Queen Margaret University submits campus solar plans targeting 25% of electricity demand
Energy · Scotland
By Net Zero News · Published 18th October 2026
Queen Margaret University has applied for permission for a solar scheme at its Musselburgh campus. Modelling indicates that ground-mounted and roof-mounted panels could together generate around 1.08 GWh a year.
Project status: Planning application submitted
What changed
The proposed output would meet approximately a quarter of the university’s annual electricity requirements. QMU is working with Locogen and proposes using a small area of campus grassland, alongside landscaping and biodiversity measures. Construction is expected to take around four months if planning permission is granted. The university anticipates lower reliance on grid electricity and less exposure to price changes; these are prospective benefits, not operational results.
Key project takeaways
Assess roof and ground opportunities together against actual campus demand.
Include landscaping, biodiversity and access requirements within the planning and delivery programme.
Why this matters
Universities assessing campus solar should compare available roof and ground space with electricity demand, planning constraints and biodiversity requirements. QMU’s proposed scheme remains subject to planning permission.
Source: Queen Margaret University ↗ · Original announcement: 15th October 2026