UKGBC responds to the Future Homes Standard

Read our Policy Team's detailed analysis of the Government's long-awaited Future Homes and Building Standard (FHS).

The Government has published the long-awaited Future Homes and Buildings Standard (FHS), a significant step toward more energy-efficient, low-carbon homes.

The Government has gone with the stronger option, accelerating the shift away from gas boilers to heat pumps and making rooftop solar a core feature of most new homes – cutting emissions by around 75%.

Simon McWhirter, Chief Executive of the UK Green Building Council, said:

We welcome the Government’s decision to adopt the more ambitious Future Homes Standard, putting new homes firmly on a path away from fossil fuels and ensuring rooftop solar and improved levels of energy efficiency are the new norm. This will help lower household energy bills, reduce pressure on the electricity system, and give industry the confidence to invest in skills, supply chains and innovation. 

Making high levels of solar readily available is a clear win for households, the energy system and the climate, particularly at a time when global instability is once again driving up fossil fuel prices and exposing the risks of relying on gas for our homes. It’s a practical, cost-effective measure that will pay back for residents from day one. 

However, this must be the start of the journey, not the end. Government must maintain this momentum and set out a clear timetable for the next iteration of building regulations. Many developers are already building to higher standards, and are eager to help ensure the next update delivers genuinely future-ready homes by the early 2030s – comfortable, affordable to run, climate-resilient and zero-carbon.” 

Read our policy team’s analysis to learn more:

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Future Homes and Building Standard Analysis
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