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Labour’s Shift on Solar Panels for New Homes Raises Concerns
Pressure from the housing sector is prompting Labour to reconsider its stance on solar panels in newly constructed homes across England. The potential changes could dilute existing low-carbon regulations that are anticipated to be laid out in forthcoming guidelines known as the Future Homes Standard.
The Future Homes Standard is intended to ensure that all newly built residences adhere to low-carbon standards, addressing the urgent need to tackle climate change. Experts and environmental advocates expect these regulations to include mandates for homes to be unconnected to gas lines, well-insulated, and capable of generating renewable energy.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has previously vowed a “rooftop revolution” in solar energy, which resonates with about 80% of the public, as shown in recent polling conducted by various organizations. However, current discussions suggest a shift away from mandatory solar panel installations, instead promoting mere encouragement for builders to include solar options in designs “where appropriate.”
A representative from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government remarked that while solar panels are essential for achieving net-zero goals, their implementation might not be suitable for every new home, citing factors like shading from nearby structures. The spokesperson emphasized the need for building regulations that allow flexibility and innovation in construction methodologies and technologies.
Despite these claims, critics argue that the watered-down approach leaves significant gaps that builders might exploit, thereby limiting the installation of solar panels in new developments. David Cowdrey, acting chief executive of the MCS Foundation, expressed regret at the government’s decision, stating that not mandating solar installations represents a lost opportunity to enhance energy efficiency and contribute meaningfully to net-zero goals. He pointed out that consistent installation of solar technology could bolster the electrical grid by adding up to 4GW of renewable energy.
Housebuilders have expressed their concerns regarding mandatory solar requirements during the consultation phase for the Future Homes Standard, initiated under the prior Conservative administration. Labour has yet to reopen this consultation but indicates that a response will be forthcoming.
Steve Turner, an executive member of the Home Builders Federation, noted that builders were seeking the latitude to consider alternative low-carbon solutions, emphasizing that not every residential design would be compatible with solar technology.
However, experts warn that developers could tailor their designs to meet solar compatibility, negating concerns about orientation and shading. Jess Ralston from the ECIU attributed builders’ resistance to the added costs associated with solar panels, suggesting a reluctance to bear the financial burden despite public support for solar integration.
Adding solar panels during construction may only increase the average home cost by roughly £2,000, while retrofitting these technologies later on could be significantly pricier. Recent findings from the MCS Foundation highlight that the cumulative costs associated with solar panels, energy storage, heat pumps, and superior insulation could lead to annual savings of £1,340 for families.
Mike Childs, head of policy at Friends of the Earth, has called on the government to resist concessions to the construction industry. He emphasized that allowing builders to neglect solar installations would not only undermine homeowners but also jeopardize the UK’s climate objectives. “Solar panels are affordable, effectively lower energy costs, and support the UK’s targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which are currently lagging,” he stated. “It is imperative that the government prioritizes the welfare of households over the profitability of developers.”
Source
www.theguardian.com