Solar Panels for New Builds: 40% of New Homes in England Go Solar

Imagine moving into a brand-new home and discovering your energy bills are much lower than you expected.

That’s becoming a reality for thousands of homeowners in England, thanks to the rapid rise of solar panels for new builds.

In just a year, solar has gone from a rare upgrade to a mainstream must-have, with 40% of new homes now featuring solar panels.

So, what’s driving this surge, what does it mean for buyers and builders, and what’s next? Let’s break it down together.

The Solar Surge in New Builds

Solar panels are quickly becoming standard on new homes across England.

According to Solar Energy UK, the proportion of new builds fitted with solar panels soared from just 13% at the end of 2023 to 42% by the end of 2024.

This remarkable growth is a response to stricter building regulations, rising energy costs, and the growing demand for sustainable living.

Developers are increasingly choosing solar to help new homes meet energy targets and to attract buyers who want to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.

Are Solar Panels Compulsory on New Builds?

At the moment, solar panels are not strictly compulsory on every new build in England. However, this is set to change soon.

The New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill would require all new homes built from October 2026 to have solar photovoltaic (PV) generation installed, generally covering at least 40% of the new home’s ground floor area.

There will be some exemptions for buildings over 15 storeys or where installation isn’t cost effective, but the direction is clear: solar is set to become a standard feature on new builds.

Why Are Developers Choosing Solar?

Developers are embracing solar for several reasons:

Meeting Regulations: Solar panels help new builds achieve the SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) score required for compliance with building regulations.
Market Demand: More buyers want eco-friendly, energy-efficient homes, and public support for solar on new homes is strong.

Recent surveys show nearly 80% of MPs and over 70% of the public support making solar mandatory on new builds (MCS Foundation).

Cost Savings: While adding solar increases construction costs by £3,000–£4,000, it can save homeowners over £1,000 a year on energy bills.
Future-Proofing: With regulations tightening, solar ensures homes will meet future standards and remain attractive to buyers.

Benefits for Homeowners and Builders

For Homeowners:

Lower Bills: Solar panels generate free electricity, cutting energy bills from day one. Research shows that combining solar with battery storage can boost annual savings even further.
Eco-Friendly Living: Solar reduces your carbon footprint and helps the UK meet its net zero goals.
Higher Home Value: Homes with solar are more desirable and can fetch a higher price.
Modern Comfort: Many new builds with solar also come with smart meters and EV charging points.

For Builders:

Easier Compliance: Solar simplifies meeting SAP and EPC requirements.
Faster Sales: Eco features help homes sell quicker.
Reduced Retrofit Hassle: Installing solar from the start avoids future headaches.

How Solar Panels Help Meet Building Regulations (SAP Scores)

All new homes in England must meet SAP scores—a measure of energy efficiency.

Solar panels are one of the most effective ways to boost this score, directly reducing the electricity needed from the grid.

Once insulation and efficient heating are maximized, solar provides a straightforward way to push SAP scores over the line.

This is especially important for larger homes or developments where hitting energy targets can be challenging.

Steps to Install Solar on New Builds vs Retrofits

On New Builds:

Design Integration: Solar is planned from the start for optimal roof orientation and minimal shading.
Cost Savings: Installation is cheaper during construction, as scaffolding and wiring are already in place.
In-Roof Options: Panels can be integrated into the roof for a sleek look and better weatherproofing.
Minimal Disruption: Everything is done before anyone moves in.

Retrofitting Existing Homes:

More Complex: Retrofitting often requires extra scaffolding, roof modifications, and sometimes planning permission.
Higher Cost: It’s usually more expensive due to extra labour and materials.
Less Optimal Placement: Existing roof angles and shading can limit efficiency.

Government Incentives for Solar on New Homes

The UK government is making it easier and more affordable to go solar.

There is now a zero rate of VAT on residential solar panels, making installation more affordable for homeowners.

Additionally, the Smart Export Guarantee allows owners of solar panels to be paid for any surplus electricity they generate and export to the grid.

These policies are designed to encourage more people to invest in solar, cut bills, and help the UK reach its net zero goals.

Future Trends and Policy Outlook

The government’s commitment to a “rooftop revolution” means solar panels will soon be a standard feature on nearly all new homes in England.

The Future Homes Standard is expected to be published soon, setting out final details and driving the adoption of solar across the country.

With 80% of new homes in some regions already being built with solar, the trend is only accelerating.

FAQs

Q.1 Are Solar Panels Mandatory On New Builds In The UK?

Not yet, but from October 2026, almost all new homes will be required to have solar panels under the New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill.

Q.2 How Much Value Do Solar Panels Add To A New Home?

Solar panels can increase a home’s value and make it more attractive to buyers, especially as energy costs rise and green features become more desirable.

Q.3 Do New Builds Come With Solar Panel Warranties?

Yes. Most solar panels come with a product warranty of 10–15 years and a performance warranty of 25 years, guaranteeing at least 80–90% of original output.

Q.4 What Are The Building Regulations For Solar Panels On New Homes?

Solar panels must comply with building regulations covering structural, electrical, and fire safety, and help the home achieve the required SAP score and EPC rating.

Q.5 Is Planning Permission Needed For Solar Panels On New Builds?

Usually not. New planning rules mean most homes can install rooftop solar panels without costly planning delays, unless the home is listed or in a conservation area.

Conclusion

Solar panels for new builds are quickly becoming the new normal in England, with 40% of new homes already harnessing the sun’s power.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to save on bills or a developer wanting to future-proof your projects, solar is the smart, sustainable choice.

With new regulations and incentives on the horizon, now is the perfect time to embrace solar and join the clean energy revolution.

For more information or to get a quote for your new build, visit Energex Eco Limited.

Posted on May 23, 2025.

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