Where appropriate, solar panels can put unused roof space to good use and are an important technology in helping to reduce carbon emissions. I would like to assure constituents that the Government is committed to widespread deployment of rooftop solar.
I understand that the Government’s ambition for 70 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2035 will require a significant increase in both ground-mount and rooftop solar. Ministers have been clear that the extensive deployment of rooftop solar on domestic, industrial and commercial property to make effective use of available surfaces is a priority.
The Government has recently announced that it will expand permitted development rights to ensure more homeowners and businesses can install solar panels on their roofs without going through the planning system. The changes will mean homes with flat roofs will be able to install panels without planning permission, bringing rules in line with those for businesses. Reforms will also make 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 Government will scrap current rules that require businesses to apply for planning permission if solar panels will generate more than one megawatt of electricity.
While I share constituents 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. To help households who would like to install solar panels, VAT has been cut on energy saving materials.
In addition, the Government has set out plans to significantly reduce energy use in new homes and new non-domestic buildings from 2025. As a first step towards this standard, an interim uplift to energy efficiency requirements is in force and the Government anticipates most developers will comply with the requirements by installing solar panels on new buildings.
I have been assured that the Solar Taskforce will focus on further measures to unlock the potential of rooftop solar.