UK Mandates Solar Panels on New Homes From 2025

The UK government has announced that from 2025, nearly all new homes will be required to have solar panels installed under the forthcoming Future Homes Standard, set to be published in full this autumn. This policy aims to help working families cut energy bills by an estimated £530 annually based on current energy prices, while also promoting low-carbon heating solutions such as heat pumps and high energy efficiency standards. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasized the move as a 'common sense' step to unleash a rooftop solar revolution and boost national energy security. The updated regulation will replace previous proposals, mandating a minimum level of solar installation except in exceptional cases like shading or other practical constraints. Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook highlighted accompanying planning reforms that make it easier and cheaper for homeowners to install heat pumps and switch to electric vehicles. Industry leaders have welcomed the change as an important step toward reducing carbon emissions, lowering bills, and supporting the UK’s clean energy transition.