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Great British Energy: Solar Power

Asked by James McMurdockIndependentDepartment for Energy Security and Net ZeroTabled Answered 4 April 2025UIN 42173

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the long-term sustainability of the solar panels being installed under the Great British Energy scheme in relation to their (a) lifespan, (b) efficiency degradation and (c) recyclability.

Answered by Michael Shanks

We expect panels delivered under this scheme to have an estimated lifespan of 30 years [with a 0.5% yearly attrition rate] which is based on our published assumptions.

Recyclability is a critical factor in the sustainability of solar panels and the schools and NHS trusts receiving solar panels under this scheme will be responsible for ensuring appropriate end-of-life management of panels under this scheme.

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