The ambitious goal of the UK government to triple solar power across the country by 2030 is facing significant challenges, according to an expert. Stuart Nicholson, Roof Systems Director at Marley, a roofing specialist, has warned that the country’s lack of skilled solar panel installers is the main obstacle to achieving this target.

Barriers to Widespread Adoption

Despite the growing demand for solar panels from homeowners, the shortage of trained and accredited solar PV installers remains the biggest barrier to their widespread adoption. Solar PV technology, which converts sunlight into electricity using solar panels, is essential for the UK’s transition to a net zero future.

Regional Disparities in Solar Panel Installers

The number of qualified solar installers varies significantly across the UK, with some regions better served than others. For example, the East Midlands and Scotland have a higher number of qualified installers, while regions like the North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London lag behind in terms of reaching renewable energy goals.

London’s Solar Panel Shortage

London is a particularly challenging example, with the fewest number of qualified installers per 100,000 households across the entire UK. Despite having one of the highest percentages of homeowners considering solar panels, London’s solar panel shortage is a significant concern.

Expert’s Call to Action

Stuart Nicholson emphasizes that the shortage of skilled solar panel installers is not due to a lack of demand, but rather a need for more training and staffing. He stresses that the public’s reluctance to adopt solar panels is not the main issue, but rather the flaws in training and staffing that are holding back the widespread adoption of this sustainable technology.

“While homeowners are increasingly drawn to the reduced payback periods solar panels now offer, there’s a clear need for more trained and accredited installers to support accelerated adoption of the sustainable technology on the nation’s rooftops.” – Stuart Nicholson, Roof Systems Director at Marley

Government Response

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has responded to the concerns, stating that solar is at the heart of their mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower. They have already secured nearly 3GW of nationally significant solar projects since last July and are working to support the development of a new generation of good jobs in the clean energy sector.

Supporting Clean Energy Jobs

The Office for Clean Energy Jobs will work closely with Skills England, trade unions, experts, and industry to provide the skills necessary for the clean energy jobs of the future. This initiative aims to address the staffing shortages and ensure that the UK can meet its renewable energy targets.

Investment in Rooftop Solar

The government’s new initiative, Great British Energy, will provide £200 million in rooftop solar projects for schools and hospitals. This investment aims to help these vital public institutions save hundreds of millions of pounds on energy bills and reinvest in the front line. Conclusion
The UK’s goal to triple solar power by 2030 is facing significant challenges due to staffing shortages. However, with the government’s support and the initiative to provide more training and staffing, the country can meet its renewable energy targets and transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.