HOW TO POWER BUILDINGS FOR NET-ZERO FUTURE

PUT YOUR BUILDING ON TRACK FOR A NET-ZERO FUTURE

So electrification is essentially another way of saying “removing fossil fuels” starting with on-site activities and ultimately leading towards renewable electricity. As climate-related financial disclosures and emissions reporting obligations gain traction globally, new regulations are increasing risk exposure across real estate portfolios. At the same time, internal reduction targets and tenant expectations are reshaping asset strategies. Asset managers and facility teams must act early to assess exposure and plan for capital works that align with emerging compliance pathways and performance requirements. Electrification is central to this shift. It directly links to building performance fundamentals, including energy data integrity, load reduction, renewable energy integration, and long-term emissions control. Owners who understand these interdependencies can phase upgrades strategically—based on asset condition, timing of risk, and value potential—rather than responding reactively to regulation or failure. As a real estate advisor, Cushman & Wakefield plays a pivotal role in supporting owners and occupiers throughout the electrification journey. This guide provides a structured, practical roadmap that clarifies key phases, decision points, and stakeholder roles, helping you move from strategy to delivery with confidence.

Electrification is no longer a future consideration—it is a current planning priority.

To achieve net-zero operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, properties must decarbonize, or reduce the GHG emissions associated with operations. Electrification is an important component of a planned pathway to achieve net-zero emissions. Electrification alone does not result in a net-zero building, as consideration needs to be given to the emissions associated with the electricity grid. Having an electric building; however does enable a transition to renewable electricity sources. In simple terms, electrification involves removing fossil fuels, such as natural gas or diesel, from use in a building, and replacing them with electrically-powered equipment. Why? Fossil fuels are not compatible with future-ready buildings, based on evolving building codes, green building certifications, regulations, and macro-level shifts to phase out fossil fuel use. Having an all-electric building also enables a transition to renewable electricity sources, such as on- or off-site solar. Removing gas and other fossil fuels from on-site operations is critical, as there is no large-scale solution for renewable gas or renewable diesel— these alternatives simply do not exist—but renewable electricity can fill the gap.