Scotland is at a critical moment in its clean energy transition. As electricity demand grows, we need more affordable, homegrown power. Solar is the cheapest source of energy, can be deployed quickly, reduces bills, and supports jobs and nature recovery.
We are calling on the next Scottish Government to commit to 9GW of solar and 10GW of energy storage by 2035, building on the existing 4GW minimum by 2030. This aligns Scotland with the rest of the UK and international ambition, while unlocking investment and economic growth.
Key Recommendations:
- Set a clear national target
- Commit to 9GW of solar by 2035, signalling confidence to investors, communities and local authorities.
- Unleash rooftop solar
- Update building standards so new homes and non-residential buildings include solar as standard, in line with the European Solar Standard.
- Enable affordable finance
- Reintroduce low-cost or interest-free loans to support households and businesses installing solar and storage.
- Level the playing field on grid access
- Increase Scotland’s Transmission Impact Assessment threshold to match England and Wales (200kW → 5MW), improving access for commercial rooftops and community projects.
- Make planning work for delivery
- Resource planning authorities and uphold National Planning Framework 4 so solar and storage projects can progress at pace.
- Build Scottish solar skills
- Establish Regional Green Skills Hubs and training pathways to ensure Scottish workers benefit from new, high-quality jobs.
Why this matters:
- Lower bills: Rooftop solar can save households £900–£2,100 per year.
- Jobs: Over 11,000 Scottish solar jobs by 2030.
- Nature: Well-designed solar farms support biodiversity and pollinators while allowing grazing to continue.
- Security: More homegrown energy means greater energy independence.
