I’m proud that my constituents have such an active consciousness towards building a sustainable future both for Southend West and nationally. Protecting the beauty of our countryside is something I consider deeply important, and I also appreciate the need to decarbonise the energy sector.
From my understanding, the Government has ambitions for 70 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2035, which will require a significant increase in both ground-mount and rooftop solar. I agree that where appropriate, solar panels can put unused roof space to good use and are an important technology in helping to reduce carbon emissions. The extensive deployment of rooftop solar on domestic, industrial, and commercial property to make effective use of available surfaces is a priority. This Government is supporting the installation of rooftop solar in numerous different ways: financial incentives, performance standards, and the establishment of the Solar Taskforce. I fully support the Solar Taskforce and this Government’s endeavours to drive forward the increases in rooftop solar needed to meet the expectation of a fivefold increase in solar PV deployment by 2035, and other renewable energy commitments.
If you should wish to see the progress of the Solar Taskforce, the notes of the meetings are available at Solar Taskforce - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)