Renewable energy assets should be a focus in real estate development plans, according to a new report from the Urban Land Institute (ULI).
Renewable Energy Strategies for Real Estate is the latest report from ULI’s Greenprint Center for Building Performance. As momentum builds for decarbonizing the built environment, the report provides a comprehensive framework for implementing renewable energy both on- and off-site. By prioritizing renewable energy in their projects, real estate organizations can reduce their carbon footprint and add value for buildings, tenants, investors, and communities.
“Renewable energy is the fastest-growing power source for buildings globally but still accounts for less than 15% of the total energy used by buildings,” said Billy Grayson, Executive Vice President of Centers and Initiatives at ULI. “Between rising prices for fossil fuels, the declining cost of renewables, and more government incentives for emissions reduction, the business case for pursuing renewable energy in real estate has never been stronger.”
Four Key Recommendations
The report is informed by the views of ULI scholars, real estate leaders, and experts in green energy. It identifies four key recommendations for real estate practitioners interested in renewable energy:
- Create tailored approaches: The best strategy for implementing renewables varies by organization, building, and situation – and is informed by an entity’s goals, financials, and priorities.
- Plan ahead: As demand for renewable energy increases, real estate organizations can begin exploring renewable energy opportunities now in order to gain experience and build relationships with service providers who can help them succeed.
- Involve experts: On- and off-site renewable energy deal structures are numerous, complicated, and best supported by expert external stakeholders.
- Maximize energy efficiency first: There are a number of steps on the pathway toward net-zero emissions, including renewable energy, but energy efficiency is often the highest impact investment.
The full Renewable Energy Strategies for Real Estate report is available on ULI’s Knowledge Finder platform.
