-- UK solar installations surged past 27,000 in March, pushing total capacity beyond 2 million systems and annual additions to 2.3 GW, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said Thursday.
Households across Britain are increasingly adopting solar energy as the government accelerates efforts to cut reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets following geopolitical tensions, the department said.
The UK recorded more than 27,000 solar installations in March 2026, marking the highest monthly deployment since 2012 and lifting total installed systems past the 2 million milestone, it added.
Solar capacity expanded 11.7% over the year, adding 2.3 GW of domestic renewable generation and strengthening Britain's ability to produce electricity locally, the department said.
The government continues to expand solar deployment across residential, educational, and community sectors to lower energy costs and support its clean power strategy, it said.
Authorities have approved the Springwell Solar Farm, set to become the largest solar project in UK history, while also advancing plug-in solar panels for household use within months, the department added.
The government is also mandating solar panel installation on new homes in England, aiming to scale distributed generation and reduce long-term energy expenses, it said.
Solar output exceeded 15 GW for the first time on Britain's electricity grid this month, reflecting accelerating integration of renewables, according to National Energy System Operator data cited by the department.
The government is expanding rooftop solar deployment through Great British Energy, supporting installations across 100 schools and colleges this year, the department said.
The government is also allocating an additional 100 million euros ($117.3 million) to the Social Housing Fund, targeting up to 57,000 new solar installations for households during the current financial year, it added.
"This is our clean energy mission in action, helping families manage global energy shocks, cut bills and move Britain away from fossil fuels," Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said.