Should Solar Panels be Mandatory on New Build Homes?
As global warming rises and the cost of living crisis continues to be a prominent problem in our everyday lives, the Government are looking at ways to tackle these issues. With targets to hit net zero emissions by 2050, they have put motions in place to achieve this, including solar energy investments and making electric cars mandatory by 2035 – but could they be doing more to achieve their target by 2050?
As part of the UK’s Future Homes Standard, the Government has been consulting on proposals for new regulations that could come into effect in 2025, and the idea to make solar panels mandatory on new build homes has been raised.
What does the public think?
After commissioning Censuswide to survey 1,000 people in the UK aged 25 and over, we found that 7 out of 10 people agree that solar panels on new build homes should be compulsory. In fact, 42% of respondents said they are already considering solar panels in the next five years. If this legislation is put into place, not only will it have a positive impact on the environment, but it could also save future homeowners money, helping them through the cost of living crisis.
Why do people in the UK want to invest in solar panels?
From environmental impact to cost benefits, there are many reasons why people up and down the UK are motivated to invest in solar energy.
As a way of tackling climate change, 38% of adults are considering installing solar panels. This motivator is more popular with the 25-34-year-olds, 60% of which stated that this was their biggest concern, in comparison to the 55+ category, where only 25% of participants said that this would influence their decision.
However, with the unpredictability of the economy, it’s no surprise that the primary motivator to install solar panels is the money-saving implications it could have. 52% of people who took part admitted that the fluctuations in the energy price cap make them more likely to consider installing solar panels.
Common misconceptions about solar energy
There’s a lack of awareness when it comes to energy provided by solar panels. Our research has found that a fifth of people believe that solar power can only be generated during the summer months – this includes a third of respondents aged 25-44. There’s no need to be concerned about this because it simply isn’t true – you can still get solar energy even in the rainy, cloudy UK!
64% of respondents said that they would be more likely to install solar panels if there was a way to break down the upfront cost – which leads us to the next myth of there being no financial help available. Many installers, including Project Solar, want to make solar panels more accessible, which is why we offer finance options.
While it would be great to see more people get educated on how solar panels work and their affordability, the data shows an encouraging perception of solar panels, with the majority of people agreeing that they should be made mandatory on new build houses. Not only will this help fight climate change, but it may also positively impact dealing with the cost of living crisis.
If you’re interested in installing solar panels on your home, make your enquiry with Project Solar UK today.
