Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whether he is taking steps to encourage high street property portfolio holders to invest in (a) retrofitting their premises to conserve energy and (b) solar and other renewable microgeneration.

As of 2018 landlords of commercial rented properties in England or Wales must ensure that their properties reach at least an Energy Performance Certificate rating of E, are cost-effective, before granting a new tenancy to new or existing tenants. From 1 April 2023 the regulations will apply even where there has been no change in tenancy.

Furthermore, Government is supporting commercial rooftop solar installation through providing tax-relief to businesses installing solar panels until March 2023 and business rates exemptions for onsite-renewable generation until March 2035.

The Smart Export Guarantee also enables small-scale electricity generators to receive payment for renewable electricity they export.