Solar Council
The Solar Council brings together government, industry, and key stakeholders to drive implementation of the actions contained in the UK Solar Roadmap and support the transition to clean power by 2030.
The Solar Council is a senior government and industry forum established to drive forward the deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity across the United Kingdom. Building on the work of the Solar Taskforce, the Council focuses on implementing the actions set out in the Solar Roadmap and supporting the delivery of the UK government’s Clean Power 2030 targets.
The Council brings together representatives from government, devolved administrations, industry, supply chain companies, trade bodies, trade unions, and other key stakeholders. It will monitor progress, identify and address barriers to deployment, and ensure that the benefits of a growing solar sector are realised for communities and the wider economy.
The Solar Council is co-chaired by the Minister for Energy and the Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, and meets regularly to provide advice, make recommendations, and foster collaboration across the sector.
Purpose
The Solar Council exists to support the rapid and effective deployment of solar energy across the UK, in line with the government’s Clean Power 2030 targets. Its primary role is to oversee the implementation of the Solar Roadmap, monitor progress towards meeting solar deployment ambitions, and provide a forum for senior engagement between government, industry, and other key stakeholders.
The Council works collaboratively to identify and address barriers to solar deployment, advise government on emerging challenges, and recommend solutions that maximise the benefits of solar for the UK economy and communities. It also seeks to ensure that the growth of the solar sector delivers investment, job creation, skills development, and innovation, while reflecting the diverse needs and experiences of communities across the country.
The Council’s recommendations are considered through existing policy and governance processes, but do not create binding obligations for government.
Membership
The Solar Council comprises senior representatives from across government, devolved administrations, industry, supply chain companies, trade bodies, trade unions, and other relevant organisations. Membership is both standing and meeting-specific, ensuring that the Council reflects the breadth of expertise and interests within the UK solar sector.
Co-chairs
- Michael Shanks MP, Minister for Energy (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)
- Chris Hewett, Chief Executive, Solar Energy UK
Standing members include
- officials from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ)
- representatives from Solar Energy UK
- representatives from the Scottish Government, Welsh Government, and Northern Ireland Executive
- industry leaders
- trade union representation (on a rotating basis)
Ad-hoc members
Attendance is extended to additional organisations and individuals based on the relevance of meeting agenda items. This may include:
- National Energy System Operator (NESO)
- Great British Energy
- National Wealth Fund
- trade associations
- community and consumer representatives
- relevant industry representatives
- government and Ofgem officials as appropriate