Solar Potential in Lancashire
Lancashire's coastal location provides unique opportunities for solar energy, with its western coastal areas receiving significantly more sunshine hours than many other northern regions. With annual sunshine hours between 1,450-1,600, Lancashire offers excellent solar potential for new build properties.
The county's varied terrain—from coastal flats to the Pennine hills—creates diverse microclimates that can be optimized for solar generation with proper system design and placement.
Lancashire-Specific Considerations
Local Building Regulations
Lancashire has implemented progressive policies for renewable energy in new construction. The county's planning framework actively encourages solar integration:
- Preston, Blackpool, and Lancaster councils have enhanced sustainability requirements for new housing developments
- The Lancashire County Council provides streamlined approval processes for new builds incorporating solar technology
- Coastal areas have specific guidelines addressing salt spray and higher wind loads
- In the Forest of Bowland AONB, specific aesthetic guidelines apply to maintain the natural landscape
Weather and Environmental Factors
Lancashire's unique coastal and inland geography presents specific considerations:
- Coastal installations require marine-grade components resistant to salt corrosion
- The county's higher average wind speeds necessitate robust mounting systems
- Installations near the Pennines must account for potential fog and mist in system efficiency calculations
- Coastal locations benefit from increased sunlight reflection from the sea, enhancing generation potential
Local Incentives and Programs
Lancashire offers several region-specific advantages for solar adoption:
- The Lancashire Green Energy Fund provides additional grants specifically for new build solar installations
- Preston City Council offers reduced council tax in the first year for homes with solar PV systems
- The Lancashire Enterprise Partnership provides business rate relief for commercial developments with integrated renewable energy
- The Northwest Energy Hub, based in Lancashire, offers specialized technical support for solar installations
Lancashire Success Stories
Preston Sustainable Community
A new development of 78 homes near Preston featuring integrated solar arrays combined with heat pump technology, creating a model for sustainable community design in Lancashire's climate.
40% reduction in carbon emissions compared to standard new builds, with estimated annual energy production of 262,000 kWh.
Blackpool Coastal Homes
A seafront development in Blackpool featuring 32 homes with specially designed solar installations that capitalize on the enhanced sunlight reflection from the sea while withstanding coastal conditions.
25% higher energy generation than comparable inland installations, with marine-grade components showing zero degradation after 5 years.
What Lancashire Homeowners Say
"Our new-build home in Lytham St Annes was designed with solar from the ground up. The system was specifically configured for our coastal location, and the generation has exceeded projections consistently."
- Richard & Emma, Lytham St Annes
"The solar installation on our Chorley new-build has transformed our energy costs. The installers understood Lancashire's climate patterns and optimized our system accordingly."
- Thomas G., Chorley
Solar Solutions in Neighboring Areas
Looking for information about solar panels for new builds in areas near Lancashire?
Ready to Explore Solar Options for Your Lancashire New Build?
Our Lancashire specialists understand the unique opportunities offered by the county's coastal and inland environments. Contact us to discuss solar solutions tailored to your specific location within Lancashire.