Plans to implement a nationwide ‘solar revolution’ by Secretary of State for Energy & Climate Change, Amber Rudd, have been welcomed by a renewable energy equipment manufacturer.

Ms Rudd has proposed the installation of solar technology among the key goals in her new government role. Currently only around 640,000 UK homes have solar panels installed.

She has positioned herself as a strong proponent for solar power alongside encouraging energy efficient products, also stating that she will help to further encourage the benefits of switching energy tariffs and would like to improve home insulation.

Jerry Hamilton, business development director of renewables & energy solutions at Rexel UK, said: “The new Energy Secretary’s announcement is great news for the industry, with many arguing that not enough is currently being done to promote the rooftop solar market.

“As the green agenda becomes more prevalent and the fuel poverty issue escalates – the reality is that solar PV offers a key solution in terms of helping reducing our national carbon footprint while reducing energy cost for all.

“Although more and more consumers are beginning to appreciate the cost benefits that are associated with solar PV, many aren’t aware of how easy it is to install and reap the rewards of the technology.

“Last year we launched the Energeasy Solar online service, which simplifies the process of finding an installer. The service allows consumers and installers to accurately calculate the generation potential of a solar PV installation as well as expected revenue schemes from Government schemes, such as the Feed-in-Tariff or the Northern Ireland Energy Obligation Certificate,” he said.