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In May 2025, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) launched a consultation on a proposal to mandate the introduction of solar canopies on new outdoor car parks. This process is now coming to a head, with a policy direction expected by October.
The call for evidence explored opportunities for deployment on existing car parks, above a certain size, including car parks in both public and private ownership, and whether multi-storey car parks and residential car parks should be included in the scope.
Furthermore, the Government sought feedback on other ways to increase deployment of solar canopies on outdoor car parks, and views on potential changes to the planning regime when installing electric vehicle (EV) charge points.
It states that since transport remains the largest emitting sector of greenhouse gases, decarbonising road transport through EV adoption is “critical”, requiring a substantial expansion of charging infrastructure.
“Right now, the sun is shining on hundreds of thousands of car parking spaces across the country which could be used to power our homes and businesses.
We want to work with businesses and car park operators to turn our car parks into solar carports to save families and businesses money with clean, homegrown British energy.”
— Energy Secretary Ed Miliband
Solar carports are already mandatory in some European countries, including France and Slovenia, where they provide a significant source of cheaper solar power.
Initial estimates suggest that an 80-space car park could save around £28,000 per year in electricity bills by installing solar carports and using all the electricity generated.
The call for evidence also invited further insights into:
“We’re committed to ensuring electric car drivers are always close to a charger and can save money when making the switch.”
— Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood