Can the UK Scale Solar Fast Enough for Net Zero with Chris Hewett (Solar Energy UK)

Solar has never been cheaper, cleaner, or more popular. Across rooftops, fields, and industrial sites, it’s quietly reshaping the UK’s energy mix.

But momentum alone isn’t enough. Without faster grid connections, streamlined planning, and a stable policy environment, the UK risks falling far short of its solar ambitions.

The technology is proven, the economics are compelling, and the public is on board. What’s missing is the speed and scale of deployment needed to hit net zero targets. The next phase for UK solar isn’t about invention, it’s about removing bottlenecks, integrating storage, and creating the right conditions for investors to back projects at pace.

In this episode of Transmission, Ed is joined by Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, to unpack the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, and outline how the UK can shift from incremental growth to a genuine solar surge.

Over the conversation, they discuss:

• Why solar’s rapid cost reductions haven’t guaranteed rapid deployment
• The grid connection backlog and how to fix it
• How co-location with storage can unlock more capacity
• Why planning reform is critical for utility-scale solar
• The role of investor confidence in hitting solar deployment targets

About our guest

Chris Hewett is the Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, the trade association representing the UK’s solar and energy storage industries. With years of experience in policy, advocacy, and the renewable energy sector, Chris is at the forefront of shaping the market conditions needed for solar to thrive. He works closely with government, industry, and stakeholders to unlock barriers to deployment, promote co-location with storage, and accelerate the UK’s transition to a low-carbon power system. His insight spans everything from market growth trends to the regulatory reforms essential for scaling solar at pace. For more information - head to the Solar Energy UK website.

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