From 2027, All New Homes in Britain to Feature Solar Panels and Heat Pumps
Landmark rule to replace gas boilers in new builds aims to cut carbon, lower bills, and boost clean energy.
In a transformative move for UK housing and climate policy, the government has confirmed that almost all new-build homes in England will be required to install solar panels and low-carbon heating systems—effectively banning gas boilers in new builds from 2027. The decision is part of the long-awaited Future Homes Standard, set to be formally outlined in autumn 2025.
The policy is expected to significantly reduce household energy bills and accelerate the UK’s shift to renewable energy and net-zero emissions.
A New Era of Energy-Efficient Housing
From 2027, newly built homes will no longer be fitted with gas boilers. Instead, they will rely on electric-powered heat pumps or be connected to low-carbon heat networks, helping phase out one of the UK’s largest sources of domestic emissions.
These changes will also see solar panels become a standard feature of most new homes, with government estimates suggesting 99% compliance and minimal exemptions. According to current figures, this could save the average homeowner £530 annually on energy bills, based on the existing price cap.
“Today marks a monumental step in unleashing this rooftop revolution as part of our plan for change. New homeowners will benefit from lower bills powered by clean, homegrown energy,” — Ed Miliband, Energy Secretary
Accelerating the UK’s Heat Pump Transition
The UK currently lags behind its European neighbours in adopting heat pump technology, with fewer than 100,000 units sold last year—compared to 550,000 in France and 200,000 in Germany. But the shift in building standards is expected to quadruple UK heat pump installations to around 400,000 per year if Labour meets its target of 1.5 million new homes during this Parliament.
Experts say the policy could catapult the UK from being one of Europe’s slowest adopters of heat pumps to one of the continent’s largest.
“These plans are a huge boost to the UK renewables sector, to our efforts to meet net zero, and in reducing energy costs for households,” — Garry Felgate, CEO of the MCS Foundation
Support from the Climate Science Community
A group of leading UK climate economists, including Lord Stern and Professor Sam Fankhauser of Oxford University, have written to Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging him to remain steadfast in his net-zero commitments. In the letter, they warn against the "false choice" between economic growth and climate action.
“Sound policies can ensure we have both. There is no high-carbon path to long-term growth,” the letter states.
“Maintaining the course on net zero is the safest way to secure Britain’s long-term economic prosperity and energy security.
Updated Building Regulations & Planning Rules
The move follows recent changes to planning regulations that now allow homeowners to install heat pumps within one metre of a property boundary without applying for planning permission—a key win for urban and terraced housing.
Additionally, over 1.5 million UK homes already fitted with solar panels have enjoyed a recent financial boost during the sunniest spring on record, highlighting the long-term value of distributed solar energy.
Policy Origins and Political Context
While the policy is being implemented under Labour leadership, the Future Homes Standard originated in 2019 and has seen support from across the political spectrum. The original timeline, proposed under the Conservative government, included a 2025 gas boiler ban, later delayed. Labour’s updated timeline puts full implementation in 2027, offering a clearer framework for homebuilders and consumers alike.
Our Thoughts
The government's decision to require solar panels and heat pumps in all new homes from 2027 marks one of the most ambitious upgrades to UK housing standards in decades. It reflects a growing consensus that decarbonising homes is essential to cutting emissions, reducing household bills, and supporting the country’s clean energy future.
This is a strong and forward-thinking initiative. Beyond the environmental benefits, it also makes sense from both a political and national security standpoint. The UK cannot remain dependent on imported oil—we must prioritise energy self-sufficiency wherever possible to protect our long-term interests and stability.
As the Future Homes Standard nears publication in autumn 2025, developers, homeowners, and energy providers alike are preparing for a profound shift in how Britain builds and powers its homes.
Sources & References
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