UK government to turn rooftops into solar power stations

Plans to turn the Government estate as well as factories, supermarkets and car parks into “solar hubs” have been outlined in a new strategy by Energy Minister Greg Barker.

The Solar Strategy, the first of its kind in the UK, sets out the Government's ambition to see solar rolled out more widely and with it the potential to support tens of thousands of jobs.

Launching the Solar Strategy at SunSolar Energy in Birmingham, Energy Minister Greg Barker said: “We have put ourselves among the world leaders on solar and this ambitious strategy will place us right at the cutting edge.

“Solar not only benefits the environment, it will see British job creation and deliver the clean and reliable energy supplies that the country needs at the lowest possible cost to consumers.

"We want to move the emphasis for growth away from large solar farms and instead focus on opening up the solar market for the UK’s estimated 250,000 hectares of south facing commercial rooftops. Solar increasingly offers efficient and cost effective onsite generation opportunities to both businesses and domestic consumers, and our strategy makes a step change in our ambition for both. as a means to generate renewable energy."

The government maintains that widespread solar will ensure a better deal for consumers and help move towards a greener, more local energy sector.

Picture courtesy: © Remigiusz Oprzadek | Dreamstime Stock Photos