In an age where people and governments alike are hoping for a greener tomorrow, sustainable energy solutions are becoming increasingly imperative.
For instance, “the UK government aims to reduce all direct emissions from public sector buildings by 50% and 75% by 2032 and 2037 respectively, against a 2017 baseline. All UK emissions are to reach net zero by 2050.”
As the United Kingdom strides towards its renewable energy goals, there are certain cities we’re spotlighting as already having a massive impact.
1. London:
The bustling metropolis of London brings in about 30 million tourists a year. Home of some of the most famous UK attractions, it isn’t hard to see why. But London isn’t just a hub for commerce and culture; it’s also making significant strides in solar energy adoption. Despite its urban landscape, London has been investing in solar infrastructure on both residential and commercial scales.
“The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is committed to increasing the amount of solar energy captured in London as part of his wider ambition for London to become a zero carbon city. The Mayor has developed the London Solar Opportunity Map with the UCL’s Energy Institute and Centre for Advanced Spatial Awareness, to help London businesses and other organisations to identify opportunities to install solar panels on their property”.
London has innovative solar projects such as Hackney Light and Power and Solar Together to incentivize solar panel installations throughout commercial and residential areas. Clearly, London is setting a shining example for other cities to follow.
2. Bristol:
Known for its arts scene, interesting inventions and annual International Balloon Fiesta, Bristol is also taking up the mantle for solar energy. The city boasts a strong community of eco-conscious citizens, driving initiatives to expand solar energy usage. One such initiative is the Solar Together scheme, allowing residential customers “to get high-quality solar panels at a competitive price.” Bristol desires to replace gas and coal fuelled power plants and become carbon neutral by 2030, making this city’s dedication to renewable energy evident.
3. Manchester:
Home to two of the biggest football clubs in the world and a historical music culture, Manchester is third on our list. They’re embracing solar energy as a key component of its sustainable development strategy. Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, says the city has ambitious goals. He says, “Climate change is the biggest challenge we all face in the world today. In Greater Manchester we have declared a climate emergency and know that urgent action is needed to put ourselves on a path to carbon neutrality by 2038.” From residential areas to industrial estates, solar panels are becoming a common sight, helping to power homes and businesses while reducing carbon emissions.
4. Edinburgh:
Scotland’s capital city is leading the way in solar energy innovation, despite its reputation for cloudy weather. Edinburgh’s commitment to sustainability has spurred a surge in solar installations, supported by government incentives and community-driven initiatives. They are home to “one of the largest community-owned, urban renewable projects in the UK, named the Edinburgh Solar Co-operative… [Currently,] they own and operate 30 solar panel installations across the city.” From historic landmarks to modern developments, solar panels are seamlessly integrated into the cityscape, harnessing the sun’s energy for power.
5. Sheffield:
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Yorkshire, Sheffield may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about solar energy. However, this industrial hub has been quietly embracing solar power, leveraging its abundant roof space and open areas for solar installations. For example, a volunteer-led enterprise named Sheffield Renewables, is developing community owned renewable energy schemes. With this initiative, along with others aimed at promoting solar adoption among residents and businesses, Sheffield is proving that they are taking the steps to go greener.
6. Glasgow:
Scotland’s largest city has a vibrant nightlife, diverse art scene, and beautiful Victorian architecture. But it’s also making waves in the area of renewable energy, with solar playing a significant role in its sustainability agenda. Glasgow’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to clean energy has led to a surge in solar installations across the city. Local residents have developed a new renewable energy co-operative named Glasgow Community Energy. This co-operative has already successfully installed solar panels on the roofs of two schools, giving them the ability to save nearly 50 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. From social housing projects to commercial developments, solar panels are helping Glasgow pave the way towards a greener future.
Don’t take this list as comprehensive; there are more cities in the UK that are doing their part to contribute to the UK’s Net Zero initiative. But if you’re living in one of these cities, perhaps you’re already taking advantage of some of these energy schemes. And if you’re not, or you’re looking to move into one of these cities, look at ways that you can get involved! Here at Orchid Energy, we’re doing our part by providing bespoke solar installations to our customers, zero obligation quotes, and solar energy advice you can trust. To find out if you’re in one of our service areas, visit our website, orchidenergy.co.uk.