The legislation, which is formally known as The New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill, was halted following its second reading in Parliament last week.
The private members Bill – sponsored by lib Dem MP Max Wilkinson – has been adjourned after its second reading due to an insufficient amount of MPs being present to vote it onto the next stage. However, it has been reported the Bill, which would require that solar photovoltaic generation equipment is installed on all new-build homes and that it should cover 40% of the building’s ground floor area, is due to be reconsidered on 11th July 2025.
At the reading, however, the MPs that were present gave the legislation almost unanimous support, much to the delight of The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE). The group have been asking supporters to lobby their local MPs to ensure there were sufficient members present to let the Bill pass through the reading.
Following the outcome of the Bill’s reading, CPRE released a statement which read: ‘This delay does not signal the end of the effort, but offers a new opportunity for MPs to revisit this important issue in the coming months.
‘There was plenty to be encouraged by during the debate, with MPs across different parties showing strong support for achieving a renewable revolution and climate action that protects our countryside, delivers the sustainable homes we need and helps lower energy prices.
‘It was pointed out that we are missing opportunities that other countries have been faster to embrace, potentially leaving the UK behind on energy security independence and all the benefits that go with decarbonisation.
‘Look out for further updates soon as we consider the best ways we can positively influence both the Sunshine Bill, and the Future Homes Standard – to deliver the common-sense rooftop revolution that our supporters, and the general public, so enthusiastically support.’
A video of the full parliamentary debate can be watched here.
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