New homes in the UK will be fitted with solar panels by default under proposed changes to the Future Homes Standard, set to be published this autumn.
The move is part of the government’s broader Plan for Change, which aims to improve energy efficiency, lower bills, and increase the use of clean, homegrown power.
The inclusion of rooftop solar in the building regulations marks a shift towards higher standards for energy use in new homes.
While some exceptions will be made for properties with significant shading, the government expects solar panels to be installed on the vast majority of new builds.
“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,” said Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. “Today marks a monumental step in unleashing this rooftop revolution.”
Alongside solar panels, the Future Homes Standard will require low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, and high energy efficiency.
According to government estimates based on the current energy price cap, a typical UK home could save around £530 a year with solar panels alone.
Industry reactions
Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, has worked closely with Miliband, co-chair of the UK Solar Taskforce, which was relaunched in October 2024 and aims to accelerate the nation’s adoption of solar power.
In response to the Standard, Hewett said the change would “cut energy bills, lower carbon emissions, help drive polluting natural gas off the grid and improve our nation’s energy security.”
Additionally, Charlotte Lee, CEO of the Heat Pump Association, commented: “Highly efficient heat pump installations will result in low consumer energy bills and increase the UK’s energy security.”
The government is working with industry to finalise technical details ahead of the Future Homes Standard’s official publication later this year.
