Londoners are missing out on the benefits of solar generated electricity. 

To illustrate its potential, I recently visited a school that generates almost a quarter of its electricity needs from solar, yet they are the exception. 

I have therefore urged the Mayor of London to kick start a solar revolution in London and turn the underused and empty rooftops of schools, commercial and industrial businesses, supermarkets, car parks, transport and public buildings into mini power stations.

With on average only one in 260 London roofs fitted, we need to learn lessons from the south west of England – where the rate of installation is eight times higher – and from northern regions with far less sun but far more solar panels.

And unlike fracking, which Boris Johnson is an enthusiastic advocate for, solar generated electricity avoids the risk of contaminating ground water, disruptive truck movements through local communities, the massive water requirements it needs and the fact that it is just another fossil fuel that will accelerate climate change.

Jenny Jones,
Green Party member, 
London Assembly.