17 Solar Power Generation Policy

How much solar power will the UK need by 2050?

To meet the UK government’s net zero target, the Climate Change Committee estimates that between 75-90 gigawatts (GW) of solar power will be needed by 2050. Analysis by Solar Energy UK indicates this would mean solar farms would, at most, account for approximately 0.4-0.6% of UK land – less than the amount currently used for golf courses

Should guidance on solar PV be included in the National Policy Statement?

The solar industry very much welcomes the addition of guidance on solar PV to the National Policy Statement for renewable energy infrastructure. However, there are several provisions which could be strengthened, which we have outlined below.

Is the UK planning a new solar plant?

The UK government is considering reforms aimed at improving the planning process for plants with capacity between 50 MW and 150 MW in England. Image: Wakerssk, pixabay UK solar capacity hit 17 GW at the end of July 2024, according to the latest deployment statistics released by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

Should a target for solar generation be included in the NPS?

This equates to roughly 40GW of solar by 2030, and the solar industry body, Solar Energy UK, has demonstrated in its 2021 report “Lighting the Way” that this target is possible. We recommend that a target for solar generation should be included in the NPS.

How much solar PV will be deployed in the UK?

As set out in the UK Renewable Energy Roadmap Update 2012, analysis indicates that there is a potential deployment range of 7-20GW (equivalent to 6-18TWh), with 20GW being the technical maximum level of solar PV deployment by 20201. 14.

How can the solar industry help the UK's farmers?

The solar industry is also working closely with Britain’s farmers to reduce their energy costs and improve the sustainability of their operations. To meet the UK government’s net zero target, the Climate Change Committee estimates that between 75-90 gigawatts (GW) of solar power will be needed by 2050.