National support for solar power generation projects

Should a target for solar generation be included in the NPS?

This equates to roughly 40GW of solar by 2030, and the solar industry body, Solar Energy UK, has demonstrated in its 2021 report “Lighting the Way” that this target is possible. We recommend that a target for solar generation should be included in the NPS.

Can solar projects be promoted under the NPS?

This has meant that, while utility scale solar projects have been able to be promoted under the NPS for energy infrastructure, developers have had to follow a more protracted route to gaining planning permission: developers have had to rely on the general policy support within EN-1 for their solar projects.

Can solar power help decarbonise the UK energy sector?

Co-written by Matthew Fox and Toby Yeates of Pinsent Masons. The central role envisaged for solar power generation in supporting the decarbonisation of the UK energy sector is reflected in a draft revised planning policy designed to shape decision making on major renewable energy projects.

What is solar PV & how can it help the UK?

Solar PV is one of the eight key renewable energy technologies that can help to create a clean, balanced UK energy mix1.

Should guidance on solar PV be included in the National Policy Statement?

The solar industry very much welcomes the addition of guidance on solar PV to the National Policy Statement for renewable energy infrastructure. However, there are several provisions which could be strengthened, which we have outlined below.

How does the UK support solar?

2.10.12 Government is also supporting solar through the Contracts for Difference Scheme and will include it in future rounds. 2.10.13 Solar farms are one of the most established renewable electricity technologies in the UK and the cheapest form of electricity generation.