Looking out the window as we write this, it is hard to imagine that any energy is being gained from the sun, given the cloudy overcast conditions and drizzly rain. Yet this week figures have been released that show the UK is now ranked third, only behind China and the United States when it comes to utility-scale solar energy.

At the end of 2014:

• There were 649,747 solar installations in the UK, up 28% compared to the previous year
• Solar PV capacity was 5,095MW, an increase of 28% compared to the previous year

On top of this we have also seen a surge of new installations during the first quarter of this year. As a result, the UK now finds itself above the likes of Germany, India and Spain when it comes to solar energy production.

Profitable Food Production

Many of those solar installations are hosted by farmers, helping to support profitable food production. Speaking at the Large-Scale Solar UK conference last week, the NFU's chief energy adviser Dr Jonathan Scurlock said:

“It's a remarkable testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and skill of British solar farm developers that they have built a world class clean energy sector in collaboration with farmers and landowners”

It is expected that by 2025 solar power will have become one of the cheapest forms of energy in many parts of the world. In the UK we have already seen developments in material efficiency and this could result in cost reductions.

Jack's Lane Solar Farm

With the number of solar installations continuing to grow, it is possible that one of the next to be given approval could be here in the east of England. Developers Renewable Energy Systems Ltd (RES) are currently in the process of drawing up plans for a new Jack's Lane solar farm close to Barmer in west Norfolk. If given the go ahead, the new solar farm would be located close to the recently completed Jack's Lane wind farm and would have the capacity to power the equivalent of more than 1,000 homes.

“We believe that the proposed Jack's Lane Solar Farm will make a valuable contribution to the UK's energy needs and we look forward to welcoming local people to the public exhibition to view and discuss our plans” - RES solar developer, Rebecca Meek

At People with Energy we work with a number of clients in the solar energy industry and are always on the lookout for candidates to help fill vacancies that become available. If you have just left education, our team can help you maximise your earning potential in this exciting and expanding industry.

If you are looking to develop your career in the solar energy industry, visit our job vacancies page to find out more about the positions we are currently recruiting for.