In a potential setback for the UK’s ambitious net zero targets, the Labour government is weighing a controversial change to planned regulations that could make solar panels optional rather than mandatory on new homes in England. The shift, which comes after lobbying from housebuilders, risks weakening long-awaited low-carbon housing standards.
Future Homes Standard Faces Uncertainty
The future homes standard, a set of regulations designed to ensure all newly built homes are low-carbon, was expected to require housebuilders to outfit new properties with adequate solar panels, high-grade insulation, and to disconnect them from the gas grid. However, current plans obtained by a trusted source indicate the rules may now only “encourage” rather than require solar panel installation “where appropriate.”
This apparent weakening of the mandate comes despite promises from Energy Secretary Ed Miliband of a “rooftop revolution” in solar power following Labour’s election victory. Polling suggests equipping new homes with solar is overwhelmingly popular, garnering around 80% public support.
Housebuilder Objections and Loopholes
Housebuilders have raised concerns about mandatory solar in consultation submissions, arguing for “flexibility” to use alternative low-carbon options when solar is unsuitable for certain house types or roof designs. An executive at a major homebuilding trade group stated:
“There are a range of options needed to meet the carbon efficiency requirements that builders will need to use depending on the location and construction arrangements on each development. Solar is part of the solution but will not be appropriate in all situations.”
– Housebuilding executive
However, clean energy advocates warn this flexibility provides loopholes housebuilders will readily exploit to avoid solar installations. Experts point out developers could easily choose home designs and site layouts conducive to solar if panels were a genuine priority.
The True Cost of Cutting Solar
While housebuilders cite concerns over solar’s suitability, analysts argue their real objection is financial. The added cost of solar panels averages just £2,000 for a typical new home – a small price to pay for substantially reduced energy bills over the building’s lifespan. As one research group head explained:
“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. The issue is that the builders don’t want to pay for panels.”
– Clean energy think tank director
Environmentalists are now urging ministers to reconsider any weakening of the solar mandate. They argue caving to housebuilder pressure will leave new homeowners facing higher energy costs while setting back progress on the UK’s legally binding net zero emissions targets.
The Promise of a Solar-Powered Future
Proponents stress that beyond saving on bills, widespread rooftop solar on new builds could add a game-changing 4GW of clean, affordable electricity to the national grid. That renewable power boost is seen as crucial for meeting UK climate goals and enhancing energy security.
With the future homes standard already long-delayed, the coming weeks will prove pivotal. The government’s ultimate solar decision will send a strong signal about its willingness to prioritize climate action and consumer benefits over developer profits in the housing sector. As one advocate group leader summarized:
“Ministers should be standing-up for the interests of households, not the profits of housebuilders.”
– Environmental NGO policy head
How the Labour government resolves this critical renewable energy crossroads will have far-reaching implications, shaping the carbon footprint of England’s homes and the nation’s broader clean power transition for years to come. With net zero in the balance, advocates hope policymakers will find the courage to let the sun shine in.
