Government Urged to Mandate Solar Panels on All New Homes
New-build solar installations lag behind retrofitted systems for UK homeowners
by David Lewis | published 29 April 2025
Calls are intensifying for the government to address what campaigners have described as the “absolute scandal” of new homes being built without solar panels.
The Local Government Association (LGA) has highlighted that only 40% of new-build homes in England are currently fitted with solar panels — despite the financial and environmental benefits.
Solar Energy UK reports that while solar installation on new homes has tripled over the past year, progress remains inconsistent and slow. Making solar PV mandatory on new homes could save future homeowners around £440 per year in energy costs while helping the UK cut carbon emissions in its drive toward net zero.
Greenpeace’s Perspective
Across Europe, countries are moving ahead, with new EU legislation requiring solar panels on all new residential buildings by 2030. Greenpeace UK called the UK’s situation “an absolute scandal,” noting the rising cost of electricity and the urgent need to cut emissions. They argue that installing solar panels during construction is cost-effective and benefits homeowners for decades.
Slow Progress
The LGA is pressing the government to provide councils with long-term funding and regulatory backing, ensuring solar becomes standard on all new rooftops. Although the government says it plans to “maximise” solar installations through the forthcoming Future Homes Standard, campaigners fear that without firm action, opportunities will continue to be missed.
Labour has previously promised a “rooftop revolution,” pledging to significantly expand solar deployment, but questions remain about the strength of their commitment amid pressure from housebuilders to prioritise the volume of new homes.
Rooftop Solar’s Critical Role
Meanwhile, the Home Builders Federation acknowledges that solar panels will become more common as carbon reduction targets tighten.
The need for clean electricity is growing as demand from electric vehicles, heat pumps, and data centres continues to rise. Expanding rooftop solar is seen as a critical, cost-effective step toward securing a greener future.
At Infinity Energy Services, we strongly support measures that encourage solar energy adoption at the point of construction. Installing solar panels during the build phase is cheaper, easier, and provides homeowners with immediate benefits — while helping the UK meet its environmental targets.