UK solar roadmap heads in the right direction but cost and regional gaps must not be overlooked - LCP Delta

The government has published its solar roadmap to speed up solar adoption across homes and businesses in the UK. 

Dina Darshini, Head of C&I at LCP Delta:

“Today’s roadmap marks a significant step in making rooftop solar a key part of the UK’s clean energy future for homes and businesses. With solar now included in the Future Homes Standard (FHS), new home buyers could save up to £500 a year on electricity bills. Commercial and industrial rooftops also have huge potential. Our analysis with UKWA, referenced in the roadmap, shows that the largest 20% of UK warehouses alone could support around 15GW of solar capacity.

Because 80% of the UK’s new homes are built in England, the FHS will capture the bulk of future housing growth. To make the most of this opportunity, we need to see progress in all parts of the UK. Scotland is already ahead, with over 70% of recent new builds fitted with solar. It is important that Wales and Northern Ireland keep pace so more newbuild homeowners can benefit.

Cost remains a key barrier. Our research shows that 48% of UK single-family households without solar are held back by high upfront costs. It is encouraging to see the government working with the Green Finance Institute and others to explore financial solutions. Leading solar providers in Europe are already combining finance, services, and installation to improve access and the UK has a clear opportunity to follow suit.”