As factories across the UK and Europe face rising energy costs and increasing pressure to cut carbon emissions, many are turning to building upgrades and retrofit to improve performance.
But not all retrofit work is created equal. Poorly planned or poorly executed improvements can waste money, deliver disappointing results, or even increase energy use.
This is where PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 come in – two closely linked standards that create a structured, reliable, and quality-driven framework for retrofit projects. These standards aren’t just for homes; they’re increasingly being used by industrial and commercial sites seeking trustworthy retrofit pathways.
What PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 Do
PAS 2030: sets out the installation requirements for energy efficiency measures.
PAS 2035: covers the whole-building approach to assessing, evaluating, and designing retrofit solutions.
Together, they ensure:
1. Proper assessment before any work begins
2. Correct specification of materials
3. Competent installation processes
4. Robust quality control
5. Post-installation monitoring
For factories, this ensures retrofits are not only compliant but also effective, delivering measurable energy reductions.
Why This Matters for Factories
Industrial buildings are often older, draughtier, and far less insulated than modern structures.
Many rely on outdated heating systems, inefficient lighting, or ageing mechanical equipment.
PAS 2030 / 2035 frameworks help factories identify and prioritise improvements such as:
1. Upgrading insulation
2. Replacing or improving HVAC systems
3. Installing efficient lighting
4. Enhancing ventilation systems
5. Minimising air leakage
6. Addressing building envelope weaknesses
These improvements collectively reduce wasted energy and lower thermal losses – often by 20 to 40% – translating directly into lower operating costs.
Improved Quality and Reduced Risk
One of the biggest advantages of PAS 2030 / 2035 is quality assurance.
Factories that use certified installers and assessors reduce the risk of:
1. Poor workmanship
2. Incorrect sizing of equipment
3. Damp or mould caused by bad retrofits
4. Wasted investment due to inadequate design
This makes energy upgrades more reliable and gives factory owners confidence that the improvements will perform as expected.
Where Retrofit Rooftop Solar Fits In
Although PAS 2030/2035 primarily focus on building fabric and mechanical upgrades, they naturally support the integration of rooftop solar.
Once a building’s thermal and operational efficiency is improved, solar generation becomes even more effective.
Solar contributes to retrofit outcomes by:
1. Reducing electricity demand from the grid
2. Supporting carbon reduction strategies
3. Improving building performance ratings
4. Delivering immediate financial benefits
5. Reinforcing a culture of sustainability
With cash positive finance or rental, factories can add solar with no upfront investment, creating a retrofit pathway where operational savings start from day one.
The Takeaway
PAS 2030 and PAS 2035 provide factories with a proven, quality led approach to building retrofits.
When combined with rooftop solar, they create a step-by-step modernisation strategy that reduces energy costs, improves comfort and performance, and protects long term value.
Retrofit the building. Install solar on the roof. And watch your factory become cleaner, greener, and more profitable.
