Where appropriate, solar panels can put unused roof space to good use, are an important technology in helping to reduce carbon emissions and I was pleased when the previous Conservative Government committed to widespread deployment of rooftop solar.
The ambition for 70 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2035 requires a significant increase in both ground-mount and rooftop solar and we were clear that the extensive deployment of rooftop solar, on domestic, industrial and commercial property to make effective use of available surfaces, was a priority.
While I share your view that rooftop solar has an important role to play in helping us decarbonise the power sector, it is worth noting that the suitability of solar panels on rooftops is limited by the type of building and its location around the country. Some roofs are not suitable for solar panels due to structural strength or the direction of the building.
In November 2023, the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government announced that it would expand development rights to ensure more homeowners and businesses can install solar panels on their roofs without going through the planning systems. The changes mean homes with flat roofs can install panels without permission, bringing rules in line with those for business.
These reforms have made it easier for solar panels to be installed in canopies above car parks if they are over ten meters away from people's homes. In addition, the rules were scrapped that require businesses to apply for planning permission if solar panels will generate more than one megawatt of electricity.
The current Government has decided not to set requirements for the amount of rooftop solar deployment needed, nor to the mix between installation on domestic and non-domestic properties. This means that no estimate has been made as to the amount of non-residential building roof space that is available and suitable for the installation of solar panels. Without knowing this, tripling existing solar capacity by 2030 will be incredibly difficult.
I look forward to reviewing the government's plans for the upcoming publication of the Solar Roadmap.
