiator, and choosing buildings with advanced systems can significantly reduce operational emissions and long-term costs. So, what should occupiers be looking for?
- On-site renewable generation, such as rooftop solar PV, is a key feature to look for. Buildings with existing solar installations or the infrastructure to support them offer occupiers a direct path to clean energy. This is especially valuable for tenants with long-term leases or sustainability targets tied to Scope 2 emissions.
- Battery energy storage systems are another important asset. These allow buildings to store surplus energy – often from solar – and use it during peak demand or outages. Occupiers benefit from greater energy resilience and reduced reliance on the grid, particularly in areas with volatile energy pricing.
- Microgrids offer a more integrated solution. These self-contained systems generate and distribute energy locally, often across multiple buildings or tenants. For occupiers in campuses or multi-unit developments, microgrids provide a reliable and flexible energy source that can operate independently or alongside the national grid.
- Private wire networks are larger-scale systems that deliver electricity directly from a nearby renewable source – such as a solar farm or wind turbine or nearby building – to a specific building or group of buildings. These networks bypass the grid entirely, reducing transmission losses and avoiding connection delays. Occupiers should consider sites with access to private wire infrastructure, especially if energy security and sustainability are top priorities.
- Hybrid energy systems, which combine gas, electricity, and renewables, are also worth evaluating. These systems offer flexibility and backup during peak demand, making them ideal for occupiers with critical operations or variable energy loads.
Ultimately, selecting a space with innovative energy infrastructure isn’t just about sustainability – it’s about future-proofing operations. Occupiers who prioritise energy performance in their real estate decisions will be better positioned to meet regulatory requirements, manage costs, and demonstrate leadership in the transition to net zero.
Decarbonisation isn’t just about technology, it’s about leadership. And increasingly, that leadership is coming from occupiers. Whether in office towers, retail centres, or logistics hubs, tenants are stepping up to shape how their buildings perform, how energy is sourced, and how sustainability is financed.
Occupiers are uniquely positioned to drive change. They understand their operational needs, they control day-to-day energy use, and they’re often the ones held accountable for ESG performance. However, occupiers and landlords are able to accomplish even more when they take shared action towards decarbonising. If they can work closely together to finance and operate sustainable energy strategies, both parties stand to benefit.
Shared Investment Models
Tenants can co-invest with landlords in sustainability upgrades such as solar panels, battery systems, or energy-efficient HVAC. While these models are only starting to emerge, they could provide a foundation for both occupiers and landlords to see a significant return on investment. These models will both allow occupiers to shape the scope of improvements and ensure that upgrades align with their operational goals and ESG commitments. At the same time, landlords will see long-term improvements to their assets.
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
Occupiers can negotiate long-term contracts to purchase renewable energy at fixed rates, either from on-site generation or external providers. PPAs offer price stability, reduce Scope 2 emissions, and support the broader transition to clean energy. They’re particularly effective for tenants with high energy consumption or long-term occupancy.
Joint Ownership of On-Site Renewables
Occupiers can partner with landlords or third parties to co-own renewable infrastructure. This approach spreads costs and benefits and gives tenants a direct stake in the energy they consume. In some cases, shared ownership can extend to local communities, enhancing social impact and stakeholder engagement.
The road to net zero is collaborative, but it starts with initiative. By reframing their role, occupiers can move from passive users to active drivers of change.
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