Raising solar targets will cut energy costs

Solar Energy UK suggests increasing the UK’s solar power capacity to 60GW by 2030 to lower electricity costs. Research from Durham University Energy Institute shows that reaching this goal could reduce energy prices by 12% compared to the current target of 47.4GW set by the National Energy System Operator (NESO).

Using advanced digital modeling, experts found that expanding battery energy storage would further support clean energy growth and cost savings. Solar Energy UK states that NESO’s estimates are outdated, as they report only 15.1GW of solar capacity, while actual capacity is closer to 20GW.

Government initiatives, such as the Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund and the Future Homes Standard, aim to increase solar panel use on homes and businesses. With planning improvements and successful solar farm projects, Solar Energy UK predicts solar capacity could reach 59.6GW by 2030, cutting system costs to 11.7p/kWh.

Chris Hewett, CEO of Solar Energy UK, urges the government to set a 50-60GW solar target and update NESO’s figures. He highlights that faster solar and battery growth will provide low-cost, homegrown energy and thousands of jobs, ensuring a cleaner and more affordable energy future.