Solar and Right to Light

Do I have a right to sunlight for solar panels?

There is NO specific 'right to solar light' in UK law: (1) PRESCRIPTIVE RIGHT TO LIGHT exists for windows (after 20 years of unobstructed light) but does NOT extend to solar panels. (2) A neighbour CAN build an extension, plant trees, or erect a fence that shades your panels — with no legal liability. (3) You CANNOT force a neighbour to remove or trim anything that shades your solar installation. (4) PLANNING objections on grounds of solar shading are generally not upheld — councils consider the neighbour's right to develop their property. WHAT YOU CAN DO: (1) Install micro-inverters or optimisers to minimise shade impact. (2) Talk to your neighbour BEFORE installing — good relationships prevent future conflicts. (3) Position panels to avoid likely shade sources. (4) Consider south-facing positions away from boundary lines.