Solar Panels for New Build Homes
The Future Homes Standard (2025 building regulations) requires new-build homes to achieve an EPC A rating, which in practice means solar PV is mandatory for most new builds. We work with developers, housing associations, and self-builders across the North West to deliver MCS-certified new-build solar as part of the building programme.
The sector advantage
- Future Homes Standard (2025) requires 75–80% reduction in carbon vs 2013 baseline — solar is the most cost-effective route
- SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) score dramatically improved by solar
- EPC A effectively mandated for new-build properties from 2025
- Solar installed at build stage is 20–30% cheaper than retrofit (no scaffolding, no penetration repairs, clean cable runs)
- Developer: bundle solar as standard and market EPC A as a selling point
System sizes & payback
| Customer | Size | Annual saving | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| New 2-bed house (Permitted Development) | 3.3 kWp | £450/year + SAP boost | 8–10 years (often rolled into purchase price) |
| New 3-bed semi (standard FHS build) | 4 kWp | £660/year | 9–11 years |
| Self-build 4-bed detached | 6 kWp + Powerwall 3 | £1,400/year | 10–12 years |
| Development (50 homes) | 4 kWp per unit (200 kWp total) | Bundle pricing — £400–£500/kWp fitted at build stage | 7–9 years per unit |
What's different in this sector
Future Homes Standard
FHS requires a 75–80% reduction in carbon emissions vs 2013 Part L. Solar is the primary technology developers use to achieve this. Our new-build team liaises with architects on roof design, orientation, and panel layout from planning stage.
SAP Appendix M (solar input)
SAP calculations assign generation credits for PV based on roof orientation, pitch, and system size. We provide SAP-ready modelling (kWh/year/m² input) for your EPC assessor.
Self-build advantage
Self-builders who own the land can optimise roof pitch and orientation for maximum solar yield (36–42° south-facing). Retrofit is constrained by existing roof; new build isn't.
Developer bundle pricing
For 10+ unit developments we offer bundle pricing at £400–£500/kWp installed. Single-unit install rate is £900–£1,100/kWp. Scale saves significant margin on a full development.
Real projects, real numbers
6 kWp + Tesla Powerwall 3
Self-build detached, Knutsford
EPC A (SAP 97), annual saving £1,400, planning approved first time with solar counted toward FHS compliance
4 kWp per unit (96 kWp total)
Developer — 24 homes, Warrington
All 24 units achieved EPC A, bundle rate £490/kWp. Developer used EPC A as marketing USP.
3.3 kWp per unit + EcoFlow retrofit on 4 units
Housing association, Salford (10 units)
EPC A on all 10, combined £34,000/year resident savings, ECO4 funding on 6 units
Common questions
Is solar mandatory on new builds?
When in the build process should solar be installed?
Can I add battery storage on a new build?
Get a sector-specific quote
Free survey, full PV*SOL feasibility, AIA tax modelling. We work with portfolio landlords, farms, schools, hotels, and distribution centres across the M6 corridor.
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