Clouds gather over solar power after golden years of success

After a day in which Britain generated more power from the sun than from coal for the first time, the industry should be rejoicing. But the mood is fearful

Given that the government is determined to avoid playing a financial role in the planned new nuclear plant at Hinkley Point, it is perhaps surprising that it is involved in the UK's largest solar array.

The 70-megawatt Lyneham photovoltaic farm - big enough to provide light and heat to 20,000 homes - is located at a former RAF base in Wiltshire owned and rented out by the Ministry of Defence.