The UK’s solar and battery storage sectors could generate up to £5.1 billion annually by 2035, according to a new report highlighting the crucial role of technology in expanding renewable energy use across the built environment. The forecast depends on supportive government policies and reflects broader shifts towards decentralised energy systems and sustainable construction practices. Integrating renewable solutions into urban infrastructure aligns with net zero carbon goals and broader Whole Life Carbon reduction strategies in construction.
In Scotland, Procurement for Housing has named 38 contractors to a £380 million framework for housing maintenance over four years. Many of the selected firms are regional SMEs, promoting local supply chains and green construction practices. The programme aims to enhance housing stock through energy-efficient building upgrades and aligns with sustainable building practices. Improvements under this framework will contribute to low carbon building targets through Life Cycle Cost improvements.
The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products is supporting the SHELTER research project, led by the University of York, which examines barriers to offsite construction using biogenic materials in UK homes. The study targets increased use of natural fibre insulation and timber, contributing to Circular Economy strategies and reducing Embodied Carbon in housing. Emphasising the environmental impact of construction and applying a Whole Life Carbon Assessment approach may help mainstream these low-impact options into future projects.
Developers have withdrawn plans for the Cumbrian coal mine, which would have been the UK’s first deep coal development in 30 years. Campaigners see the cancellation as a step towards carbon neutral construction and a reduced reliance on carbon-intensive infrastructure. The project’s cancellation signals potential for redirecting investment toward eco-friendly construction and renewable building materials, supporting long-term sustainability commitments within the construction industry.
Water scarcity is prompting urgent developments in infrastructure. In Monmouthshire, emergency supplies for the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal cost up to £100,000 weekly, raising concerns over long-term resilience and Life Cycle Cost of water infrastructure. In Punjab, authorities have banned new car wash stations in response to drought conditions. These moves highlight the importance of lifecycle assessment in resource planning to support environmental sustainability in construction.
Concerns are growing over wake effects from offshore wind farms, where turbine turbulence impacts energy generation at neighbouring sites. This issue has implications for sustainable urban development and the planning of renewable infrastructure near built-up areas. Coastal planning must now account for siting strategies to maximise clean energy output and align with sustainable design principles while supporting energy-efficient buildings.
