Tim Farron puts forward motion in Parliament for all new homes to be fitted with solar panels

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron has tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament for all new-build homes to be fitted with solar panels.

Tim’s motion also calls for local councils and national park authorities to be given the powers to enforce zero carbon standards on new homes in their area.

In the last Parliament, Tim put forward a very similar proposal to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. However, Tim’s amendment was defeated by 8 votes to 6, with every Conservative MP on the Committee voting against.

A study conducted by the charity World Wildlife Fund and the energy provider Scottish Power found that installing 10-12 solar panels on a home could save homeowners £586 per year in reduced energy bills.

Meanwhile a report from the National Housing Federation found that England’s homes produce more carbon emissions every year than is produced by all of the country’s cars.

Tim said: “Making our homes more energy efficient is absolutely essential to us tackling the climate emergency, reducing soaring bills, and improving our country’s energy security.

“By ensuring new homes are built to zero carbon standards, we can also save people from being left with huge bills having to retrofit their home later down the line.

“The previous Conservative Government gave us warm words on this, but sadly took very little action.

“It’s vital the new Government empower our local planning authorities to make sure our new homes are built to high eco standards, which will reduce energy costs and make a meaningful contribution to the battle against climate change.”