Government’s Solar Roadmap Signals Major Growth for Renewables in Kent

Government’s Solar Roadmap

In June 2025, the government released its long-anticipated solar roadmap, which outlines how it plans to increase the UK’s solar capacity by 2030. The document acknowledges the effect of volatile fossil fuel markets on families and businesses, and states an intention to accelerate solar deployment with practical action.

Kent’s location in the South East of England means it’s in a prime position to accommodate additional solar deployment. The county gets the most amount of sunlight on the English mainland, meaning it can contribute significantly to the nation’s overall solar output. In addition, a strong existing renewables infrastructure will help Kent to develop uptake of solar PV systems. Here, we explore the key points of the government’s solar roadmap, Kent’s role in a sustainable future, and the benefits of solar expansion for homeowners and businesses.

Key points in the government’s solar roadmap

The solar roadmap sets a target of increasing the nation’s solar capacity from 18GW to 45 – 47GW and outlines the ways in which this government solar target can be met. These include:

• Increased implementation of rooftop solar panels on homes, commercial buildings and public spaces such as car parks
• Removal of existing financial barriers to domestic solar rooftop installation
• Increased use of agricultural land for solar PV systems
• Procedural reforms to allow easier grid connection for larger scale projects
• Potential use of lakes, reservoirs and ponds for floating solar systems
• Support for local community energy projects

Why is Kent central to the UK’s solar expansion?

With regards to the solar roadmap, Kent adoption of new policies could be key to improving the overall solar output of the nation. As a county based in the South East with a high target for new housing and plenty of ‘grey’ spaces available, the potential to install more solar PV systems is vast.

• Grey spaces

The government has identified a significant opportunity for so-called grey spaces to provide an increase in solar capacity. Kent is home to hundreds of car parks, some of which – including Bluewater and Ashford’s McArthurGlen outlet – have the potential to provide substantial contributions to the county’s solar output through the addition of solar canopies.

• New builds

The government has also set high targets for new homes in the county. More than 13,000 homes are required to be built every year, and those developed under the Future Homes Standard – due to be enforced from January 2028 – will be required to have solar panels installed.

• Climate

Kent is the one of the sunniest places in the UK, coming second only to the Isle of Wight in terms of daily sunshine hours. With an average of 4 hours and 47 minutes of sunshine per day, the county has the capacity to optimise solar output and make a meaningful contribution to the government’s solar targets.

• Uptake

Kent communities have embraced solar energy, with over 36,000 households (approximately 4.9%) already enjoying the benefits of solar panels. Groups such as Kent Community Energy are also highlighting the advantages of solar installations on community owned land. They are already proving that power can be generated for homes and profits reinvested into local schools and charities – without a single gram of carbon being emitted.

Benefits of the solar roadmap for Kent

While the importance of Kent’s role in the production of clean energy is clear, what about homeowners and businesses? How will they benefit from increased renewable energy in Kent?

• Lower energy bills

One of the major benefits of solar growth in the South East is the reduction of energy bills. As households and businesses across the county have already proved, hundreds of pounds can be saved each year by investing in solar panels. Our case studies highlight the financial benefits for homeowners and companies who have invested in solar PV installation in Kent, with some clients enjoying up to 60% savings on their bills.

• Cleaner air

Another key benefit of solar panels for residents and businesses is the reduction in carbon emissions. Businesses in particular have the opportunity to slash their emissions and contribute to a cleaner environment for the community. One 12kW installation carried out by the team at South East Solar & Electrical saved the business over 5,100kg of CO2 each year – the equivalent of 22 long haul flights.

• Smart export opportunities

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government incentive that gives residents and smaller businesses the chance to make a small profit from any energy they export to the grid. Those with solar panels can sell unused power to the grid for a fixed price per kWh, contributing to the overall green energy supply in the UK.

• Futureproofed energy

The volatile nature of the fossil fuel market has meant that energy prices have increased substantially over the past five years. Those investing in sustainable energy in Kent will have a degree of protection against future price rises.

How South East Solar & Electrical supports the solar roadmap in Kent

As a specialist solar installer in Kent, South East Solar & Electrical provides homeowners and businesses with solar PV systems tailored to their needs. Our experts assess each property to determine the best position and orientation for their solar array, as well as carrying out safe, efficient installations.

As an Octopus Energy Partner, and with MCS-certified engineers, we complete every project to a high standard, enabling you to save money and benefit from cleaner power. Our team is ready to assist communities, schools, housing developers, businesses and residents in switching to solar and contributing to a greener Britain.

Discover solar today

If you would like to discuss a solar panel installation with us, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ll be happy to carry out a full site assessment, provide a quote and complete your installation. Choose South East Solar & Electrical to help you move towards a cleaner future.