As one of the most widely available, efficient and cost-effective ways of generating electricity, solar power is a highly sought after renewable energy source. So much so, that it has a huge impact on BREEAM for new build developments.

When looking to meet sustainability targets and achieve this certification, Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) contractors and building contractors often look to solar PV systems. We’re taking a closer look as to why it’s an ideal choice and how Noble Green Energy can help.

What is BREEAM?

The Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) is a science-based assessment and sustainability certification that assesses a building’s environmental, social and economic performance. It is widely recognised across the world and credits are awarded across 12 key categories:

Management
Water
Energy
Transport
Health & Wellbeing
Resources
Resilience
Land Use & Ecology
Pollution
Materials
Waste
Innovation

A project’s BREEAM rating is based on a weighted percentage score across assessment categories, with thresholds for Very Good (≥55%), Excellent (≥70%) and Outstanding (≥85%). Achieving a high rating, such as “Very Good” (55%+) or “Excellent” (70%+), is often required as part of planning or procurement for local authorities, public sector frameworks and commercial developers.

BREEAM isn’t mandated by law but is commonly required by clients and frameworks. For New Construction, certification reflects performance at the design/post-construction stage (it doesn’t ‘expire’ after three years). BREEAM In-Use certificates, by contrast, are typically valid for up to three years.

Where Does Solar PV Support BREEAM Credits?

Commercial solar PV solutions help achieve credits within the energy category (ENE) which specifically assesses how buildings reduce operational energy use and carbon emissions. Solar PV can materially improve ENE 01 outcomes (energy/carbon performance) and, when integrated with sub-metering and data logging, helps demonstrate compliance under ENE 02 (energy monitoring).

ENE 01 – Reduction of Energy Use & Carbon Emissions

Solar PV solutions have the greatest impact on ENE 01, where reductions in regulated CO₂ emissions are calculated. It is well-known that solar PV systems help to significantly lower operational emissions by converting sunlight into clean, renewable electricity that can then be used to power a building’s electrical systems.

By collaborating with solar panel specialists at the start of a project, M&E and building contractors can ensure the PV arrays are correctly sized and modelled. This maximises energy and carbon savings as well as the associated BREEAM credits.

Additionally, by reducing dependency on grid electricity and potentially selling excess energy back to the grid, businesses can reduce their energy bills on top of their energy consumption, increasing their profitability.

ENE 02 – Energy Monitoring

Monitoring and logging a solar PV system’s energy generation and performance contributes to BREEAM’s energy monitoring requirements. This is because they are assessing both compliance and long-term building management.

Most solutions currently include integrated monitoring and data logging and, with Noble Green Energy’s operation and maintenance packages, you will receive monthly reporting that details your system’s performance including kWh generated, kWh offset and carbon savings.

At Noble Green Energy, we help both M&E contractors and building contractors earn credits for these categories. We can help integrate solar PV into wider building services packages and install systems as part of new builds, extensions or refurbishments.

Solar PV Solutions for Commercial & Industrial Buildings

Not only do commercial solar PV solutions support BREEAM certification, but they also help to meet business sustainability goals, lower long-term operating costs and reduce their carbon footprint. Even though BREEAM is not a legal requirement, it is a well-recognised credential and solar panels can help achieve a high rating for your next building project.

Get in touch with Noble Green Energy today to discuss your requirements for a tailored commercial solar PV solution.

Published

October 27, 2025