Downgrade national standards for photovoltaic panels

Should guidance on solar PV be included in the National Policy Statement?

The solar industry very much welcomes the addition of guidance on solar PV to the National Policy Statement for renewable energy infrastructure. However, there are several provisions which could be strengthened, which we have outlined below.

Do solar panels invalidate NHBC?

Installing solar panels on new builds in the UK doesn't automatically invalidate the National House Building Council (NHBC) warranty, provided the installation is carried out by a fully certified installer and doesn't compromise the structural integrity of the building.

Are solar panels compulsory in the UK?

Following a consultation by the UK Government, Solar Energy UK predicts that compulsory solar panels will be included in the upcoming Future Homes Standard and Future Buildings Standard (due for publication in late 2024). Are solar panels on new builds mandatory in Europe?

Are solar photovoltaic panels part of a default package?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are expected to be part of a default package to meet forthcoming rules on the energy efficiency of homes and buildings in England, according to Government plans.

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.

Are solar panels mandatory on new builds in the UK?

Solar panels aren't mandatory on new builds in the UK. However, other parts of the world have implemented requirements - in the EU, for example, solar panels will be mandatory on all new residential buildings by 2030.