Unlocking a Brighter Future: Solar Energy UK Calls for Ambitious 60GW Target by 2030
Solar Energy UK is urging the government to triple the country’s solar generation capacity to 60GW by 2030, presenting it as a game-changing opportunity to lower electricity costs, cut emissions, and secure energy independence. Backed by research from Durham University Energy Institute, the call highlights the transformative potential of scaling up solar energy in the UK. The analysis shows that hitting this ambitious target would:
- Lower Energy Costs: Reducing electricity costs by 12% compared to current projections.
- Strengthen Energy Security: Decreasing reliance on expensive natural gas imports.
- Accelerate Clean Energy Goals: Helping deliver clean power by 2030 while reducing dependence on unproven carbon capture technologies.
The Case for 60GW:
Solar Energy UK emphasizes that a 60GW target isn’t just ambitious but essential to de-risk the UK’s Clean Power Plan. Achieving this would diversify energy sources, maximize wind generation efficiency, and build a sustainable energy future. In contrast, the National Energy System Operator (NESO) proposed a modest 47.4GW capacity by 2030, relying on outdated assumptions. Solar Energy UK countered this, estimating the true capacity by the end of 2024 will already approach 20GW, thanks to growing solar farms, rooftop installations, and local initiatives like London’s Warm Homes Fund and Future Homes Standard. Chris Hewitt, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, stated:
“Solar and batteries can be deployed rapidly, offering the government an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate clean power delivery. Setting a goal to treble solar capacity to 60GW will provide the lowest-cost, home-grown energy while creating thousands of secure jobs. However, we must reform the grid connection process to ensure ready-to-build renewable projects are not delayed for years.”
Current Solar Progress:
- Operational Capacity: 11.5GW of solar farms, 8.5GW on rooftops (residential, commercial, industrial).
- Pipeline Projects: 3GW under construction, 11GW with planning consent.
- 2024 Projection: 20GW total capacity.
With rooftop capacity surging and 3GW of solar farms being built, this bold vision is within reach. Solar Energy UK is rallying support from over 400 members, industry data, and the public to make the case for this transformative target.
The Impact:
By aiming higher, the UK can lead the charge in renewable energy, creating a more resilient energy system, slashing costs, and providing thousands of new jobs—all while safeguarding the environment. #SolarRevolution #RenewableEnergy #NetZero #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #EnergyIndependence #SolarPower #GreenJobs #FutureIsSolar