Solar panels for new-build homes

New homeowners should have cheaper energy bills thanks to proposed changes to the Future Homes Standard, due to be published this autumn, which will require most new-build properties to have rooftop solar panels fitted.

As part of its Plan for Change, the government has confirmed it will amend building regulations to explicitly promote solar – with flexibility in place for new homes surrounded by trees or with a lot of shade overhead.

Based on the current energy price cap, a typical existing UK home could save around £530 a year by installing rooftop solar panels.

Under the proposed changes, new homes will also be fitted with low-carbon heating systems such as heat pumps and be more energy efficient, reducing bills and boosting the nation’s energy security.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Solar panels can save people hundreds of pounds off their energy bills, so it is just common sense for new homes to have them fitted as standard.

“Today marks a monumental step in unleashing this rooftop revolution as part of our Plan for Change, and means new homeowners will get lower bills with clean, home-grown power.”

• For more details about the government’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan, visit: gov.uk/government/publications/clean-power-2030-action-plan