Countryside charity launches another solar power campaign

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) is once again lobbying for a boost in solar power generation across the country.

In January they got firmly behind the The Sunshine Bill which, although it was adjourned until July, raised the profile of solar power prior to the government’s decision to mandate solar on all new builds by 2027.

In their latest campaign, they are encouraging people to email Ed Miliband to express their  support for the charity’s rooftop solar campaign checklist for a ‘rooftop revolution’.

This new campaign is launched as the government prepares to announce its ‘Solar Roadmap’, explaining how the UK can plans to move ahead to expand solar generation, address the skill shortage and provide access to the electricity grid.

CPRE are highlighting three areas in which they believe action could and should be taken:

1. Make Rooftop Solar Standard on All New-Build Homes by 2027
Ensure all new homes in England – including affordable and social rent – are built with rooftop solar by 2027 to lower bills and cut carbon. They recommend:

• Better incentives for households to sell excess solar energy to the grid (Smart Export Guarantee).
• Expansion of free solar installation schemes via Power Purchase Agreements.
• Simpler planning rules for installing rooftop solar.
• Integration with other clean technologies like heat pumps to turn homes into energy producers.

2. Retrofit Rooftop Solar on Existing Buildings, Especially Large Commercial Spaces
Unlock unused rooftop space on warehouses, car parks, schools, hospitals, and supermarkets by installing solar panels. They recommend:

• Government-backed low-interest loans to accelerate retrofits.
• New planning rules requiring solar on large car parks, like in France.
• Collaboration with National Grid to expand grid capacity for solar exports.

3. Protect Landscapes and Farmland from Large-Scale Solar Development
Avoid placing solar farms on the most scenic landscapes and top-grade farmland (grades 1–3a). Instead, prioritise rooftop installations and community-first planning. They recommend:

• Stronger planning policies to safeguard valuable farmland.
• Early, meaningful community involvement in large infrastructure projects (NSIPs).
• A land-use strategy that balances clean energy goals with protecting nature and food security.

Anyone wishing to add their support can do so here.