Alternative renewable energy technology such as solar panels will now be mandatory on all new housing and commercial developments.
In 2023, the States agreed Guernsey’s electricity strategy and directed the Committee for Environment & Infrastructure, in consultation with the Development & Planning Authority to explore ways to further facilitate the installation of solar panel arrays to increase on-island electricity generation.
The Island Development Plan encourages installing ways for harnessing renewable energy, primarily through roof-mounted solar panels or appropriate alternatives.
‘It’s good that some developers already do this as standard, but making it mandatory means that we’re making the most of the opportunities that new developments pose,’ said DPA president Neil Inder.
‘It’s also cheaper to install these during the build, rather than fitting them in somewhere down the line.’
Measures such as non-roof mounted solar products, air source heat pumps and battery storage can be considered as alternatives to, or in addition to, roof-mounted solar panels.
Sites will be assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure suitable provision can be made.
‘In 2023, through the Electricity Strategy, the States made a clear long-term, strategic decision for Guernsey to pursue additional interconnection while also increasing the amount of energy generated locally through renewable sources,’ said E&I president Adrian Gabriel.
‘I welcome the DPA’s supportive decision to make solar panels or alternative renewables mandatory on new developments. Making this the norm will undoubtedly help Guernsey in achieving its renewable energy targets.’
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