New regulations will mandate solar panel installation on the vast majority of new-build homes in England, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband announced. This initiative, slated for publication this year, aims to significantly boost the UK’s renewable energy sector and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Developers will be required to incorporate solar panels, with exemptions granted only in specific circumstances, such as excessive shading.
Miliband described the measure as “common sense,” highlighting projected annual savings of approximately £500 on household energy bills. The Home Builders Federation expressed support for increased solar panel adoption but cautioned against overly burdensome administrative processes that might hinder the government’s housing targets.
These regulations will be integrated into the Future Homes Standard, a broader initiative to enhance energy efficiency and curtail carbon emissions. Scheduled for release this autumn, the standard will include a transitional period for developers to adapt to the changes.
This marks a departure from current building regulations, which do not mandate solar panel installation. While the previous Conservative government proposed regulations requiring solar panels covering 40% of a building’s roof area, these were not implemented before the change in administration.
The Labour government’s approach differs, mandating solar panels on nearly all new builds, with exceptions only in truly exceptional circumstances. Miliband clarified that while specifics will be detailed in the autumn, the new rules ensure some solar panel integration even if the 40% target isn’t met.
Miliband expressed confidence that the added cost would not significantly impact house prices. Neil Jefferson of the Home Builders Federation noted that approximately two in five new homes currently include solar panels, indicating industry progress towards greater adoption.
However, Jefferson stressed the importance of streamlined processes to avoid administrative delays. Chris Hewett of Solar Energy UK anticipates that approximately 90% of new homes will comply with the new regulations, acknowledging the need for increased workforce training to meet the growing demand.
This announcement follows the government’s recent simplification of heat pump installation regulations. The push for increased solar power aligns with the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, a goal established by the previous Conservative government and maintained by the current Labour administration.
Recent analysis highlights record-high solar power generation in the UK this year, emphasizing the technology’s growing potential. Despite this progress, solar power currently ranks as the UK’s sixth largest electricity source. However, the recent commitment from the Labour government to mandate solar power in new builds shows the UK’s determination to improve upon its current energy situation.
The net-zero goal has faced criticism, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch describing it as potentially unattainable without compromising living standards. Reform UK advocates for its complete removal, while the Greens and Liberal Democrats push for faster progress. The Liberal Democrats have claimed some credit for the government’s action, highlighting the potential for reduced energy bills and carbon emissions.
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