The government has confirmed a major step forward in sustainable housing: solar panels for new builds will soon be the norm. As part of the Future Homes Standard, set to be published this autumn, all new homes in England will be built with rooftop solar panels by default. This change is designed to reduce energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and improve energy security for the UK.
What Difference Do Solar Panels Make?
Solar panels help generate clean, renewable electricity directly from sunlight, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. According to government figures, a typical UK home with a standard 3.5 kW south-facing solar installation could save around £530 per year on energy bills—based on the current April 2025 energy price cap. These savings will be especially welcome for first-time buyers and families navigating the cost of living.
Solar Panels For New Builds Mandatory Under Future Homes Standard
The new standard will make it a functional requirement of Building Regulations that new homes include renewable electricity generation—primarily through solar panels. While practical flexibility will exist for homes in shaded areas, the vast majority of new builds will be expected to comply.
Previous Legislation
Earlier proposals in 2023 gave developers the choice to install solar panels covering 40% of a home’s floor area—or none at all. This allowed for too many exemptions and led to inconsistent adoption. The updated approach ensures that even if the 40% target isn’t met, a reasonable amount of solar must still be installed.
Boosting Energy Security And Cutting Household Bills
By encouraging homegrown, low-carbon power, these changes support the UK’s energy independence. In combination with low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps and improved energy efficiency, this policy helps cut both emissions and household bills.
Widespread Impact
This move marks a significant shift in housebuilding. The government expects the vast majority of new build homes to be equipped with rooftop solar, starting a widespread transition to greener living.
The growing demand for green skills is no coincidence. In recent years, the spotlight on sustainability has brought a sharp focus on the need for skilled workers in the low-carbon sector. Policy changes like the mandatory installation of solar panels on new builds only reinforce this trend. As the UK transitions to greener housing standards, thousands of qualified professionals will be needed to install and maintain the technology that underpins these legislative changes.
If you would like to get involved in this sector, consider training with Energy Trust. We offer professional Retrofit Training courses in a number of formats. Explore your options on our website, or get in touch to find out more on 0333 012 0002
