A proposal to mandate solar panels on all new homes, introduced by MP Max Wilkinson, has been rejected by the UK parliament.
The New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill, nicknamed the “Sunshine Bill,” was debated during its second reading on Friday but did not advance further.
Wilkinson argued that requiring solar panels on new properties would address the UK’s cost-of-living crisis and climate change. “It could lead to lower household bills, reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, and enhance the security of the country’s energy supply,” he said.
Highlighting the impact of rising energy costs, Wilkinson linked the increases to growing food bank usage, stating that renewable energy access could have shielded households from price shocks.
The energy price cap, set by Ofgem, has risen significantly in recent years, reaching £1,738 annually for a typical household in October 2020, compared to £1,042 in October 2020. Wilkinson argued that households with access to solar power would have seen significantly lower bills.
While Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook expressed sympathy for the bill, he argued it could negatively impact housing supply and the construction sector. However, he noted upcoming building regulations would ensure new homes are equipped with low-carbon technologies.
“These standards will reduce bills, tackle fuel poverty, and enhance Britain’s energy security,” he said, adding that solar energy would play a significant role in future developments.
