JLR Expands Solar Power to Cut Factory Emissions by 2030
According to the International Energy Agency, solar photovoltaic (PV) generation increased by a record 320 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2023, a 25% increase, reaching over 1,600 TWh.
Reflecting this global trend, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is set to inaugurate a substantial solar farm at its Gaydon headquarters in the summer of 2025.
This 26-hectare, 18 megawatt (MW) facility, equivalent to 36 football pitches, will generate up to 31% of the site’s electricity.
This project marks the first of three solar ventures planned across the UK, underscoring JLR's dedication to integrating renewable energy within its manufacturing operations.
Expanding solar capacity across the UK
In addition to this installation, JLR is enhancing biodiversity efforts by planting native wildflowers around solar arrays and restoring pollinator-friendly hedgerows.
This initiative aims to surpass regulatory biodiversity requirements.
At the Electric Propulsion Manufacturing Centre (EPMC) in Wolverhampton, a prominent rooftop solar expansion is scheduled for completion in autumn.
This project will feature over 18,000 solar panels, making it the UK's largest automotive rooftop array.
According to the government's Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, published in December 2024, the UK aims to reach a solar capacity of 45–57 gigawatts (GW) by 2030, approximately 2.5 times higher than the 18.1 GW installed as of March 2025.
The plan outlines the potential for an additional 9–10 GW from rooftop solar installations over the same timeframe.
Building on this governmental framework, the 10.7 MW facility will produce around 9,512 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity annually, sufficient to power more than 3,500 homes for a year.
The combined rooftop solar capacity will meet nearly 40% of the energy demands at the site, aiding the production of electric drive units and batteries for JLR’s upcoming vehicle lineup.
Future expansions include over 10 MW of solar car ports at JLR’s Halewood site in Merseyside, expected from 2026.
"The UK is a world leader in renewables, so I'm delighted to see JLR is leading the way and helping the UK become a clean energy superpower,” comments Sarah Jones, the UK Industry Minister.
“We’re serious about the benefits of net zero, which is why our modern Industrial Strategy is driving growth into our clean energy sector to attract even more investment and create jobs, backing the Plan for Change."
This project will be the largest in the UK of its kind, featuring canopy structures and solar walkways to offer electric vehicle (EV) charging points and enhanced access for employees and visitors.
Global progress on renewable energy
JLR’s renewable energy initiatives extend beyond the UK.
In China, its joint venture CJLR has completed a 20 MW extension of its rooftop solar array.
Operational since May 2025, this installation now generates over half of the plant’s monthly electricity.
“JLR is proud to have delivered these renewable energy milestones,” says Andrea Debbane, Chief Sustainability Officer at JLR.
“They are important because they directly reduce our global operational emissions and help move us closer to our net zero goal, whilst delivering tangible value today and for the long-term.
“The delivery of our self-generated renewable energy projects across the UK and China is part of our strategic shift to gain greater control over our energy mix against a backdrop of uncertainty, reducing our reliance on volatile markets and global grid infrastructure.”
Beyond generation, the installations aid temperature regulation inside workshops, cutting energy use while improving working conditions.
