The UK solar energy landscape is constantly witnessing significant changes driven by regulatory reforms, technological advancements, and ambitious industry targets.
As part of our new monthly “Latest Developments” blog series, here is an in-depth look at the latest developments shaping the sector as of June 2024:
Record-Breaking Growth in Solar Capacity
The UK’s solar capacity has achieved a new milestone, reaching 15.7 GW across 1,454,607 installations by January 2024. This represents a 6.6% increase from January 2023, highlighting the robust growth of the sector. The surge in installations is largely attributed to the increasing number of domestic solar systems, reflecting widespread adoption among homeowners.
Further Reading – Energy Live News: UK Sees Record Increase in Solar Power Installations
50GW Solar Capacity Target for 2030
The UK solar industry has set an ambitious target of achieving 50GW of solar capacity by 2030. This target, which is part of a broader strategy to integrate 30GW of energy storage, aims to significantly boost the country’s renewable energy capacity. Achieving this goal is expected to create approximately 13,000 new jobs, generate £17 billion in economic activity, and reduce annual carbon emissions by 21.2 million tonnes .
Further Reading – PowerMarket: Solar Energy UK: 50GW Solar Capacity Needed by 2030
Streamlined Regulations for Solar Installations
The UK government has introduced significant changes to planning regulations, making it easier for homeowners and businesses to install rooftop solar panels. These changes include the removal of planning permission requirements for solar installations on flat roofs and the elimination of the 1 MW restriction for industrial rooftop solar systems. This regulatory easing is designed to accelerate solar adoption, reduce installation costs, and help the UK meet its net-zero emissions targets
Further Reading – New planning rules to boost solar rollout and slash energy bills – GOV.UK
Investment in Solar PV Set to Surpass All Other Technologies
In a notable development, investment in solar PV is expected to surpass all other energy technologies combined in 2024. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global solar PV investments are projected to reach $380 billion, reflecting a 25% increase from the previous year. This trend underscores the growing importance of solar energy in the global transition towards renewable energy sources.
Further Reading – PowerMarket: Solar PV Investment Set to Surpass All Other Technologies Combined in 2024
Development of a Comprehensive Solar Roadmap
The UK Solar Taskforce has begun formulating a comprehensive solar roadmap. This initiative focuses on optimising the use of commercial sites, such as schools, warehouses, and car parks, for solar power generation. By tapping into these underutilised spaces, the roadmap aims to significantly boost solar capacity and contribute to the government’s target of 70 GW by 2035.
Further Reading – Energy Live News: UK To unveil Solar Roadmap in 2024
Technological Innovations Driving Efficiency
Significant advancements are being made in solar technology. One new notable development is the breakthrough in perovskite tandem solar cells by UK-based Oxford PV, achieving an efficiency of 28.6% for commercial-size cells. These tandem cells, which combine traditional silicon with perovskite materials, promise higher efficiency and lower production costs compared to conventional solar technologies. This innovation is expected to play a critical role in making solar energy more viable and cost-effective.
Further Reading – Technology Review: Super-efficient solar cells: 10 Breakthrough Technologies 2024
Conclusion
The UK solar energy sector is undergoing transformative changes, driven by regulatory support, technological innovations, and ambitious growth targets. These developments underscore the critical role of solar energy in the UK’s transition to a sustainable and resilient energy future.
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