A country that is famous for its lack of sunshine is betting that much of its future energy needs will come from solar power. This obviously sounds counter-intuitive, but within two years the UK government wants all newly built homes to be fitted with solar panels. This is part of their obsession with “net zero”, that continues despite criticism that even comes from establishment figures like Tony Blair. The former Prime Minister argued that the public was being asked to make “financial sacrifices and changes in lifestyle” that would have “minimal effect if any” on global emissions. The current government rejects Blair’s criticisms, and has mandated that builders will be legally required to install solar panels on the roofs of new houses by 2027. They estimate that this will cost the average home buyer an extra €6,000, but they hope this will be offset over the years by lower energy bills. Ministers are also preparing to offer government funded loans and grants for the installation of solar panels on existing homes.