Future Homes Standard plans – our reaction

Last week we heard that almost all new homes being built in England are set to be fitted with solar panels within two years. Under the Future Homes Standard plans, Housebuilders would be legally required to install solar panels on the roofs of new properties by 2027.

According to The Times, the policy is estimated to add between £3,000 and £4,000 to building a home but homeowners could save more than £1,000 on their yearly energy bills.

Adam Hug, environment spokesperson at the Local Government Association, said:

“This is positive news, and something we have called for, that will help cut carbon and costs for people across the country, which will benefit national and local efforts to address climate change and increase our energy security”.

However, the Home Builders Federation (HBF) warned that the requirement is “unrealistic” at 40% roof coverage. They said the proposals could also “slow the delivery of new build homes” as building companies would need to seek council approval if they wanted to incorporate coverage below 40%.

It’s also been reported that Ministers are preparing to offer government-funded loans and grants for the installation of solar panels on existing homes.

Joju Solar CEO, Joe Michaels, has been responding to the news, and you can hear his reaction here: