Solar Panels May Become Optional for New Build Homes Under Labour Plans
In a significant development for new build homeowners, Labour is considering making solar panels optional rather than mandatory on new homes in England, according to a report by Fiona Harvey in The Guardian.
The decision comes as part of the long-awaited future homes standard regulations, which aim to ensure all newly built homes are low-carbon. However, instead of requiring housebuilders to install solar panels as standard, current plans may only "encourage" their installation "where appropriate."
Impact on New Build Homeowners
For those considering or in the process of purchasing a new build home, this policy shift could have far-reaching implications for both immediate and long-term costs. According to industry data, installing solar panels during the initial construction phase costs approximately £2,000 for an average house. However, retrofitting the same system after construction can cost significantly more, potentially leaving homeowners facing higher expenses if they decide to install solar panels at a later date.
The financial benefits of having solar panels installed are substantial. A comprehensive study by the MCS Foundation revealed that homes equipped with a complete green energy package - including solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps, and high-grade insulation - could reduce annual running costs by £1,340 compared to conventional homes. This significant saving highlights the potential long-term financial impact of the government's decision not to make solar panels mandatory.
However, the Home Builders Federation has raised concerns about the practicality of mandatory solar panel installation. They argue that not all properties are suitable for solar panels, citing variations in house types and roof designs. This has led to their push for greater "flexibility" in meeting carbon efficiency requirements, though experts counter that these issues could be addressed through better initial design and planning of new builds.
Industry Response
The response from the construction industry has been mixed, with major housebuilders expressing concerns about mandatory solar panel requirements. Steve Turner, executive director of the Home Builders Federation, maintains that "Solar is part of the solution but will not be appropriate in all situations." The federation argues that factors such as shade from nearby buildings or trees, roof orientation, and architectural constraints could make solar panels impractical or less effective in some cases.
However, clean energy experts and environmental campaigners strongly contest this position. David Cowdrey, acting chief executive of the MCS Foundation, called the government's apparent decision "extremely disappointing" and "an enormous missed opportunity." The foundation estimates that mandatory solar panels on new builds could add up to 4GW of clean, cheap electricity to the national grid.
Independent researchers have also challenged the housebuilders' stance. Jess Ralston from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) suggests that the real issue isn't technical feasibility but rather cost implications for developers. "Putting solar panels on new homes is a no-brainer, but builders have the government over a barrel because of the target to build 1.5m new homes," she explained. Environmental experts argue that potential issues with shade or roof orientation could be readily addressed during the initial design phase of new developments.
Public Support vs Industry Pressure
The debate over solar panel requirements highlights a significant disconnect between public opinion and industry influence. Recent polling demonstrates overwhelming public support, with approximately 80% of voters favouring mandatory solar panels on new builds. This strong public backing aligns with broader trends showing increasing consumer interest in sustainable housing and energy-efficient homes.
Despite this clear public mandate, housebuilders have successfully lobbied for more flexible regulations. Mike Childs, head of policy at Friends of the Earth, expressed strong criticism of this approach, stating that "the government mustn't cave into housebuilding lobbying by allowing them to choose whether or not to fit solar panels on new homes." He further pointed out that "the industry has a long history of building substandard homes and campaigning against tougher rules."
Environmental campaigners argue that this flexibility in regulations could significantly impact the UK's climate commitments. According to the MCS Foundation, making solar panels mandatory on new builds could add up to 4GW of clean electricity to the national grid - a substantial contribution to the country's net zero targets.
Implications for New Build Buyers
For those in the market for a new build home, these developments make it crucial to be proactive about energy efficiency features. Here are key considerations for potential buyers:
Early Discussions: Raise the topic of solar panel installation during initial negotiations with developers
Cost Analysis: Compare the approximately £2,000 installation cost during construction against potentially higher retrofit costs later
Future-Proofing: Consider how energy efficiency features might affect your home's long-term value and running costs
Technical Feasibility: Request information about your plot's suitability for solar panels, including roof orientation and potential shading issues
Contract Negotiations: Consider including solar panel installation as part of your purchase agreement
Ed Miliband, the energy secretary, had previously promised a "rooftop revolution" in solar power, making this potential policy shift particularly significant for new build buyers. The decision to make solar panels optional rather than mandatory could have lasting implications for both individual homeowners and the wider housing market.
Note: If you're purchasing a new build home and are concerned about energy efficiency features, consider discussing these aspects during your snagging inspection. Professional snagging inspectors can advise on the property's energy-saving potential and identify any issues that might affect future solar panel installation. Additionally, they can assess whether the property's design and orientation would be suitable for future solar panel installation, helping you make an informed decision about your investment.
