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The UK is set to see an expansion in solar energy projects as the government has recently awarded contracts for a record number of renewable energy developments. Among these, 157 solar farms across England, Scotland, and Wales have secured agreements, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to increasing its clean energy output. This move has been positively received by environmental groups who emphasize solar power’s efficiency and cost-effectiveness, particularly in reducing reliance on fossil fuels during sunnier months.
One of the standout projects is the West Burton solar farm, located on the border between Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, noted as the largest solar farm to win government backing so far. However, it faces opposition from local residents concerned about the potential industrial impact on rural landscapes. It’s important to note that all these solar farms already have planning permission and are expected to be constructed in the coming years. Alongside solar, the government is also supporting other renewable energy initiatives, including onshore wind farms mainly in Scotland and a few tidal power ventures.
Looking ahead, the government aims to achieve at least 95% of Great Britain’s electricity from clean sources by 2030, harnessing renewables like solar and wind alongside nuclear power. Despite limitations in solar power during winter months with shorter and duller days, it serves as an effective complement to wind energy during the summer when wind speeds are typically lower. The target capacity for solar energy is between 45 and 47 gigawatts (GW) by the end of the decade, potentially increasing to 54-57GW with added rooftop solar installations. Current capacity stands around 21-24GW, depending on the source.
The latest auction bolstered the solar industry by securing an additional 4.9GW of capacity, distributed across the awarded projects, surpassing the capacity secured in previous rounds. Contracts guarantee fixed prices for solar and wind developers for 20 years, adjusted for inflation, which provides financial certainty to investors. Solar power was awarded a fixed tariff of £65 per megawatt-hour, a slight decrease from the last auction’s £70/MWh, while onshore wind projects secured contracts at £72/MWh. Although these prices are considered cheaper alternatives to building and running new gas power stations, the actual impact on consumer energy bills depends on several factors, including wholesale electricity prices and grid infrastructure upgrades
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