Marley Comments on Government’s Response to the Future Homes Standard

IN RESPONSE to the publication of the government’s plans to move house building towards net zero targets, new energy efficiency requirements were revealed in January 2021.

Moving closer to meeting the Future Homes Standard by 2025, new homes will be expected to produce 31% lower carbon emissions from this year.

Stuart Nicholson, Marley Roof Systems Director 

Here, Stuart Nicholson, Marley Roof Systems Director, comments: “The publication of the government’s response to the Future Homes Standard is to be welcomed and delivers some much-needed clarity to housebuilders.

“With a focus on delivering greener homes and buildings, the announcement has set out significant changes to Part L and Part F of the Building Regulations. The commitment that all new homes in the UK will have to be ‘zero carbon ready’ by 2025, has further propelled the issue of sustainability into the spotlight.

Renewable Energy

“However, as a result of this pledge, there are approximately one million new homes which will need to be built between now and then. This target will undoubtedly see a rise in the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar PV, into new build projects to help deliver zero carbon homes, while also future proofing housing stock and ensuring that costly upgrades aren’t required in years to come.

“While the Future Homes Standard hasn’t set out upgrade requirements for existing housing stock, it does discuss energy requirements for extensions, building improvements and renovations.

“Again, it can be expected that retrofit products like solar PV will play a significant role in building upgrades, especially within social housing projects. And with funding currently available, such as the Green Homes Grant, to support these improvements it’s now important that local housing providers consider building renewable solutions into roofing specifications.

“Incorporating renewable energy sources, like solar PV, into new build and refurbishment projects will undoubtedly help to drive the Ministry of Housing’s Greener Homes Initiative, as well as providing a much needed reduction in energy bills for homeowners and tenants.”

>> Read more about the Future Homes Standard in the news