The solar industry has grown in the UK since we last reported in 2023, a trend the new government is keen to continue
Nearly 3 GW of nationally significant solar projects have been approved by the new Labour administration – three times more than the last 15 years.
Our data show that support for solar has gone up among respondents who self-select as living near a solar farm. This could point to the positive work developers are doing to engage with the public throughout the development cycle.
While this is a strong foundation to build on, meeting the government’s intention to reach almost 60GW of capacity by 2030 remains challenging. A significant number of projects will be required and developers will have to continue harnessing public support in a sector with rapidly evolving technologies.
Sentiment towards solar energy remains positive
- General attitudes towards solar energy development are positive: 77% of respondents support the development of solar energy in their local area, while 55% say they have become more supportive of solar energy.
- More than 50% of respondents agreed with the statement: “Given the need to hit our net zero targets, solar energy should be prioritised in national planning decisions.”
- A large majority of respondents strongly believe that the local economy and community should benefit from solar farm development in that area, for example, by creating local jobs, skills and supply chain opportunities, or by feeding benefits back into the local community.
Support for prioritising solar energy within national planning, a clear majority of respondents feel that solar energy should be prioritised in national planning to meet the UK’s net zero targets.
Our report: A study of public attitudes to solar development
Successfully communicating the potential benefits of a solar scheme has never been more crucial for the energy industry.
Read the full report