Powering the future: decarbonisation through public sector electricity generation

This piece was originally published in Energy Manager Magazine, October 2025

Author: Davide Natuzzi, assistant director, energy, carbon and technical, Salix

As the UK accelerates its journey toward net zero by 2050, decarbonisation of the public sector has emerged as a critical frontier. 

Central to this transformation is the generation of clean electricity within public buildings. This offers an approach that not only reduces carbon emissions but also enhances energy resilience and financial sustainability for decarbonisation solutions applied in public buildings which require substantial power usage to operate. 

Electricity generation is a foundation of decarbonisation. By shifting away from fossil fuels and embracing renewable technologies, public sector organisations can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. 

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems offer a proven and scalable solution. In short, these systems connect the sun’s energy to produce electricity, eliminating greenhouse gas emissions and reducing reliance on the grid.

Public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, libraries, and council office, are uniquely positioned to lead this transition. With large roof spaces and consistent energy demand, they are ideal candidates for solar PV installations. 

The benefits can be many sided: reduced energy bills, improved energy security, and enhanced environmental credentials. Moreover, these installations often serve as visible best practice and examples of sustainability, inspiring communities and stakeholders alike.

Through my work at Salix, I see first hand how the benefits of clean energy are impacting communities. 

However, the journey is not without risks. Fluctuating energy prices, evolving policy frameworks, and technical challenges can complicate implementation. Additionally, without robust energy management systems, the full potential of on-site generation may not be realised. 

Effective design, project verification, measurement and verification strategies, monitoring, control, and optimisation are essential to ensure that systems operate efficiently and deliver expected savings.

Recognising these challenges, Salix has played a pivotal role in supporting public sector organisations. 

Through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), we have enabled hundreds of projects across England to install solar PV systems. Since the scheme’s launch in 2020, more than £277 million has been invested in 562 solar PV projects, resulting in 188,681,638 kWh of annual energy savings and £30 million in financial savings. [Salix’s website Reference Big boost for solar PV as we’re making more energy from the sun]

One standout example is Oxford City Council, which used Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding to invest in a not-for-profit solar farm connected to the grid. This initiative not only powers council buildings but also delivers long-term community benefits. 

Similarly, Cambridgeshire County Council installed solar PV across six schools with funding totalling £186,655, demonstrating how local authorities can lead by example.

We’re proud to support these projects, the organisations and the inspirational people behind them throughout the net zero journey.

Beyond solar PV, several other carbon-saving technologies are being deployed in public buildings to generate clean power:

• Geothermal energy systems, which use underground heat for electricity and heating.
• Wind turbines, particularly in rural or coastal public sites.
• Biomass boilers, converting organic waste into usable energy.
• Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), where solar panels are embedded into the building’s structure.
• Hydrogen fuel cells, offering zero-emission power for larger facilities.
• Smart energy storage systems, which store excess renewable energy for later use.

Examples of these technologies in development are at the University of York where a major geothermal solution is being developed with the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding and the hydrogen application which is being studied at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

To maximise the impact of these investments, energy generation must be integrated with intelligent energy management systems. These systems enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making. Without them, organisations risk underperformance and missed savings opportunities.

Looking ahead, the need for strategic, well-managed power generation in public buildings is more urgent than ever. At Salix, we remain committed to supporting this transition, working closely with public sector teams and housing to identify opportunities, assess feasibility, and deliver impactful projects.

In conclusion, power generation in public buildings is not just a technical upgrade but it’s a strategic imperative. With the right funding, technology, and management, the public sector can lead the UK’s decarbonisation journey, one rooftop at a time.