Oxfordshire MP secures Ministerial meeting to push for rooftop solar on commercial buildings
It's to discuss barriers stopping businesses from installing rooftop solar panels
Last updated 21st Jul 2025
An Oxfordshire MP has secured a meeting with Energy Minister, Michael Shanks, to address barriers stopping businesses from installing rooftop solar panels on new commercial buildings.
Speaking in Parliament, Calum Miller MP for Bicester and Woodstock, highlighted how local employers are being blocked from contributing to the UK’s net zero ambitions.
The Liberal Democrat told MPs: “In my constituency of Bicester and Woodstock, the local plan anticipates significant new employment sites to create jobs and growth.
“Tritax Big Box tell me that they want to put solar panels on 100% of the usable roof area of the buildings they intend to create. Local planning policies would support this.
“Yet I was shocked to learn that Tritax only expect to install 25% solar panels on the usable roof space. They cannot get a permit to generate electricity nor consent to export to the grid."
Responding in the Chamber, the Energy Minister described the proposal as a “fantastic opportunity” and confirmed he would meet with Calum to discuss how to remove the barriers facing businesses like Tritax.
The Minister reiterated the Government’s ambition to “see solar on as many rooftops across the country as possible” and described the proposal as a “win-win.”
Under current legislation, there is no requirement for newly built commercial properties to include rooftop solar panels.
The Bicester and Woodstock MP says, “people in Bicester want to know that the new logistics buildings along the A41 will make their contribution to the green transition. It’s crazy that they want to install 100% rooftop solar on their new sites but are unable to get the necessary permits or consent to generate energy and connect to the grid.
“The shift to renewable energy is critical for this country’s future. Businesses should not be held back when they’re willing to invest. The Government’s rhetoric must now be matched by urgent action to unlock barriers and mandate rooftop solar as standard on commercial developments”.