Jersery islanders left waiting on solar panel support

He said Phase 1 focuses on cutting emissions from burning fossil fuels.

As Jersey’s electricity comes mainly from nuclear and hydro-power in France, adding solar panels would not make a big dent in the island’s carbon footprint, he said.

However, he admitted they could help lower bills and reduce reliance on imported energy.

Any funding for solar panels could be considered in Phase 2 of the roadmap, which runs from 2027 to 2030, he said.

That decision will be made by the next States Assembly in 2026. Work has also started on an evidence-based energy strategy, due by the end of 2026, which will look at Jersey’s long-term needs and where solar fits in.

The minister pointed out that planning rules had already been relaxed to make installing renewable energy easier.

Most solar panels do not need planning permission, but there are exceptions for listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties near the airport.