Photovoltaic panels require new energy

Can solar panels be added to a new build?

For new builds and self-builds, you'll likely be looking at solar photovoltaic panels and/or solar hot water (solar thermal) systems. Instead of looking at options to traditional heating systems, solar panel installations can be added to new builds to improve the EPC and overall energy efficiency.

Should you use solar panels when building a new home?

Today, when building a new home, it is required that you include energy saving measures and offsets such as cheap new build solar panels. These include solar panels or solar thermal systems. Solar panels do not need to detract from the attractiveness of your new build.

When will solar panels be mandatory?

In March 2024, the European Parliament approved a law requiring solar panels on all new residential buildings by 2030. The EU Solar Standard makes it mandatory for member states to gradually include solar installations in new public, commercial, and residential buildings.

Should solar panels be mandatory on new builds?

Various places around the world have already taken the decision to make solar panels a mandatory requirement on new builds, including the heavily-populated Tokyo in Japan from 2025. European Union member states have agreed to implement mandatory solar panels on new builds from 2029, but this is yet to receive approval in European Parliament.

Are solar panels a legal requirement for new homes?

Even though installing solar panels on new builds is a great way to set new homes up with renewable energy from day one, it’s not yet a legal requirement. One common problem is that developers don't use all the available roof space, resulting in a less effective solar panel system.

Do you need planning permission to install solar panels on your roof?

An increasing number of people are investing in solar energy. More and more homes are having solar panels, or solar tiles, installed on their roofs. Of course, with such installations, the topic of planning permission and building regulations often comes to the surface.