At Solar Essex, we believe smarter energy choices start with the right information. As of April 2025, 41% of the UK’s electricity comes from renewables, with over 1.5 million homes already powered by solar panels. With Net Zero 2050 on the horizon, solar is fast becoming the easiest, most affordable way to save money and go green.
Here are seven surprising facts about solar energy you might not know:
1. Solar boosts the UK economy
The solar sector is growing fast—employing 7,000 people in 2020 and set to reach 60,000 by 2035. Every home with solar helps save on electricity bills and supports jobs nationwide.
2. Solar is cheaper than fossil fuels
Thanks to falling costs, solar is now the cheapest electricity source in history. Since 2010, prices have dropped 82%, and in 2019 solar became cheaper than fossil fuels at just 5p per kWh.
3. The sun is endlessly powerful
Earth gets 174,000 terawatts of sunlight every day—enough in one hour to power the world for a year. Most panels are made from silicon, one of the most abundant elements on the planet, making solar energy limitless and sustainable.
4. Cleaner air, healthier lives
A typical UK home with solar cuts 1.3–1.6 tonnes of CO₂ each year—that’s over 165 trees’ worth of carbon offset. Less pollution means healthier communities and reduced strain on the NHS.
5. Solar farms light up entire cities
The UK has 1,336 solar farms, with 142 more under construction. These farms don’t just power local areas—they feed into the National Grid, sending green energy across the country. For example, one Dorset farm produces 49MW to supply London’s Square Mile.
6. UK solar capacity is soaring
With 18.1GW already installed, the government aims for 40–45GW by 2030, powering up to 9 million homes and driving the country closer to Net Zero.
7. Solar has been around for centuries
Humans have been harnessing the sun since 7th Century B.C. In 1767, the first solar collector was built, and by 1839, the photovoltaic effect—the principle behind modern panels—was discovered.
Now’s the Time to Go Solar
The UK could power over 3 million homes with solar alone—and the opportunity is yours. At Solar Essex, we make going solar simple. From tailored designs to expert installation, we handle the details so you can enjoy lower bills, reduced carbon emissions, and energy independence.
Get your free, no-obligation solar quote today—honest advice, clear numbers, and a smarter way to power your home.