Solar Panels For New Builds
The installation of Renewable Energies, such as solar energy, in new build housing across the UK is becoming more and more popular thanks to the change in Part L of the Building Regulations and SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure).
Most local councils are tackling the demand for good quality family homes, and sustainable living through the building of new homes. The introduction of low-energy homes are set to lower household builds, whilst encouraging sustainable living within a community.
As the UK targets to meet Net Zero by 2030, architects and developers are being forced to pay more attention to the energy performance ratings of new buildings. And it is for that reason why SAP regulations have become such a focus point for not just new builds, but for conversion and extensions also.
What are SAP Regulations?
All new build homes today are required to include energy saving measures such as Solar PV, in order to be self-sufficient and pass SAP calculations.
A SAP calculation is a score from 1 to 100+ which indicates the annual energy cost and environmental performance of a property based on a number of factors. This includes the structure, heating system, lighting, and low carbon technologies. SAP Ratings have been required for all new homes under Part L of the building regulations since 1995, however as new builds are required to be more self-sufficient, a “pass” now must be achieved. Requiring a minimum of 10% of consumed electricity on site to be self generated. However this figure can vary council to council.
SAP calculations are also used to produce Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Ratings. An EPC rating provides information about a property’s energy use and typical energy costs. It is against the law to rent or sell a property without an EPC rating, so it is essential for all new builds to pass the SAP rating. Adding Solar panels is an easy way to pass these new measures, with only a few panels required to meet regulations.
4 Reasons Why Solar Panels On New Builds Are A Good Idea
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1. Save on Roofing Costs
When you see solar panels on new builds they are typically integrated solar panels. BIPV or building integrated solar panels, are a great way to reduce tiling costs, whilst also going solar in style, as the solar panels sit flush with the roof at felt and batten stage. This makes them the perfect addition to any new modern home.
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2.Improve Your BrEeam Score
Installing Solar Panels on new builds is a great way to improve your BREEAM Score. Established in 1990, BREEAM stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment and is a method for assessing the sustainability rating of a building. As Buildings and construction are responsible for 39% of all carbon emissions in the world, local authorities are pushing for better BREEAM scores to help reduce the current negative effects of construction and development on the environment. It is important to help transition the UK towards a more circular economy, and a greener way of living through such measures.
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3. They reduce the building's energy costs and carbon footprint
Installing solar panels is a great way to decrease your property’s dependence on the National Grid and fossil fuels. The Energy Saving Trust estimates the average UK home with a solar PV system installed could reduce carbon emissions by 1.3 to 1.6 tonnes per year, depending on where you live in the UK. What’s more with energy prices continuously on the rise, the financial benefits of solar panel installations are one of the top reasons to switch to solar. Installing a renewable energy source such as solar, means that you can be saving up to 70% on your energy bill, which is all a new homeowner wants to hear! So not only are solar panels for new builds a great bonus for the environment but your bank account too.
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4. They can encourage sustainable living in the community.
With more solar panels on roof tops here in the UK than ever before, solar panels are becoming less of an eye sore and more of a statement of change. By installing solar panels on new builds we are effectively increasing the awareness in the technology and making renewable energy more of the norm. This is a great way to continue to encourage the UK’s transition towards Green energy.
The Future of New Builds
This change in legal requirements is just one of many changes coming to future living here in the UK. With gas boilers being banned in new builds from 2025, and all new properties also requiring to support EV charging, the UK are tackling climate change straight on.
Adding Solar panels to new build properties in our completely biased opinion is a must! Solar energy is simply the future. So if you are a building developer, contractor or architect looking to install solar panels for your new build projects, get in touch to talk to our expert team. As MCS Accredited Installers, our green team can give you the expertise required to implement solar panels at the most cost-effective price. As a solar panel installation company we have completed thousands of installation throughout not only Essex, but the entire UK. What’s more, now is the perfect time to install solar panels on new builds as there is 0% VAT on all solar installations.
