The UK government has announced a major shift in housing policy, announcing that all new homes built in England from 2028 must be equipped with solar panels and low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps. This measure, part of the long-anticipated Future Homes Standard, aims to accelerate the country’s transition to net-zero emissions and bolster energy security.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has highlighted the necessity of these changes, stating that clean power is essential for energy security to escape the grip of controlled fossil fuel markets.
New Planning Requirements
The new regulations, published this week, stipulate that gas boilers will be banned in all new developments. Instead, the requirements include:
- Mandatory Solar: Builders must install solar panels covering an area equal to 40% of a home’s ground floor space.
- Low-Carbon Heat: Homes must provide low-carbon heat sources, such as heat pumps or connections to heat networks.
- Plug-in Balcony Solar: The government will legalise “plug-in” solar panels for balconies or gardens, allowing renters and flat dwellers to self-install units that plug into standard wall sockets.
These plug-in units are already popular in Germany, where over 1.5 million homes use them. The UK is currently finalising safety regulations, with products expected in major retailers like Lidl and Amazon in the coming months.
InstaGroup’s View
At InstaGroup, we have spent over 45 years helping homeowners and developers improve property energy performance. Low-carbon technology is not just vital for the planet; it is beneficial for household finances too.
While the new rules apply to new builds from 2028, the benefits of solar panels, heat pumps, and battery storage are available today. Government grants remain available to help with installation costs for existing properties. InstaGroup offers a full range of solutions, including air source heat pumps and modular battery storage through our InstaGen brand.
“This announcement gives the market the certainty it needs. At InstaGroup, we have been installing renewable energy solutions for decades and this will only accelerate demand for trusted, quality installation. Homeowners don’t need to wait until 2028; they can start benefiting from these technologies right now.”
— Ed Andrews, Commercial Director
How InstaGroup Is Supporting Developers Through New Heat Pump and Solar Requirements
InstaGroup supports developers in meeting new build energy requirements by offering fully integrated solar, battery and heat pump systems, alongside practical funding support to help manage upfront costs. Through InstaGen, we guide developers through available funding options and take care of the full process from design and specification through to installation and commissioning, making it easier to stay compliant with changing regulations and keep projects commercially viable.
Find out more about InstaGroup’s solar, heat pump and insulation solutions at https://www.instagroup.co.uk/instagen-home/renewables/ , or call us on 0118 932 8811.
