The demand for renewables, such as solar PV, looks set to consistently increase, creating huge opportunities for capable roofing contractors. So says Kevin Taylor, Training & Technical Support Manager at Marley.
Rise of renewables
Kevin says, “The renewables industry is currently booming, driven by a number of key factors. Firstly, the climate crisis is fast reaching a critical point, with governments around the world taking action to try and reduce its effects – such as the UK’s net zero greenhouse gas emission target, of which, the changes to Part L of the building regulations that covers both new construction and some refurbishment work for dwellings and other buildings in England forms a significant part. Secondly, this will naturally lead to a reduction in the use of fossil fuels, such as coal, gas and oil, but in any case, the prices of these resources are soaring.
“Working to avoid the worst that climate change may bring, as well as the desire for us to become more self-sufficient in how we produce our power means that the demand for alternative energy, that is both clean and more affordable, has never been so strong.
Demand for installers
“In addition, the recent Spring Budget detailed further support and investment in renewable and sustainable industries. Whilst this is a positive step, it further highlights the need for skilled contractors who are able to facilitate the changes that are required. At the moment, demand for installers is outstripping supply.
“Put simply, there are not currently enough roofing contractors that are equipped to fit integrated solar PV systems. Moreover, some that are qualified are finding that electrical contractors are taking control of a job – and using the roofer as a sub-contractor – meaning the roofer loses a large proportion of their margins.
“However, this is an avoidable situation. Those roofing contractors who have upskilled their workforce to fit integrated solar PV are already seeing huge benefits with completely full schedules for lucrative roofing and solar PV installation work. In fact, some roofers can no longer accept any new job enquiries, such is the volume of work they’re having to deal with.
There’s no better time to train for solar PV
“With demand for all renewable technologies set only to rise, the need for roofing contractors to fit solar PV will also increase. Roofing contractors who are willing to invest in the qualifications required to fit solar PV will benefit most from the move to green technologies.
“There is support for roofers from manufacturers such as Marley – whose Marley SolarTile integrated solar panel provides an innovative, reliable and sustainable solar energy system – in terms of training and advice.
“In addition, for roofing contractors purchasing the full Marley SolarTile system, Marley is offering invaluable on-site training (for the first installation) to ensure customers maximise the opportunity presented by solar energy. Upon purchase, simply contact us to organise a date for one of our team to assist with your first on-site installation.
“At Marley, we want our customers to be prepared for the far-reaching effects of Part L. Of course, with change, there are potential threats to a roofing contractor’s business, however, there are also great opportunities provided they take full advantage of the wide range of resources and innovative new products that are out there to help and support them.
Change, sustain and gain
“We are moving from a fossil fuel economy to a green economy that will require a complete change to our infrastructure. How we create, distribute, use and conserve our energy will change. It is a huge task and we are only at the start of it. Solar PV will be form a large part of that future and is a great opportunity for roofing contractors – make sure you’re part of it.”
For further details on Marley’s full roof system, including SolarTile please click here.
