Solar Energy UK has released an analysis suggesting that increasing the UK’s solar capacity to 60GW by 2030 could significantly reduce electricity costs.
Research by the Durham University Energy Institute indicates this target would lower energy costs by 12% compared to the 47.4GW proposed in the National Energy System Operator’s (NESO) Clean Power Plan.
Using a “digital twin” model of the UK power grid, the study also highlights that expanding battery energy storage systems (BESS) could further support clean energy goals and reduce costs.
Solar Energy UK argues NESO’s projections are outdated, noting NESO estimates 15.1GW of current solar capacity, while the actual figure is closer to 20GW.
The group also points out NESO overlooks government initiatives such as the Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund and Future Homes Standard, which aim to boost rooftop solar installations.
Assuming smoother planning approvals and successful solar farm developments, Solar Energy UK forecasts nearly 59.6GW of solar capacity by 2030—50% higher than NESO’s projections.
This growth could reduce energy costs to 11.7p/kWh, compared to 12.6p/kWh and 13.3p/kWh in NESO scenarios.
“Solar and batteries can be built very quickly and offer the government a huge opportunity to accelerate clean power delivery,” said Chris Hewett, CEO of Solar Energy UK.
“Setting a goal to treble solar to 60GW will provide the lowest-cost home-grown energy and thousands of secure jobs.”
Hewett called on the government to adopt updated deployment estimates. “We ask the government to reject NESO’s figures, setting a target range of 50-60GW in the Clean Power Plan, and ensure grid connection reforms don’t jeopardise solar projects or rooftop solar growth,” he added.
