Region launches bid to lead UK’s solar rooftop revolution
Freeport East has launched a From the Rooftops campaign to position the region at the forefront of the drive. It points to its growing logistics, warehousing and commercial sector - and high solar radiance levels in Ipswich, Stowmarket, Felixstowe and the wider Freeport East area. SIGN UP HERE FOR YOUR DAILY BUSINESS BULLETIN[1]
Just eight of the largest industrial developments in the region are capable of supporting up to 100MW of solar power, it says. It suggests that means 1GW could be possible across all of Suffolk - making a significant contribution to renewable energy production in the East of England. Freeport East has already attracted investments from companies active in the industry such as Bauder and Assan Panel.
It sees an opportunity to attract international inward investment by stepping up rooftop solar deployment in the county's commercial and industrial sector. It is supporting schemes through its Clean Growth Fund. Freeport East chief executive Steve Beel said they wanted the region to "set an example to the rest of the UK" and encourage more people to invest the the UK's solar transition.
"Our 'From the Rooftops campaign' is really about unlocking what's already here in East Anglia - lots of underutilised rooftop space, beneficial solar conditions and a strong appetite for clean energy," he said. "Our campaign will introduce perspectives from a range of different industry participants to put better information in the hands of decision-makers, employees and consumers to push for more rooftop solar in the business sector." Freeport East is encouraging local businesses, property owners and investors to back rooftop solar.
Ipswich MP Jack Abbott said: "Pushing forward more rooftop solar in the commercial and industrial market is a no-brainer. "It will help deliver lower costs for businesses, make our energy system more resilient and reinforce the East of England's reputation as a leader on sustainability and clean energy." 
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