Net Zero for Business: How Solar Meets ESG Goals
With net zero commitments becoming essential for business competitiveness, solar provides measurable carbon reduction and ESG credentials.
Solar as a Net Zero Foundation
With the UK committed to net zero by 2050 and businesses facing increasing pressure from investors, customers, and regulations, commercial solar provides a foundation for sustainability strategy. It delivers measurable, verifiable carbon reduction.
Carbon Reduction Calculations
Each kWh of solar generation avoids approximately 0.233kg CO2. For typical systems:
| System Size | Annual Generation | CO2 Avoided |
|---|---|---|
| 50kW | 42,500 kWh | 9.9 tonnes/year |
| 100kW | 85,000 kWh | 19.8 tonnes/year |
| 250kW | 212,500 kWh | 49.5 tonnes/year |
ESG Reporting Benefits
Solar installation strengthens ESG reporting across all three pillars:
- Environmental: Direct carbon reduction, renewable energy use
- Social: Energy security, employee engagement, community benefit
- Governance: Climate risk management, regulatory compliance
Stakeholder Expectations
Different stakeholders increasingly demand sustainability action:
- Investors: ESG metrics influence investment decisions
- Customers: Procurement requirements include sustainability
- Employees: Talent attracted to sustainable employers
- Regulators: Mandatory climate disclosures expanding
Science Based Targets
Solar helps businesses set and achieve Science Based Targets (SBTi). On-site renewable generation directly reduces Scope 2 emissions, a key component of most corporate carbon footprints.