DESNZ Solar Carport Initiative: A Bright Future for Clean Parking

The UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has launched a Call for Evidence to boost the number of solar-powered carports in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

This could lead to a mandate for solar PV installations on car parks, following the example set by France. The move supports the UK’s Clean Power 2030 (CP30) goals – and could deliver major benefits for motorists, businesses, and the planet.

What Are Solar Carports?

Solar carports are robust overhead structures fitted with solar panels. They transform everyday parking spaces into clean energy hubs – providing shade, weather protection, and electricity all in one.

From homes to retail parks and commercial offices, these dual-purpose solutions are gaining popularity across the UK.

Why Solar Carports Make Sense

1. Make Use of Space You Already Have

Solar carports can be installed anywhere there’s open parking – no roof required. Perfect for:

• Business car parks
• Shopping centres
• Schools and universities
• Residential driveways

No need to modify buildings or worry about roof shape, size, or strength.

2. Generate Clean Energy On-Site

Harness the sun to power:

• EV chargers
• Lighting and security systems
• Buildings
• Or export excess energy to the grid

Lower your electricity bills while cutting carbon emissions.

3. Add Energy Storage (Now or Later)

Battery systems can be:

• Integrated at installation, or
• Retrofitted to existing sites

Common applications include:

• Backup power during outages
• Storing summer solar for winter use
• Avoiding expensive peak demand charges
• Using cheaper off-peak energy during high-tariff periods

4. Charge EVs the Smart Way

As electric vehicle adoption grows, solar carports offer a seamless way to power EV charging with on-site generation.

Ideal for:

• Residential users
• Commercial fleets
• Public parking sites

5. Future-Proof with DC Microgrids

Schneider Electric’s DC Systems Grenoble site demonstrates the power of DC microgrids. Their solar-powered system:

• Runs entirely on direct current
• Reduces energy loss with fewer conversion steps
• Integrates solar, batteries, and EV charging in one smart containerised unit

This kind of system represents the future of efficient localised energy networks.

6. Weather Protection and Visual Appeal

Solar carports shield vehicles from:

• Sun
• Rain
• Snow and hail

They also enhance site value by:

• Improving aesthetics
• Supporting green branding
• Increasing comfort and usability for visitors and staff

7. Strong ROI and Financial Incentives

While solar carports have higher upfront costs than rooftop systems, they offer:

• Strong long-term returns
• Access to grants, feed-in tariffs, and tax incentives
• Enhanced corporate social responsibility (CSR) credentials
• Greater energy resilience

Looking Ahead

Solar carports are more than infrastructure – they’re a practical and powerful investment in the UK’s clean energy future.

We fully support the DESNZ initiative and look forward to helping customers transform parking spaces into renewable power assets.