MPs Rally for Mandatory Solar and Power Storage Policy in New Build Homes.

Potential approval and policy regulations for mandatory solar panels and battery energy storage systems (BESS) in new home builds could profoundly impact the Future Homes Standard.

The Future Homes Standard is a visionary policy framework designed by the UK government to ensure that new home construction is delivered with the next generation of energy efficiency and low-carbon heating in mind and with the goal of future-proofing residences to be net zero future-ready.

Under the auspices of the Future Homes Standard, the potential policy to make solar photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage Systems mandatory in new homes could be transformative. The integration of solar PV and solar energy storage ensures that homes generate clean, renewable energy, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels and the grid and lowering household carbon footprints. When paired with power storage, these systems enable homeowners to store excess energy produced during daylight hours, enhancing energy self-sufficiency and providing a buffer against power outages or peak tariff periods. An additional benefit of BESS is the opportunity to align your system with smart energy import and export tariffs and sell excess energy back to the grid.

The ripple effects of such a policy would be significant; not only would it catalyse a reduction in national carbon emissions across the UK, but it would also contribute to energy security and reduce the strain on the national grid. From an economic standpoint, homeowners could enjoy reduced energy bills. Collectively, these measures signify a robust approach to tackling climate change, aligning with the UK's ambitious goal to reach net zero by 2050 while promoting sustainable growth and resilience in the housing sector.

At AlphaESS UK, we enthusiastically welcome this development, recognising the positive impact it could have on energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction.

The proposed regulations, set to be implemented next year, align seamlessly with AlphaESS UK's mission to facilitate a sustainable energy future for UK households. As homeowners grapple with rising energy costs and seek to bolster energy security, integrating solar power and home energy storage systems in new builds is a perfect solution, and it's fantastic to hear governmental agreement. However, the renewable energy and BESS sectors need to see government action to drive through these policies.

Mark Hale, Managing Director at AlphaESS UK, comments on the survey's implications: "Making solar power and home energy storage mandatory for new homes is not just an environmentally prudent decision but a financially strategic one. By adopting these technologies, we're looking at potential annual energy cost savings of up to £2,120 for individual homeowners. I firmly believe this could be a monumental step towards energy independence and resonates with the UK's net zero objectives. We are at the cusp of a renewable revolution that promises greater energy security and economic relief for individuals and communities."

In light of these optimistic results, Mark issues a call to action for Members of Parliament:

"The encouraging survey results represent a clear mandate from the public and the industry for progressive change. Now more than ever, this enthusiasm and support must not be left idle. We stand at a critical juncture where actions will speak louder than statistics. Our MPs in Westminster must seize this momentum and drive the policy from proposal to practice. The renewable sector is poised and ready to support this transition, and the housing industry eagerly anticipates the clarity and direction such a policy would provide.

A formal policy mandating the inclusion of solar PV and BESS in new homes is not just a win for the environment; it's a victory for homeowners who would benefit from reduced energy costs, and it's a boon for the economy by creating construction and renewable industry jobs. The time for deliberation has passed. We now look to our elected leaders to take bold steps to enshrine these measures into law. The renewable industry, the housing sector, and homeowners nationwide are united in this call. Let's make policy in place, not just in principle."

As the Future Homes Standard aims to ensure that new builds are future-proof, with effective energy efficiency standards, MPs' support is vital, and the standard could revolutionise the housing sector, making the UK a global leader in sustainable living.

The extensive BESS product range from AlphaESS UK, along with our renewable energy expertise, places us as a perfect partner to support the housing sector, with the capability of streamlining the integration of renewable technologies into new homes.

AlphaESS UK has an extensive network of BESS distributors and installers, and the potential mandate for solar and BESS in new homes represents a significant growth opportunity for our community. Experienced, knowledgeable and accredited companies must install, maintain, and upgrade battery energy storage systems. At AlphaESS UK, we ensure our distributor and installer network have best-in-class training, guidance and technical support. Installers can position themselves, using AlphaESS systems and operating as a trusted accredited AlphaESS UK partner, to property developers and homeowners alike. Installers must stay abreast of technological advancements, grid requirements, and best practices for integration to provide the most efficient and reliable service.

As the appetite and demand for BESS increase, we look forward to the mandatory policy becoming a reality, homeowners having a sustainable and cost-effective future, and the renewables and housing sector thriving, bringing jobs and revenue to the UK's economy.