Solar Energy UK has responded to recent statements from the Energy Secretary regarding solar projects, emphasizing that the photovoltaic (PV) industry poses no threat to food security, contrary to some media reports.
Chris Hewett, chief executive of Solar Energy UK, stated, “Solar farms take up a tiny fraction of the country, which will still be the case in 2035 when the Government expects us to have four times current solar generation capacity. They are no threat to food security; they never have been and never will be. In fact, it's the opposite.”
Hewett's remarks came after the Energy Secretary, Claire Coutinho, issued a ministerial statement reinforcing government policy on solar projects. Coutinho emphasized the importance of utilizing previously developed land for such projects, while also considering the impact on ongoing food production.
Responding to Coutinho's statement, Hewett highlighted the role of solar farms in combating climate change, which he identified as a major threat to food security. He also underscored the economic benefits of solar farms, noting that they provide a reliable income for traditional farming businesses.
However, the Renewable Energy Association (REA) expressed uncertainty regarding the implications of Coutinho's comments, particularly in relation to existing policy. Coutinho's statement primarily focused on clarifying the accuracy of soil quality grading and supporting independent certification of assessments by developers.
Dr. Nina Skorupska CBE, chief executive of the REA, emphasized the importance of solar energy in achieving net zero emissions and urged careful planning of land use to avoid the loss of productive agricultural land. She also warned against restricting further solar development, citing potential negative impacts on job creation, investment, and the transition to clean energy.
The REA called on the government to publish a Solar Roadmap outlining strategies for meeting ambitious solar deployment targets, emphasizing the importance of diverse energy sources in achieving national climate goals.
