Solar panels to be installed on some public buildings

Thursday, 12 March 2026 12:58

Schools, car parks and depot buildings could soon have solar panels on their roofs following a deal between Jersey Electricity and the government.

A deal has been reached for a 'ambitious programme' to install solar panels on a range of public buildings.

Together, Jersey Electricity and Jersey Property Holdings have been mapping potential sites.

A shortlist will be drawn up and the locations assessed for their suitability, including structural surveys.

Jersey Electricity will rent the space from the government, and will design, install and maintain the arrays.

The renewable power generated will be distributed to island homes and businesses through the grid.

The first location could be chosen and work started this year, with a longer term programme to be agreed.

Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan said: “Reaching this agreement is a significant moment for locally-generated renewable power using public properties.

"Government has a responsibility to lead on sustainability and deliver value for our Island; ensuring that energy produced from our buildings benefits the community is central to that commitment.”

Chris Ambler, CEO of Jersey Electricity, says customers have been asking for this:

"We believe this will be welcome news for many.

"Rooftop solar has a significant role to play in reaching the island’s sustainability objectives, as well as contributing to JE’s solar 5000 ambition to power 5000 homes with locally-generated solar power by 2030.”

The announcement comes in the week Jersey's government was heavily criticised for 'unachievable' carbon neutral targets.

The Climate Council warned that Jersey is not currently on track to meet its 2030 goals, and progress is being undermined by inconsistent policy decisions.

Read: 2030 carbon targets 'unachievable' with Government's current approach

Meanwhile, States members are due to debate a proposal from Deputy Montfort Tadier asking that ground-mounted solar arrays on farmland be banned after more than 800 people signed a petition against them.

The deputy says fields should be kept for agriculture. He was also asking that the government supports and promotes solar panel installation 'on all suitable States-owned buildings'.

That debate is set for 24 March.