What Does the Procurement Act 2023 Mean for Social Value?
Ahead of the Procurement Act going live in February 2025, Ian McKinnon from Veriforce CHAS looks at where social value fits in relation to the act. Ian McKinnon, Chief...
Read Full ArticleThe so-called Sunshine Bill was set to mandate solar PV panels on new builds, but it has been thwarted by the government.
The New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill would have required developers to make sure new homes had the ability to generate solar power, with panels covering an area equivalent to at least 40 per cent of the new home’s ground floor space.
The Private Members' Bill had its second reading in the House of Commons on 20 January 2025 where it was rejected for reasons including:
The Minister for Housing and Planning Matthew Pennycook pointed to the Future Homes and Building Standard Consultation as the government’s focus when it comes to improving the UK’s housing stock. He said:
“We cannot support the bill today. That is because the government already intends to amend building regulations later this year as part of the introduction of future standards that will set more ambitious energy efficiency and carbon emissions requirements for new homes. The new standards will ensure that all new homes are future-proof, with low-carbon heating and very high-quality building fabric. Not only will they help us to deliver our commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, but they will reduce bills, tackle fuel poverty, grow skills, foster diverse job markets and make Britain energy secure.”
Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), agreed with the rejection of the proposal and said: “The Bill, which came with penalties for non-delivery and required local authorities to administer the regulation also came with exemption clauses for viability, building height, space availability and whether other renewable energy was installed.
“It did not seek to mandate solar on public buildings.
“Minister for Planning, Matthew Pennycook who represented the Government, highlighted the costs to local authorities on delivery and enforcement, the skills challenge and the design period for projects far exceeding the 18 months required by the 1 October 2026 deadline.
“Pennycook also highlighted the negative impact on housing supply because such a requirement would see many projects come to a standstill while being redesigned or worst.”
Picture: a photograph showing a close up of some PV panels. Image Credit: Pixabay
Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 29 January 2025
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