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The New Homes Solar Generation Bill recently had its second reading in the House of Commons. However, due to government opposition, it failed to go any further.
Had it have been passed, the move would have seen all homes built after 2026 fitted with mandatory solar panels – a significant step forward in future-proofing new properties and one that would increase their energy efficiency, minimise carbon emissions and accelerate progress towards 2050 net-zero emissions targets.
While opposition of the bill may seem like somewhat of a step backwards, one industry expert believes that the decision will do little to slow down the monumental rise of microgeneration. Lee Sutton, co-founder and chief innovation officer of renewable energy tech firm myenergi, believes that the Uk’s adoption of solar power will continue to boom, regardless of mandatory installations on new build properties.
He comments: “Over the past few years, solar adoption rates have hit record levels. Indeed, according to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), an impressive 220,000 systems were fitted last year alone, more than any other year.[1] As a result, panels are now said to be installed on the roofs of more than 1.4 million UK homes.[2]
“It feels as though the rise of renewables has come out of nowhere. But if you take a step back, it’s not hard to understand why. A volatile energy market, fluctuating costs, price caps creeping upwards and threats over blackouts have put the general public on red alert. This, combined with increasing consumer awareness about the environmental impact of fossil fuels, has led millions of householders to look towards cleaner, greener, cheaper solutions.
“Domestic-scale renewable energy generation technologies, like solar PV and heat pumps, are quickly becoming commonplace in properties nationwide. While previously considered a novel and often expensive solution, continued research, development and economies of scale have seen prices crumble.
“As a result, insight from Which? suggests that you can now purchase and install a 3.5kWp solar array for around £5,500. On its own, solar PV can cut bills significantly. By adding a home battery, like the myenergi libbi, to store power in periods of high generation and deploy it in periods of low generation, you can see these figures fall even further.
“What’s more, the industry’s rapid growth has also given rise to a new dawn of technologies, such as power diverters, designed to maximise self-consumption. Much like batteries, these devices aim to tackle issues surrounding intermittent generation. At myenergi, we’re renowned for designing and manufacturing an integrated ecosystem of solutions to optimise energy use in the home. Alongside our eddi power diverter, we brought the world’s first solar-compatible electric vehicle charger – zappi – to market.
“By combining self-generation with innovative solutions to optimise self-consumption, it’s possible to minimise your reliance on the grid, reduce your carbon footprint and save thousands of pounds on your energy bills. All in all, it’s a sensible decision – with householders switching to renewables in their droves.
“So, while the New Homes Solar Generation Bill failing to garner government support is disappointing, it’s unlikely to slow down renewable energy momentum. The benefits of self-generation will continue to attract consumers and the transition will continue at pace.
“Interestingly, when it comes to new build properties, it’s unlikely to make too much of a difference either. After all, with changes to Part L of the Building Regulations coming into force next year, which will require property developers to incorporate state-of-the-art energy-saving technologies into their projects, renewable energy self-generation remains a highly attractive proposition.
“Housebuilders can use any technology that they choose, but solar PV and battery storage remains one of the easiest, most cost-effective, readily available decarbonisation solutions on the market.
“So, as an industry, let’s not be spooked by government opposition to the New Homes Solar Generation Bill. The roll-out of renewables is happening at pace and, while legislation is critical to accelerate progress, we’re likely to see far more impact through changes to Part L of the Building Regulations.”
[1] https://mcscertified.com/2023-a-record-breaking-year-for-mcs-and-small-scale-renewables/
[2] https://www.sunsave.energy/solar-panels-advice/solar-energy/statistics
