Building regulations to mandate solar panels on new homes
The change replaces proposals made in 2023 that would have allowed developers to omit solar panels altogether if 40 per cent of roof area coverage was not feasible.
Recent policy updates have significant implications for both solar PV installers and customers. The UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding renewable capacity, with solar PV expected to play a pivotal role in achieving the 70GW deployment target by 2035.
The Roadmap commits to assessing plug-in solar options for flats, as seen in Europe, though these are not yet permitted in the UK. The Roadmap recognises the need to balance land use. Currently, only 0.1% of UK land has solar panels, with a forecast of up to 0.4% in the most optimistic scenario.
According to Solar Energy UK, over 1.3 million UK homes now have solar panels, a figure expected to rise sharply as incentives improve. These grants can cover up to 30% of installation costs, while zero VAT on solar panels and battery storage (introduced in 2022 and extended through 2025) further reduces upfront expenses.
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will amend the Future Homes and Buildings Standards to ensure that all newbuild homes include solar photovoltaic panels.
The change replaces proposals made in 2023 that would have allowed developers to omit solar panels altogether if 40 per cent of roof area coverage was not feasible.
The government says this will spark a "rooftop revolution", helping families save hundreds of pounds on energy bills annually. A typical existing home with solar panels could already save
The central role envisaged for solar power generation in supporting the decarbonisation of the UK energy sector is reflected in a draft revised planning policy designed to shape decision
This Roadmap sets out how, alongside ground mount projects, we plan to drive forward deployment of solar across multifunctional uses of space such as rooftops, car parks and water
The UK government has published its plan to support solar deployment to 2030 and beyond. Policies include updating the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, a safety review of plug
The government has several schemes to support the installation of solar panels. This includes the Energy Company Obligation (ECO), and the Warm Homes: Local Grant and the Warm
This requires end-to-end delivery on commercial PV schemes, from initial feasibility assessments to understand power requirements and optimise system designs, navigating the grid
The Solar Roadmap details government and industry actions that will be delivered to radically increase the deployment of solar in all its forms across the UK.
Stay updated on the latest UK solar policy changes for 2025. Discover essential updates for installers and customers to ensure successful solar PV projects.
The revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive will speed up the uptake of solar photovoltaics and solar thermal – both on residential and non-residential buildings - and increase the possibilities
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