The UK government has announced that the next renewable energy auction, Allocation Round 8, will open in July 2026, bringing the timetable forward to sustain momentum in the country’s clean power programme.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband confirmed that the upcoming Contracts for Difference auction—Allocation Round 8—will open in July 2026, bringing the timetable forward earlier than previously expected. According to officials, the move is intended to sustain the pace of the UK’s clean power rollout after the previous auction delivered record outcomes. The latest allocation round secured the largest offshore wind procurement in Europe and, when combined with earlier rounds, confirmed enough renewable electricity generation capacity to power the equivalent of 23 million homes.
Miliband said the decision reflects the government’s commitment to accelerating investment in domestic energy production at a time when geopolitical tensions continue to influence global fossil fuel markets. “Global events demonstrate there’s not a moment to waste in our drive for clean power because there can be no energy security while we are so dependent on fossil fuels,” he said.
The earlier launch of the next auction is part of a broader set of measures intended to reinforce the UK’s energy system. Miliband also confirmed that the government will introduce so-called “plug-in solar” devices in Britain for the first time. These portable solar panels can be installed on balconies, walls or in gardens and connected directly to a household socket, enabling families to generate their own electricity. The technology is already widely deployed in parts of Europe, with Germany installing around half a million systems last year. Ministers say the option could prove particularly useful for renters or flat owners who are unable to install rooftop solar panels.
Alongside these initiatives, the government said it will continue cooperating with the Competition and Markets Authority to monitor fuel markets. The regulator has increased oversight of petrol retailers and heating oil suppliers to ensure companies do not exploit rising energy prices. Miliband said the clean power programme ultimately aims to shield households from instability in global energy markets. “Everything we are doing is about one purpose: fighting the corner of the British people by taking back control of our energy.”
Claire Mack, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said bringing forward AR8 was a practical step. “Now more than ever we must double down on capturing our homegrown energy potential to reduce the impact of global volatility. Attracting new investment for new clean energy projects this summer will be another catalyst for supply chain and workforce growth.
“The UK Government can further strengthen the package of measures… by taking immediate action on transmission charging. The current regime is not fit for purpose and without urgent reform it will significantly restrict the competition and value that can be delivered through Allocation Round 8 for consumers and our energy security.”