Poor building standards add £1,000 to energy bills of new homes
How Poor Building Standards Impact Energy Bills in New Homes
In the UK, the dream of moving into a brand-new home often comes with the expectation of high energy efficiency and lower energy bills. However, recent findings reveal a concerning reality: poor building standards are adding up to £1,000 to the annual energy bills of new homes. This issue is particularly pressing as energy prices remain volatile and households seek ways to cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
Many new builds fail to meet the highest efficiency standards, often due to inadequate insulation, substandard windows, and poorly installed heating systems. These deficiencies mean that homeowners must use more energy to keep their homes warm in winter and cool in summer, directly inflating their bills. With the UK government’s commitment to net-zero targets, this shortfall in building quality undermines national efforts to lower emissions and promote sustainable living. For homeowners, the financial burden is immediate and ongoing, making energy efficiency not just an environmental concern but a pressing economic one as well.
Why Are New Homes Still Failing Energy Efficiency Tests?
Despite advancements in construction technology and stricter regulations, a significant proportion of new homes in the UK do not achieve the energy efficiency levels promised at the planning stage. One key reason is inconsistent enforcement of building regulations, with some developers prioritising speed and cost-savings over quality. This can result in poorly fitted insulation, gaps around windows and doors, and inadequate air-tightness measures.
Another factor is the lack of rigorous post-construction testing. While regulations require certain standards to be met, not all homes are independently checked before being sold. As a result, some buyers move into properties that do not perform as efficiently as advertised, leading to higher-than-expected energy bills. This gap between expected and actual performance is known as the "performance gap," and it continues to be a major challenge for the UK housing sector.
The Role of Solar PV Systems in Reducing Energy Costs
One of the most effective ways to combat high energy bills in inefficient homes is to invest in renewable energy solutions such as solar PV systems. Solar panels generate clean electricity from sunlight, significantly reducing reliance on grid electricity and lowering monthly bills. According to the Energy Saving Trust, a typical solar PV system can save homeowners between £165 and £425 per year, depending on system size and usage patterns.
For new homes struggling with poor insulation or inefficient heating, solar PV can provide a much-needed buffer against rising energy costs. When combined with battery storage, homeowners can maximise their savings by storing excess energy generated during the day for use in the evenings or during peak tariff periods. Atlantic Renewables specialises in designing and installing bespoke solar PV and battery systems tailored to your property’s unique needs, helping you take control of your energy future (Atlantic Renewables Solar PV).
What Are the Most Common Building Deficiencies Affecting Energy Bills
The most prevalent deficiencies in new build homes that contribute to higher energy bills include:
- Inadequate loft and wall insulation, leading to significant heat loss.
- Poorly sealed windows and doors, allowing draughts and cold air to enter.
- Inefficient heating systems that consume more energy than necessary.
- Lack of modern ventilation systems, causing heat to escape unnecessarily.
These issues not only drive up energy bills but also reduce overall comfort and increase the home’s carbon footprint. Addressing these deficiencies through retrofitting or upgrades can be costly, which is why many homeowners turn to renewable energy solutions as a more cost-effective and sustainable alternative.
How Much Could UK Homeowners Save With Better Standards?
If all new homes in the UK were built to the highest current energy efficiency standards, the average homeowner could save up to £1,000 per year on energy bills. This figure is based on the difference in energy use between homes built to minimum standards and those constructed to the best practice levels, such as Passivhaus or A-rated EPC standards.
Not only would this save households money, but it would also contribute to national energy security and help the UK meet its climate targets. For developers and policymakers, the message is clear: investing in higher building standards pays dividends for both the environment and the economy.
Are Solar Panels a Viable Solution for New Build Homes?
Solar panels are increasingly being recognised as a practical and effective solution for new-build homes, especially those that fall short of ideal energy efficiency standards. By generating renewable electricity on-site, solar PV systems can offset the extra costs associated with poor insulation or inefficient heating. Many local authorities and housing associations are now specifying solar PV as a standard feature in new developments, recognising its role in reducing fuel poverty and supporting sustainability goals (Solar Energy UK).
Atlantic Renewables offers a range of solar PV and battery storage solutions suitable for new builds, ensuring that homeowners can enjoy lower bills and greater energy independence from day one. Our team of experts can assess your property and recommend the best system to maximise your savings and environmental impact.
What Can Homebuyers Do to Protect Themselves From High Bills?
If you are considering buying a new home, it is essential to ask for detailed information about the property’s energy efficiency measures. Request to see the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and inquire about insulation levels, window specifications, and heating system efficiency. Consider commissioning an independent survey to identify any potential issues before completing your purchase.
For existing homeowners facing high bills due to poor building standards, retrofitting with solar PV and battery storage can provide immediate relief and long-term savings. Atlantic Renewables’ engineers are experienced in upgrading properties of all ages and styles, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.
Get in touch
If you are concerned about high energy bills in your new home or want to future-proof your property with solar PV and battery storage, please get in touch with Atlantic Renewables. Our team of experts can provide a tailored assessment and help you start saving today. Call us on 0161 207 4044 and discover how you can take control of your energy costs with the latest solar technology!
