When it comes to specifying heating and energy solutions in our homes there is a new catch-word creeping into the conversations. The word is electro-tech, and even though it is a generic term, it is being adopted in our everyday language when discussing modern homes.

First adopted by economists and energy experts to collectively describe the global shift away from fossil fuels, and the move towards digitally driven, highly efficient, electrically based technologies, it's evolved to take into account renewable energy sources, and the electrification of our homes.

But what does it really mean for homeowners? In this article I'll break down the key categories of home-based electro-tech, how to maximise performance and functionality, and what you need to consider if you're designing a self build, renovating or extending your home.

What are the main domestic electro-tech categories?

Although electro-tech has evolved to mean almost any electrically based technology that we use in our homes, there are four main categories that stand out as ones that demonstrate the move towards a different style of home:

• Renewable energy supply: the use of green energy suppliers and the installation of solar panels to generate your own energy on site
• Heating source: the use of heat pumps instead of gas and oil boilers
• Smart homes: management of energy use through smart meters, battery storage and better controls, such as smart heating systems
• Electric vehicles: the switch away from fossil fuels to electricity by using electric vehicles, rather than diesel and petrol models

Although each of them serves different purposes – and as I'll come on to explain, can operate independently – the over-arching single power supply and management is where the potential value can lie. But, it's also where the risks can become apparent if you don't properly design and specify your electro-tech home

Pros and cons of an electro-tech home

Aside from the ecological advantage of reducing the need for fossil fuels, one of the main advantages of electro-tech is that everything is connected back to your home distribution board. The fact it runs on one type of energy source, makes it potentially easier to control and manage more effectively.

Instead of juggling several supplies of power, such as gas, electric and even oil or LPG, the electricity supply coming into the home will then deliver energy and power to all parts of the home via one output source.

Even if you have solar PV panels then they too will be wired to a solar panel inverter which converts the direct current (DC) to a 230v alternating current (AC), which is also then connected to the distribution board.

A solar battery store will also be connected to the distribution board via an inverter – often the same one that manages the PV generation. Your EV charger will also be connected to the main supply and distribution board, although it could be done in a more complicated way.

In essence, you can picture the distribution board a bit like the central hub of a bicycle wheel where all the spokes – the electro-tech – join back to it.

Requirements for an efficient electro-tech set-up

On the flip side of the coin, however, the potential risk of electro-tech is that although the singular approach can streamline everything, making sure your home can handle it is another.

Most homes have a 230v single phase electricity supply and they will have a limited load capability, often 80Amps or 100Amps. If it is lower than that, then you should speak to your supplier, or the Distribution Network Operator (DNO), to see if you can get a bigger supply, as 100 Amps is about as low as you really want to go.

In real terms, this means that you can only run 18kW or 23kW total load at any one time. Exceed this and the home will overload and the supply will trip off.

To put the load vs supply into perspective, we need to look at what the likely maximum load could be in the home to help you understand what is required.

As an example, when considering just your kitchen appliances, an average oven uses 3kW, each plate on the hob is around 1.5kW, the washing machine (while heating up) uses 3 kW, a tumble dryer is between 1-5kW, the kettle 2kW and a microwave 1kW.

An air source heat pump will use between 2-5kW, the electric immersion in the hot water cylinder also draws 3kW, and an electric shower between 6kW and 8kW. An EV charger draws 7kW.

Then, as well as the bigger load appliances, you will also have a lot of background loads such as lights, computers, games, TV, chargers etc that will also add up.

If you use a combination of these appliances, plus background load and it all adds up to more than the load capacity (18kW to 23kW,) then the risk is the home electricity supply could overload and trip off.

The importance of smart home tech

Although none of the appliances and technologies actually need the other systems in order to work, it often makes sense to control them to work in tandem with each other.

As well as streamlining the amount of work the homeowner has to do to get each part working, adopting a smart home approach can also help prevent the biggest risk – overload on your electricity supply.

Many management software systems will manage the maximum load and prioritise what is most important. So for example, if it is important that the car gets charged then the software will turn off other, lower-priority appliances, or turn down the car charger output for the five minutes that the kettle is boiling. You set the priority; the software manages it.

However, there is still work to be done in this field, and most manufacturers make their own controls, often with their own logic and algorithms. It can therefore be difficult to find different technologies that can ‘talk’ to each other if they are made by different manufacturers.

It can often be enough to have simple controls that only turn appliances on or off, but in the case that the appliance can modulate, then you need the controls to be able to turn the appliance up and down rather than simply on or off.

As a result of the move towards electro-tech homes, it is becoming more common though that many manufacturers now have agreements with software creators that allow the different technologies to be fully managed by third party controls.

Preparing for an electro-tech home

The key trick to getting your home's electro-tech right, and functioning without problems, means knowing in advance how much power you will need to use.

As a home renovator or self builder, it is very important to know the full list of products that you would ultimately like to have in your home. This way, you can be sure to install a controls platform that supports all of them.

Don’t just think about now, think into the future – even if you think it is a very distant dream. Maybe you don’t yet have an electric vehicle, but it is on the radar for the next few years?

If so, choose an EV charger that will be able to be controlled by the same software. If you have solar power, make sure that the charger can also be left in stand-by mode so that the car can be automatically topped up if you have excess generation. Many car chargers also have the facility to connect CT clamps. These guard against overloading the home.

If you are designing a self build and need to arrange for power connection, you might also want to consider investigating the option of a three phase electricity supply. This will spread heavy electrical loads across three phases, rather than one, reducing the risk of overload.

While this will be more expensive to install, it could offer some protection for the future as the electrification of homes continues.

Don't assume battery storage solves the issue of overload

“But what if I have battery storage? Doesn't that make a difference,” I hear you ask.

Battery storage does not add to the overall maximum load of the home, and it also needs to be managed. The maximum load of a battery is also limited by the solar panel inverter. Why? Because the energy stored in the battery is also DC, so it too needs to be converted in order to be used in the home.

If the same inverter is used to convert the PV generation and the battery energy, then that is limited to the size of the PV panel array. So, if you have a typical PV installation of around 10 panels on your roof, then this will be around a 4kW maximum supply.

This basically means that you cannot use more than 4kW at any time. Any load above 4 kW will come from the grid, no matter how big the battery is.

Management is simple maths, but can mean you need to either set schedules, or remember to turn things on and off.

Let’s say you want to run the washing machine and the tumble dryer and they both draw 3 kW each and you have a 14kWh battery. In theory, this is enough to cover the 6kWh use of the appliances, but it runs through a 4kW inverter. Therefore, instead of running the 2 appliances together (drawing 6kW for 1 hour) you will need to schedule them to run one after the other (drawing 3kW over 2 hours) to maximise the energy use in the battery.

My final advice for electro-tech? As we get more and more ‘stuff’ in our homes, and we replace fossil fuels with electrically driven technologies, we need to be sure of two main things.

First, that we have enough energy to run what we need, and second, that all the systems and appliances we have can be optimised and controlled to meet our expectations. After all, there is no point in having all the electro-tech if any of it is not going to be used.

To dive deeper into the different elements of an electro-tech home, take a look at what I've changed since first installing a heat pump in 2018, and view my thoughts on whether the changes we are making can ever result in a zero energy bills home.

Following the government's announcement that they were overturning the ban on plug-in solar panels in the UK earlier this year, there has been little obvious development in terms of them becoming available to buy.

While Lidl confirmed they would be one of the first UK retailers to sell them, the fact that the panels, which originated in Europe, are not compatible with UK electricity systems has proved somewhat of a stumbling block.

However, this could be about to change, with the Government confirming a consultation process has been launched with industry leaders. This is with a view to developing an interim product specification to help resolve the current regulatory issues. The news, combined with a recent roundtable including most of the UK's leading retailers, means plug-in solar panels could be still make it into our homes in 2026.

What is the consultation process for?

At present, plug-in solar panels do not meet with the Plugs and Sockets etc Safety Regulations 1994 (PSSR), because as well as the the PSSR regulations, the Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations (2002) (ESQCR) also come into play and these require that electrical equipment meets British Safety Standards. However, under the current standards, electricity-generating products cannot be connected via a plug.

In lieu of permanent regulatory changes potentially taking some time to update, an interim product specification has been proposed, the aim of which would be to allow consumers to use plug-in solar panels sooner, as long as they met 'defined safety requirements.'

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is consulting with industry leaders on the process, and it is looking at how amendments to the PSSR and ESQCR, along with this 'fit-for-purpose' specification could be an interim solution to prevent any further delay.

What do retailers say?

While Lidl had previously been the only retailer to firmly acknowledge their plans to sell plug-in solar panels, the recent roundtable saw most of the UK's biggest retailers meet with Martin McCluskey MP, the current Minister for Energy Consumers.

Representatives from Currys, B&Q, Amazon, Lidl, Asda, B&Q, Currys, Screwfix and Wickes (a combined collective total of around 4,000 stores and strong online presence) heard how the plans could help homeowners benefit from the free electricity that solar panels generate.

There was praise all round from the retailers, all of whom welcomed the opportunity to be part of the plans to contribute to a greener UK.

John Boumphrey, UK & Ireland country manager at Amazon said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to make renewable energy more accessible to people around the UK. Amazon is the largest corporate buyer of carbon-free energy in the UK – we’ve invested in over 40 large scale solar and wind projects to date.

"Enabling households to generate their own power with self-install plug-in solar panels is a practical step that supports household budgets and delivering against net zero goals."

Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q also confirmed the retailer was in support of the plans for plug-in solar, saying, "We welcome the introduction of plug-in solar panels to the UK market, which will help households to generate their own energy and reduce their bills. This builds on our existing range of portable solar and battery solutions.

"We are working closely with government and suppliers to understand and help shape the guidance," he confirmed, "ensuring any products we offer are safe, compliant and straightforward to install. We look forward to making plug-in solar available to our customers as soon as possible."

Georgina Hall, corporate affairs director at Lidl GB, who had previously spoken in support of the plans confirmed they were continuing to back the government's "latest steps toward modernising regulations for ‘plug-and-play’ technology."

Michelle Gorringe-Smith, director of new categories at Currys, noted how important it is to get plug-in solar panels launched safely, and as soon as possible. "With energy bills continuing to rise, enabling the safe roll-out of these products will mark an important step for consumers across the UK – including the more than 80% of UK households that shop at Currys."

Where will plug-in solar panels be used?

Some of the best places to install plug-in solar panels will include balconies, sheds and other outdoor areas. Unlike roof-top solar panels which need a registered installer, these will simply be a domestic product that you can fit yourselves.

And, given the increasing number of heatwaves we are experiencing across the UK, the new plug-in panels could boost the amount of savings you make if you have an existing system, or provide you with an opportunity to share in the benefits of free electricity if you are unable to have a full solar panel system installed.

When will a decision on plug-in solar be made?

According to a government statement:

"Following the close of the consulation, DENZ will undertake analysis of responses received. This will inform the development of final policy decisions, including any amendments to legislation and the design of the Interim Product Standard.

"A summary of consultation responses will be published on GOV.UK via the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero website. Subject to the analysis and necessary approvals, this is expected by 22 July 2026.

"The government intends to move at pace following publication, with decisions on next steps and implementation to follow as soon as practicable, considering the need to ensure a robust, proportionate, and safe regulatory framework."

A new report published by the Climate Change Committee (CCC) has urged the government to take action to protect people from heat in their homes, as the world is on track to reach around 2°C of warming above pre-industrial levels by 2050.

The committee has highlighted eight key areas that need addressing – from investing in cooling solutions to keep people safe, to managing flood risk through careful development planning.

Baroness Brown, Chair of the Adaptation Committee, said, “Our lives, our landscapes and our homes are under increasing pressure from the changing climate. But we are not powerless. In an increasingly unstable world, being well adapted to climate change is fundamental to securing our food, energy and economic security."

What's in the report?

Keeping people cool

According to the report, there are around 1,400–3,000 heat-related deaths each year in heatwave periods. To stop this number rising to the predicted level of 3,000–10,000 by 2050 (and hopefully even lower it), the committee says the government must protect people from the heat.

In order to achieve this goal, the report recommends that new builds should be "designed to keep people cool from the outset", while natural shading and other low-cost passive cooling measures might also be sufficient.

With heatwaves expected to become hotter and longer, the committee suggests planning for more active cooling methods such as air conditioning, alongside low-cost passive measures. When retrofitting existing homes, both of these approaches are likely to be needed to keep temperature levels safe.

While the report recommends households install cooling systems, it addresses that additional support might be needed for those who are both heat vulnerable and low-income to make it more accessible.

By switching to a reliable and low-carbon electricity system, and using technologies such as heat pumps that can both heat and cool homes, the committee says this goal can be managed at “low cost and with minimal disruption”.

Shopping picks to keep you cool

Managing flood risk

The report also highlighted the importance of protecting properties from flooding through well-maintained defences and drainage, while noting that development in flood-prone areas needs to be managed "carefully" and that new construction should be "avoided where risks are not adequately reduced".

To prevent water damage to homes, it suggested lower-cost measures such as one-way valves on wastewater pipes, flood doors, barriers, and covering air bricks.

The report says: "A rapid rollout of property-level measures over the next five years in places that are already at risk of flooding could cut average annual flood-related losses by up to half. In other places, there will need to be challenging conversations with communities where flood protection is not viable, especially with rising sea levels."

Avoiding water shortages

With water scarcity on the rise, the report recommended that all new homes should be water efficient from the get-go.

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said, "We are acting to protect people and places from the impacts of climate change that are already being felt across the UK – from flooding to extreme heat and drought.

"We have already invested a record £2.65 billion to repair and build flood defences, protecting tens of thousands of homes and businesses, and have deployed the largest nature-friendly farming budget in history to support sustainable food production and security.

"Robust, independent science is essential and we will carefully consider the Climate Change Committee's latest recommendations to drive further action.”

If you're struggling with the heat, you may find our guides on how to keep a house cool and prevent overheating at home useful.

Plug-in solar panels could soon offer homeowners a simpler way to generate electricity without installing a full rooftop solar system.

But where they are placed around the home could make a major difference to how much power they generate and how safely they operate.

A renewables electrical engineer has revealed the locations most likely to work best as plug-in solar is set to be legalised in the UK.

1. Balconies could become one of the best locations

According to Kian Milroy, a renewables electrical engineer at Heatable, balconies are likely to become the most popular place to install plug-in solar panels, particularly where they receive direct sunlight for large parts of the day.

He said: “Balconies are likely to be one of the main use cases, especially for flats, as south-facing or west-facing balconies can still generate useful power.”

Kian explained that south-facing balconies are likely to produce the best results overall, although east- and west-facing spaces may still generate meaningful electricity depending on shading levels and exposure to sunlight throughout the day.

2. Garden walls, sheds and garages offer more flexibility

For houses, Kian Milroy suggests outdoor structures such as sheds, garages, garden walls and outbuildings provide greater ability to adjust positioning for plug-in solar systems.

“Sheds, garages and garden spaces may offer more flexibility, particularly if the solar panels can be angled towards the sun," he explains.

Unlike fixed rooftop solar PV systems, plug-in solar panels can potentially be mounted in a wider range of locations, as they are not permanently fixed, allowing households to adjust positioning based on sunlight levels and available outdoor space.

3. Patios, terraces and external walls may also work

Kian Milroy also highlighted patios, terraces and external walls as possible installation areas, provided the panels can be mounted securely and receive enough sunlight during the day.

He said the key consideration is avoiding “shaded, unstable or exposed spots where panels could become unsafe”, adding that households should wait for approved products and clear UK safety guidance before installing plug-in solar systems once they become legal.

The engineer noted that placement will ultimately depend on a balance between sunlight exposure, structural safety and safe electrical connection points around the home.

Kian Milroy’s comments highlight how plug-in solar panels could allow homeowners to use a much wider range of spaces for electricity generation beyond the roof itself.

From balconies and garden structures to patios and external walls, the technology's effectiveness will depend heavily on careful placement and safe installation planning once it is introduced in the UK.

Homeowners planning to install an electric vehicle charger must now meet specific eligibility rules and follow a strict approval process to access government support worth up to £500.

The scheme runs until March 2027 and is designed to support domestic charging installations, alongside new electric rules, but funding depends heavily on property setup and the correct procedural steps.

Missing any requirement before installation could result in losing access to the grant entirely.

What is the £500 EV charger grant?

The £500 EV charger grant is an updated version of an existing government scheme that previously offered around £350 per installation.

It is part of a long-running programme designed to support the rollout of home EV charging infrastructure, but was revised in 2026 to increase funding while tightening eligibility and focusing support on more complex installation scenarios.

Rather than a new scheme, it is a continuation of existing support with updated funding levels, revised criteria and a narrower focus.

Who qualifies for the EV grant?

Eligibility is now targeted and depends mainly on the type of property and how the charger will be installed.

Homeowners may qualify if they:

• Do not have a driveway or garage
• Rely on on-street parking
• Require additional installation work, such as pavement crossings or protected cabling systems
• Have an eligible EV (owned, leased or on order)

The scheme is aimed at households where installing a charger is not straightforward, rather than homes with simple private driveway installations.

The type of vehicle does not affect eligibility in terms of brand or model, as long as it is an eligible electric or plug-in vehicle suitable for home charging under the scheme rules.

What you must do before installation

Even if eligible, homeowners must follow a strict process before any installation work begins.

To qualify for the grant, homeowners must:

• Use an OZEV-approved installer
• Ensure their installer handles required grid notification and approvals
• Confirm all equipment meets approved technical standards
• Begin installation only after formal approval is given

Nigel King, Group Operations Director at Eurocar Group, also highlighted a commonly overlooked requirement: “Before installing any charging points at your home… you first need to submit an Energy Networks Association application to your Distribution Network Operator (DNO)… so they can confirm you have the correct equipment and setup.”

He added: “If this is not carried out… you might not be covered on your house insurance if something goes wrong.”

Installers typically manage much of the paperwork, but responsibility for ensuring the correct process is followed remains essential from the outset.

With the scheme closing on 31 March 2027, homeowners have a limited window to get both approval and installation completed in time.

While the £500 EV grant increases available support, it does not simplify the process – meaning those who delay or skip early approval steps are the most likely to miss out entirely.

Plug-in solar panels are being promoted as a simple way for households to generate their own electricity without installing full rooftop panels, following moves to legalise the technology in the UK.

But specialists say the reality is more complicated, with home suitability depending heavily on the condition of a property’s electrical system.

As interest grows in these small-scale solar products, experts are urging households to check their wiring before planning to install plug-in solar systems.

Not every home is automatically suitable

Plug-in solar devices are designed to feed electricity into a home via a standard socket, but that simplicity can mask underlying electrical risks.

According to Kian Milroy, Renewables Electrical Engineer at Heatable, suitability varies significantly from home to home: “Some UK homes will be ready for plug-in solar, but it would be wrong to assume every home is automatically suitable just because the product plugs in.”

He adds that age alone is not a reliable indicator of safety or readiness: “An older home that has had its wiring updated, has a modern consumer unit and has been properly maintained may be in a much better position than a newer property with poor alterations or questionable DIY electrical work."

Electrical standards in UK homes vary widely depending on upgrades, maintenance history, and whether systems include modern protections such as updated consumer units and residual current devices (RCDs), which are designed to reduce the risk of electric shock and overload.

Warning signs in homes

Before connecting plug-in solar or any significant electrical load, Kian recommends checking for signs that a system may not be safe or could need rewiring.

Common warning indicators include:

• Loose, damaged, or cracked sockets
• Scorch marks or discolouration around outlets
• Plugs or sockets that feel unusually warm
• Circuit breakers that trip frequently
• Old-style fuse boxes rather than modern consumer units
• Overloaded extension leads
• Uncertainty about when the wiring was last inspected

Kian Milroy warns that uncertainty itself can be a red flag: “If someone looks at their home and thinks, ‘I’m not sure when any of this was last checked,’ that’s probably the point to slow down and speak to an electrician before assuming any plug-in product is automatically fine.”

Electrical safety bodies in the UK generally recommend periodic inspection of domestic wiring, particularly in older properties or homes that have undergone multiple DIY modifications.

Who plug-in solar actually benefits

Even in homes that are electrically safe, plug-in solar is not a universal solution. The systems typically generate modest amounts of electricity and are best suited to reducing daytime usage rather than powering an entire household.

Households that are at home during the day – such as remote workers, retirees, or families with young children – are more likely to benefit, as they can directly use the electricity being generated.

Kian Milroy says the technology has a clear but limited role: “Plug-in solar has a role to play because it gives more people access to solar, especially those who might not be able to install a full rooftop system. But it can’t solve every problem.”

While plug-in solar offers a lower-cost entry point into renewable energy, experts stress that realistic expectations and safe electrical conditions are essential before installation.

Installing EV chargers is now more complicated than ever, with one leading installer stating, "The era of the simple EV install is over."

New electric rules affecting EV chargers in UK homes have come into force in 2026, changing how installations are designed, assessed and approved.

The updates are reportedly placing greater emphasis on safety, system capacity and how chargers integrate with a home’s wider electrical setup, which is making installations more complex for installers and homeowners.

EV charger installations more complicated than ever

The changes in wiring rules reflect a shift away from straightforward EV charger installations toward more complex system-based design.

Installers must now consider load management, circuit protection, earthing and how the charger interacts with the wider electrical system in the home. Chris Moniz, CEO of Volta EV, says the industry is moving away from simple installations toward integrated energy systems.

"The era of the simple EV install is over," said Chris. "With Amendment 4 [of the Wiring Regulations] now in play, the margin for error has vanished. We’re moving away from simple ‘box-on-a-wall’ deployments toward complex, system-level energy management."

This means installations now require more planning and greater technical precision than before.

Homes may need upgrades before installation is possible

One consequence of the new approach is that some homes will require electrical upgrades before an EV charger can be safely installed.

This is particularly relevant for older properties where existing wiring or consumer units may not be designed for higher sustained electrical loads.

Instead of being a simple add-on, EV charging is increasingly dependent on the condition and capacity of the existing home electrical system. This adds a layer of assessment before installation can even take place.

However, some homeowners may qualify for a £500 grant for EV chargers if they meet certain criteria to offset some of these costs.

Warnings that margin for error has narrowed

The key concern raised by Chris Moniz is that installations are becoming less forgiving.

As EV chargers become part of wider, interconnected home energy systems, mistakes in design or installation can have greater consequences. Moniz warned that under the new rules, the industry is operating with a significantly reduced margin for error.

For homeowners, this means EV charging is now being treated as part of a broader electrical upgrade rather than a simple appliance installation.

Heat pump tumble dryers are expected to become more widely used in UK homes under proposals that would see traditional condenser tumble dryers phased out.

The new efficiency rules form part of wider net-zero policies and could effectively act as a ban on conventional models over time.

The shift is expected to influence the appliances available to homeowners when replacing tumble dryers, as well as how laundry spaces are designed and used in the home.

What are the proposed changes?

The proposals form part of wider government plans to update ecodesign and energy efficiency standards for household appliances.

Under the draft measures, traditional condenser tumble dryers would be phased out over time, with future market access expected to favour higher-efficiency alternatives such as heat pump models.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has stated that the reforms are intended to reduce household energy consumption and support wider decarbonisation goals across domestic appliances.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has linked the proposals to broader energy system reform, stating: “The era of fossil fuel security is over, and the era of clean energy security must come of age.”

The policy aligns with similar efficiency frameworks already operating in the European Union, where appliance standards have increasingly shifted towards lower-energy technologies.

Implications for homeowners

Heat pump tumble dryers are expected to become more common as appliance standards shift towards lower-energy technologies, influencing replacement options in future homes.

For homeowners, this means heat pump models are likely to replace traditional condenser tumble dryers in the market increasingly.

Heat pump models operate at lower temperatures, which reduces energy use but typically leads to longer drying cycles. This may affect day-to-day laundry routines.

A key practical change is installation flexibility, as heat pump tumble dryers do not require external venting and can be sited in a wider range of utility spaces, kitchens or apartments.

While not directly regulated under Building Regulations, appliance energy use is included in SAP calculations for new homes, meaning more efficient models can contribute to overall dwelling EPCs.

Best heat pump tumble dryers

Why have the changes been made?

The proposed changes are part of the government’s wider strategy to reduce household energy use and support net zero targets.

Heat pump tumble dryers typically operate at around 50°C, compared with around 70–75°C for conventional condenser tumble dryers, using a heat-recycling system that reduces electricity consumption. This higher efficiency is the basis for their promotion in updated appliance standards.

By encouraging lower-energy technologies, policymakers aim to reduce overall domestic electricity demand and cut carbon emissions associated with household appliance use. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero estimates that heat pump tumble dryers could save households up to £910 over a 20-year lifespan through reduced tumble dryer running costs.

The changes also align UK appliance efficiency standards more closely with existing ecodesign rules in other markets, including the European Union, where similar efficiency-based requirements have already been introduced for domestic tumble dryers.

However, the scale of change delivered will be determined by how the policy is implemented and the speed at which manufacturers and homeowners respond to the transition.

Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus Go customers are facing price increases from 1 May 2026, with some saying they were given just 10–11 days’ notice of the change.

The tariffs are popular with electric vehicle owners for offering cheaper overnight charging electricity, but both off-peak rates and standing charges are set to rise.

Octopus Energy says the energy price rises are allowed under variable tariff rules and driven by “ongoing global volatility”.

What is Octopus Go?

Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus Go are smart electricity tariffs designed mainly for electric vehicle owners.

They offer cheaper overnight electricity for a set number of hours – typically five or six – to encourage off-peak charging of EVs at home. The same discounted rate can also apply to other household electricity use during those hours, depending on the tariff.

Intelligent Octopus Go also uses smart charging to automatically schedule EV charging when electricity is cheapest or lowest carbon intensity.

Because usage varies widely between households, overall costs depend heavily on how much charging is done overnight versus daytime use.

What the Octopus Go price increases are

Customers were informed on 20 April that prices will rise from 1 May, affecting both Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus Go tariffs.

The main change is an increase in the off-peak unit rate, alongside a rise in standing charges of around 52p per month on average, according to customer communications.

Octopus Energy has said the increases reflect “ongoing global volatility”, while noting that the tariffs remain among the cheapest available for EV charging. The company added that variable tariffs can move up or down depending on wholesale costs and policy charges.

Customer reaction and Martin Lewis response

Some Octopus Go and Intelligent Octopus Go customers have expressed frustration after receiving what they say was around 10–11 days’ notice of the price changes coming into effect on 1 May.

Several said the timing was confusing, particularly as rates had only recently been reduced earlier in April.

One customer told the company they were “shocked with the short notice”, while another said the change felt “too quick after the last price drop”, according to messages shared with the supplier.

"Two weeks notice of change. And they say they review every three months. Also wiping out the Government's levy and costing us more than before" another person commented on X.

Writing on X in response to a customer query about the change, MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis said: “Doesn't sound great, but just to be technical. Octopus Go is not a price capped tariff so it didn't move due to drop in Price Cap. It dropped due to the removal of some govt policy costs from energy bills (which is the same reason the cap moved but still they're separate).”

His comments highlight that Octopus Go is a variable tariff, meaning prices can change outside of the energy price cap system depending on supplier costs and policy charges.

Octopus Energy refused to comment specifically on customers concerns when contacted, but they have said the changes are permitted under variable tariff rules and that, despite the increases, the EV tariffs remain among the cheapest available for overnight charging.

Four people have been arrested as part of a £44m fraud investigation linked to the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme.

Although the scheme, which required energy suppliers to fund home insulation and heating upgrades for lower-income households, has now closed, investigators believe some firms may have claimed payment for work that was never completed.

The case adds to the growing scrutiny of retrofit insulation programmes in recent years.

What the £44m fraud investigation is about

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO), working with the National Crime Agency, carried out coordinated raids across England, arresting four individuals on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud.

The investigation centres on claims that companies submitted invoices for insulation work under ECO4 that was either not carried out or only partially completed.

Numerous other firms are being examined in connection with contracts between 2022 and 2024. Authorities believe energy suppliers may have been defrauded of up to £44m through false or inflated claims.

SFO director Graham McNulty said: “This scheme was designed to reduce carbon emissions, help households cut costs and stay warm – instead, in many cases we suspect little or no work was done.”

Wider concerns over insulation schemes

The ECO4 programme has previously faced criticism for repeated failures, including inconsistent installation quality, poor workmanship, and limited oversight across a fragmented supply chain of contractors and subcontractors.

Industry commentary and homeowner reports have highlighted cases of insulation being fitted incorrectly, unsuitable measures being installed, and disputes over whether work met required standards.

MPs have also raised concerns in recent years about how effectively schemes like ECO4 were monitored, particularly given the number of separate organisations involved in delivery and compliance checks.

What happens next

The investigation forms part of a wider crackdown on economic crime, with authorities urging installers, assessors and others involved in ECO4 projects to come forward with information.

Solicitor General Ellie Reeves said: “This scheme was meant to tackle fuel poverty and improve people’s homes. I am sickened by those who want to profit off the back of a scheme designed to help vulnerable people, and I’m confident the SFO’s investigation into allegations of substantial fraud will deliver the answers victims and the public deserve.”

The ECO4 scheme has now ended and is being replaced by the government’s Warm Homes Plan, which will continue funding energy efficiency upgrades such as insulation, solar panels and heat pumps.

Octopus Energy and Prosperity Group have announced plans for a major housing development in Cambridgeshire, where residents will not pay home energy bills for a decade.

The 300-home scheme will use solar panels, heat pumps and battery storage to generate and manage energy on site, with the first eco homes expected to be completed in 2028.

Octopus Energy says the project forms part of its wider ambition to scale up “Zero Bills” housing across the UK and internationally.

Octopus Energy expands Zero Bills programme

Octopus Energy’s “Zero Bills” tariff guarantees no household energy bills for between five and 10 years, provided homes are built with specified low-carbon technologies.

The company said it has already approved more than 6,000 homes through the programme across the UK and internationally, working with private and affordable housing developers. It also aims to deliver 100,000 Zero Bills homes by 2030.

Nigel Banks, Zero Bills Director at Octopus Energy, said: “We’re finding ourselves in yet another energy crisis, and households are looking for ways to protect themselves from unpredictable energy prices. Living without a home energy bill is no longer a distant ambition – it’s a reality thanks to our Zero Bills tariff.”

Aims to meet demand for efficient homes

Prosperity Group said the scheme reflects growing demand for energy-efficient housing and the need to future-proof developments against changing regulations.

Joe Billingham, Chairman of Prosperity Group, said: “Our focus has always been on delivering high-quality, forward-thinking developments for both our investors and customers. Working with Octopus Energy allows us to integrate cutting-edge technology that not only enhances the living experience but also supports long-term investment performance.”

He added that tighter EPC standards and future regulatory requirements are pushing developers to integrate low-carbon systems from the outset.

What are Octopus's overall plans?

Homes in the Wisbech development will include solar generation, heat pumps and battery storage designed to reduce reliance on the grid and manage energy use locally.

Excess electricity generated on-site will be stored for later use, helping smooth demand and reduce exposure to energy price fluctuations.

Octopus Energy has set a target of delivering 100,000 Zero Bills homes globally by 2030, as it expands the model across the UK and other markets including Germany, France and New Zealand.

The company says the approach is intended to support both emissions reduction goals and household energy affordability over the long term.

When it comes to the recent introduction of the new Simpler Recycling rules, I'm not really sure why anyone would object.

Perhaps it's because where I live in Wales we've been recycling waste separately for some time, and it doesn't seem that big of a deal. But, even if familiarity has been a factor in this, the reasons I'm pro-recycling lay deeper than that.

In a world where some of the negative environmental changes we experience can be linked to mass production, over-consumption and a rise in packaged products, I don't believe it's asking much of us to try and at least reduce the level of waste that goes to landfill.

Recycling is a must, not a maybe

Yes, I've heard all the arguments and backlash against recycling, and the comments about how councils should be responsible for sorting waste, how some recycling goes to landfill if it's considered contaminated, and how it's not even happening in some regions until later in the year. All of which are naturally making people question the changes.

And, it's not that I don't understand these views, or disagree with them all entirely, it's just that I think we all need to stand up and take a bit of responsibility for our own actions, before we jump on the negative bandwagon.

Personally, I don't believe someone else should sort my rubbish for me. After all, I'm the one that chooses to shop online, buy packaged food and drink from glass bottles that get disposed of once used. It should therefore be me that takes responsibility for this.

I could use a refill store where you take your own containers to stock up on dried food and laundry products. I could find an allotment, or start my own vegetable garden to save buying packaged produce from stores. Or, I could refuse to shop online so that less cardboard enters my home.

But, the reality is, I don't do any of those things, despite telling myself I should and will. And neither do a vast number of homeowners. As adults, we consume at our own free will, and in doing so, we should be prepared to take responsibility for this.

Doing my bit to help the environment

I'm pretty sure most people have felt a pang of guilt when they see ocean creatures or animals caught in plastic and waste packaging, so imagine if the world's population recycled 10 more items each a week to avoid more landfill. It doesn't take a genius to work out that this would have an impact on the planet.

I know recycling isn't a magic fix to the plastic crisis or the issue of landfill but it's a start. And as recycling becomes more ingrained, companies might start choosing more sustainable packaging, governments might do more to prevent climate change, and all of us might make more environmentally-friendly choices.

But that's the point. We all need to do something to help reduce the problem, and if all that's being asked of me is some extra time each week to make sure I put the correct items in the right bins, I just don't feel it's that big of an ask.

Start generating less waste with these ideas

Do I think more could be done? Absolutely

I'm not suggesting that the process has been polished to perfection before being rolled out. And no, the measures don't suit every type of home or homeowner, but rarely does one rule suit all.

I live in a flat with no outdoor space for large bins, so have had to find ways of managing all the separate types of waste I need to dispose of. But, with adjustments to how you manage your waste, and time spent arming yourself with the knowledge of what your local council rules are – rather than making the mistake of assuming it's one rule fits all – it's really not that complicated.

Yes we pay a lot in council tax, and yes, who knows if extra waste collection charges will apply in the future, but right now, there are far bigger problems in the world that keep me awake at night. Having to spend longer sorting my rubbish out isn't one of them.

Here at Homebuilding & Renovating, we are however trying to help you navigate this new territory, so if still aren't sure what waste goes where, take a look at our handy guides to what can be recycled in your garden waste, what to do with items you can no longer recycle and check out these ideas for wheelie bin storage to prevent your bins from becoming an eyesore.

And, above all else, if you aren't sure what is relevant in your area, go to your local council's website to understand the new Simpler recycling rules.

New electrical standards coming into force on 15 April 2026 will change how home battery systems are installed across the UK.

The update to the building regulation BS 7671, published by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the British Standards Institution (BSI), introduces tighter rules on where batteries can safely be located.

Lofts and other high-risk areas are now excluded in an effort to improve fire safety and access.

What the new rules say

The new electric rules are set out in Amendment 4 to BS 7671:2018, the UK’s main wiring regulations, which are jointly published by the IET and BSI through the national wiring committee JPEL/64.

The updated guidance introduces a new dedicated section on stationary battery storage systems, including solar batteries, and sets out stricter requirements for their installation.

In practical terms, the rules state that home battery systems should not be installed in loft spaces or escape routes, such as stairways or hallways, where risk is considered higher and access for maintenance or emergency isolation is more difficult.

The update also introduces clearer expectations around safe installation conditions, including ventilation, physical access, and safe isolation points for maintenance.

Why the rules are changing

The revisions are largely driven by safety concerns linked to lithium-ion battery technology, which is now widely used in home energy storage systems.

The IET and BSI-backed standard focuses on reducing the risk of thermal runaway, a condition where battery cells overheat and can potentially ignite.

Lofts are considered unsuitable for several reasons highlighted in industry guidance aligned with BS 7671:

• High temperatures in roof spaces can increase battery stress
• Limited access can delay detection of faults or fires
• Escape routes increase the safety risk if a fire occurs
• Fire spread can be faster in loft spaces due to timber structures and insulation materials

Industry guidance accompanying the standard also stresses the need for batteries to be installed in locations where they can be safely isolated, inspected and maintained.

Where batteries can now be installed

While loft installations are no longer acceptable under the updated guidance, home battery systems can still be installed in a range of safer, more accessible locations.

The standards point towards installations in:

• Ground floor utility rooms
• Garages or dedicated plant areas
• External walls in suitable weatherproof enclosures
• Outbuildings where access and ventilation requirements are met

The key requirement is that systems must be installed in accessible, ventilated locations that do not compromise escape routes and allow safe maintenance and isolation.

In practice, this means homeowners and installers will need to plan battery placement more carefully, rather than treating loft spaces as a default storage location.

As household energy costs continue to bite and global tensions in the Middle East disrupt markets, many UK families are bracing for another round of price rises later this year.

With bills expected to climb to some of their highest levels from July, consumers face price rises on top of already high living expenses, prompting fresh debate over whether and how the government should step in.

Against this backdrop, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has outlined plans that signal a clear shift from blanket support, and consumer champion Martin Lewis has weighed in with his own analysis and predictions on what homeowners should expect next.

Reeves announces support 'for those who need it most'

In a statement to Parliament, Reeves stressed that support for households hit by rising energy costs must be balanced with long‑term fiscal responsibility.

She said: “Contingency planning is taking place for every eventuality so that we can keep costs down for everyone and provide support for those who need it most, acting within our ironclad fiscal rules.”

That approach marks a departure from the universal support schemes of the past and instead focuses on targeted help for vulnerable households.

Labour ministers have backed expanding the powers of regulators like the Competition and Markets Authority to crack down on unfair energy price rises, such as for oil-heated homeowners whose costs doubled in days, a move aimed at stemming profiteering while market volatility persists due to geopolitical shocks.

Martin Lewis reacts to Reeves' announcement

On social media platform X, Martin Lewis outlined the two “domestic energy models” the government could use to intervene, urging readers to consider past approaches.

He reminded followers of the Energy Price Guarantee under Liz Truss - a blanket cap on unit costs that limited bills to around £2,500 a year but was extremely costly for the taxpayer - and contrasted it with the more targeted support packages used later, including flat grants and top‑ups for low‑income households.

Lewis’s commentary reflects a focus on cost‑efficiency and fairness; he has previously welcomed measures that shift costs off bills and into general taxation as a way to deliver concrete cuts to household energy costs - for example, urging that savings from cuts to green levies be passed on to consumers, including those on fixed tariffs.

He has also noted in recent MoneySavingExpert analysis that changes to standing charges and removal of certain policy costs from bills represent incremental relief, but stressed that “more needs to be done” for a meaningful reduction in household outgoings.

What Lewis predicts will happen

Drawing on these models Lewis predicts the government will focus on targeted support rather than a universal energy price cap, echoing Reeves’s goal of helping “those who need it most.”

He warns that while vulnerable households may see meaningful relief, middle‑income and high‑usage homes could get only modest savings.

“Targeted help may ease pressures for those most at risk of fuel poverty, but middle-income and high-usage households might see more modest savings unless broader market reforms take effect, making energy efficiency measures and careful budgeting increasingly critical,” Lewis said.

This approach could include grants, rebates, and small structural changes to bills, but won’t provide the dramatic cuts of previous blanket schemes. Broader reforms and stronger regulation, Lewis adds, will be key to keeping energy costs stable in the future.

The UK government has announced that plug‑in solar panels will be available in shops “within months”, marking a new step in making renewable energy more accessible to households.

The panels are small, low-cost units that can be connected directly to a home’s mains socket, allowing households to generate electricity without specialist installation. Retailers, including Lidl are reported to be working with the government and manufacturers to bring the technology to the UK market soon.

Homebuilding & Renovating has learned that while Lidl is exploring selling the panels, the sale is not yet confirmed, but the retailer sees it as a potential way to help families manage energy costs and support net-zero ambitions.

Government pushes plug‑in solar to shop shelves fast

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said plug‑in solar panels will be in UK shops “within months” as part of its wider clean energy strategy.

This comes after the government announced last week they were legalising the sale of plug-in solar panels, despite previous concerns over safety.

Officials said the move is intended to help households cut energy bills and reduce reliance on volatile global fossil fuel markets. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “Whether through solar panels fitted as standard on new homes or making it possible for people to purchase plug‑in solar in shops, we are determined to roll out clean power so we can give our country energy sovereignty.”

Retailers such as Lidl and Amazon, alongside manufacturers including EcoFlow, are reported to be working with the government to bring the panels to UK shelves. The government has confirmed that panels will appear in stores as early as this summer.

Lidl confirms ‘plug‑and‑play’ plans

Homebuilding & Renovating has learned that Lidl is exploring the possibility of selling plug‑in solar panels in Great Britain, but the sale is not yet confirmed.

In a statement, Georgina Hall, corporate affairs director at Lidl GB, said: “At Lidl GB, we are committed to making sustainable living affordable for everyone and we welcome the Government’s move to modernise regulations in the UK. Updating the regulatory landscape for this ‘plug‑and‑play’ technology is a positive step towards empowering British households to manage their energy costs and support the nation’s net‑zero ambitions.”

The statement underscores Lidl’s interest in bringing accessible renewable technology to mainstream consumers, though no launch date or pricing has been confirmed.

How it fits with wider policy moves

The plug‑in solar initiative is part of a wider government effort, including the Future Homes Standard, which requires the all new homes in England to be built with solar panels and low-carbon heating systems such as heat pumps.

Ministers have linked these measures to improving energy security amid global pressures, including conflict in the Middle East.

A Government spokesperson said that household access to easy-to-use solar products at shops could complement broader clean energy goals and provide families with a way to reduce electricity drawn from the grid, helping lower bills and carbon emissions.

The UK government has confirmed that the long‑awaited Future Homes Standard will now take effect from March 2028, giving builders more time but cementing tougher requirements for new housing.

Under the updated rules, all new homes in England will need to be fitted with heat pumps or other low‑carbon heating systems and be built with solar panels as standard – part of a drive to slash household emissions and energy costs.

The changes form part of broader clean energy measures aimed at improving energy security and reducing the UK’s reliance on imported fossil fuels.

1. Heat pumps for all new homes

One of the headline requirements in the Future Homes Standard is that new houses will be heated by low‑carbon systems instead of traditional gas boilers.

This will mean heat pumps, or connections to local heat networks, become the norm for space and hot water heating in new homes - helping homes cut emissions and run more efficiently.

The new rules are expected to reduce household energy use by around 75 % compared with homes built under older standards.

2. Solar panels as standard, including new plug‑in options

Under the updated Standard, the majority of new homes will be built with solar PV panels fitted as standard, sized in many cases to at least 40 % of the home’s floor area to maximise on‑site renewable generation.

In addition to rooftop solar panels on new homes, the government is also bringing plug‑in solar panels into UK shops within months - small, easy‑to‑install solar units that households can plug into a mains socket to offset electricity use.

These portable panels, already common in parts of Europe, are part of wider efforts to make clean energy more accessible and reduce bills for existing homes too.

3. Stronger energy efficiency and performance standards

The Future Homes Standard raises the bar on energy performance across the board.

New homes will be constructed with much higher levels of insulation, tighter airtightness, and more efficient building fabrics so heating and electricity demand is minimised from the start.

Draft guidance indicates external walls could achieve U‑values of around 0.26 W/m²·K, roofs around 0.16 W/m²·K, floors around 0.18 W/m²·K, and windows about 1.6 W/m²·K, while air permeability may be limited to roughly 8 m³/h·m² at 50 Pa.

These improved performance standards complement the requirements for heat pumps and solar, making new homes genuinely low‑carbon and easier to run over their lifetime.

Looking ahead

The Future Homes Standard will mark a major shift in how new homes are built in England, with heat pumps, solar panels, and tighter, better-insulated building fabrics becoming standard features.

While the rules set clear targets for energy performance and carbon reduction, it remains to be seen how effectively they will cut household energy bills or reduce emissions in practice, especially given variations in construction quality and real-world usage.

The coming years will show whether these measures deliver on their promise to make homes greener and more energy-efficient.

UK households are bracing for a significant energy price rises this summer as analysts at Cornwall Insight forecast the energy price cap for July‑September 2026 could reach nearly £1,973, one of the highest levels in recent years outside the worst of the previous energy crisis.

That would represent a jump of more than £330 compared with the current cap of £1,641 for April–June, which itself reflected a recent fall in prices.

The projected surge is being tied to volatility in global gas and oil markets following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Experts predict 'notably higher price cap'

Analysts at the independent energy consultancy Cornwall Insight calculated their latest forecast using wholesale market price data as of 19 March 2026, estimating the Default Tariff Cap – the annualised cap for a typical household using 11,500 kWh of gas and 2,700 kWh of electricity – at £1,972.53 for July–September 2026.

“Our model shows the potential for a notably higher price cap if current market trends continue,” Cornwall Insight said in its recent commentary.

Although this figure is based on forward wholesale prices rather than final regulatory data, it highlights how global pressures are impacting domestic energy costs.

How large of a rise will this be?

The current energy price cap set by Ofgem for the period 1 April–30 June 2026 is £1,641 for a typical dual‑fuel household paying by direct debit – down from £1,758 in the January–March 2026 quarter.

The average costs are:

• Electricity: £882
• Gas: £759

The July forecast of £1,972.53 represents a £331 increase overall:

• Electricity rises by £72.46 to £954.46
• Gas rises by £259.07 to £1,018.07

If Cornwall Insight’s July forecast holds, the new cap would be £331 higher per year than this current level, meaning households on standard variable tariffs could see their bills rise sharply.

Where would this price hike rank historically?

While the projected July cap would be one of the highest in recent years, it remains below the record peak reached during the 2022–23 energy crisis, when the typical annual cap soared to around £3,500–£4,000 due to global gas price shocks following the Russia–Ukraine conflict.

Analysts note that the July 2026 forecast reflects a return to higher costs driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, rather than an extreme energy crisis.

“Although this isn’t the absolute peak we’ve seen historically, a cap approaching £2,000 still represents a significant burden for many households,” Cornwall Insight added.

Observing how global wholesale energy prices evolve before May will be critical, as Ofgem finalises the official July–September price cap based on data over the preceding three months.

Anyone who has been researching energy efficiency for their new home will have become used to the term ‘fabric first,’ as this is still very much the best method for achieving high energy efficiency levels.

When it comes to zero bills, the less energy you need, the easier it is to draw it all from renewables and remove your reliance on the pay-for grid. But, is this achievable by retrofitting an existing home?

If you are building a new home from scratch, the goal of achieving a very high performance fabric is a little less complex, as you're not dealing with an existing structure that is complicated, unknown and very often expensive to treat.

But, when renovating, it's often trickier. That said, once you have treated the fabric of the home as best as you can, that is when you can get an energy requirement calculation and determine which technologies are best suited to delivering comfort to the home, and how close to ‘zero’ you can actually get.

What does zero energy bills really mean?

Zero bills can be defined in a number of ways. Having absolutely no direct running costs may be the initial understanding of the term, and it is true to say that if we put enough solar panels and batteries on a home then we could potentially have a home that had zero bills.

However, the capital cost would be very high, so the question is, should this calculation also include replacement cost of equipment, as this would then require the home to generate an income that was sufficient to cover capital replacement?

The more common use of the term zero bills has usually involved some form of offset. This can be referred to as ‘Net Zero’. The home generates enough energy to cover its use in a fixed period, which is usually a year. The generation will be greater in summer, and the use is greater in winter, but on average they cancel each other out. This can be calculated on an energy used basis, or on a financial cost basis.

It's also common to hear of performance targets such as Passivhaus in relation to Net Zero or zero bills. These are much more achievable on a new build. The retrofit equivalent of Passivhaus is EnerPHit which has certain details that are different, due to the fact that some things simply cannot feasibly be achieved on an existing building.

EnerPHit is however still a very high standard, and as such many homeowners do not set the bar that high, due to budget, average home prices in the street, or simply due to the disruption and expected project duration. It is nonetheless important to know where the bar is being set.

Achieving zero energy bills in an existing home

Energy use is simple to calculate. If you use 10000kWh per year then you need to generate 10000kWh per year. Some purists say that if you use this calculation method you should generate around 20% more than you use to account for grid losses.

However, when we look at the financial cost, things get a bit more open to context. Zero bills in this context is often referred to as ‘cost neutral’ or ‘cost positive’ depending on if you generated more income than your energy bills cost.

Historically, the Feed in Tariff for energy generated on solar photovoltaic panels was many times higher than the actual cost per unit of imported electricity. Therefore the early adopters were earning around £2,200 a year tax free, when their annual energy bills were only around £1,200. This was cost positive.

But, because energy prices rose a lot quicker than inflation, and generation income revenue rates tumbled, it soon became the case that the generation income did not cover the cost of the energy bills. It then became more important for homeowners to find ways of using less energy in the home by insulating, draught-proofing and turning appliances and heating off, or down, when not required.

It also became very important to use any energy generated at the time it was generated. Careful consideration of energy management in the home became increasingly important.

Appliances such as washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers that could be set up to automatically operate during the day, are now standard for better managed homes. Battery storage systems have become more popular, especially as installation costs fall. The uptake of electric vehicles has also meant that excess energy generation can be stored in the vehicle battery.

All of these technologies, including the increased installation of heat pumps, are based on electricity. The collective term being used for all the electric based products being installed on our homes is ‘electro-tech’ and by deploying smart electro-tech into our homes, the management of energy use becomes easier.

How energy companies are encouraging zero bills

Octopus Energy has embraced the zero energy drive and launched – Octopus Energy Zero Bills Homes. With this scheme, the energy use of your home is calculated and the scheme will guarantee you have no bills for 10 years providing you install solar PV, solar battery storage, an air source heat pump and use an electric vehicle and let them manage it.

This is currently available on certain new build properties with various terms and conditions and fair use policies but Octopus Energy is planning to roll it out to include retrofitting in existing homes too.

I can only see this growing and other energy companies following suit. It’s the way homes are being developed now. We no longer fit industrial infrastructure to houses. We instead manage the homes as complete energy systems, which includes changing how, and when, we use energy.

In my view, zero bills is not a pipe-dream, it's real and it’s happening now. It is however easier to achieve if you have lower energy use to start with. The lower your energy use, the smaller your electro-tech, and therefore the lower your capital costs and the better your return on investment.

Achieving zero bills is not difficult, making it pay for itself though, requires careful planning and managed work.

To start your journey towards a zero energy bills life, you'll need to firstly understand how to work out your energy needs and choose the right renewables. Then, make sure you understand the key fabric first factors such as the best types of home insulation to ensure your home isn't leaking heat before you start.

Ofgem has issued a stern warning to Elon Musk’s company, saying it “will not hesitate” to use its enforcement powers if Tesla fails to meet its regulatory obligations in the UK.

The energy regulator confirmed that Tesla Energy Ventures Limited has been granted a licence to supply electricity to British homes, but emphasised the company will face the same obligations as all other suppliers.

The decision has ignited controversy among politicians and campaigners, who have raised concerns about the company’s role in critical infrastructure.

Controversy over Tesla’s UK energy plans

The granting of a licence to Tesla has prompted sharp political criticism.

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said the Government should intervene, tweeting that “Ed Miliband must step in and bar Tesla from holding an energy licence” and warning that “Elon Musk is a threat to our national security and clearly not a fit person to operate in our energy industry”.

"We can't have the lights go out because he's having a strop on X," he added.

Campaign group Best for Britain, which led opposition to the licence, said its supporters had raised what it called “real public concern” about giving Musk access to the UK’s energy supply, describing the decision as a “powergrab” and urging ministers to reverse it.

Supporters of the protest, which garnered over 18,000 signatures aiming to prevent the license being granted, highlighted Musk’s public statements and social media activity during the consultation process as reasons they believed he should not be entrusted with energy infrastructure.

What Tesla’s plans are for the UK energy market?

Tesla Energy Ventures’ new licence allows it to supply electricity to both domestic and non-domestic customers across England, Scotland and Wales following a seven‑month assessment by Ofgem.

Tesla has existing energy‑related operations, including its Powerwall home battery storage systems, and a similar retail electricity service in Texas that integrates solar panels, battery storage and grid services.

The UK licence allows Tesla to offer energy services that tie together its technology products with electricity supply, although the company has not publicly disclosed detailed plans for tariffs or rollout.

Tesla itself did not immediately provide a comment on Ofgem’s decision, but in other markets the company has spoken of its ambition to enable customers to “power your home, electric vehicle and community with low‑cost sustainable electricity”.

Ofgem’s response to the concerns over Tesla

Ofgem’s approval came with a clear message on oversight. The regulator said its detailed assessment found that Tesla Energy Ventures meets all statutory requirements to be licensed as an energy supplier, and that the firm will be “subject to the same binding obligations, monitoring and enforcement as all other suppliers from day one”.

An Ofgem spokesperson stressed that compliance will be monitored continuously and that the regulator “will not hesitate to use our powers where standards are not met”.

These powers include the ability to revoke a licence with only 30 days notice and to issue financial penalties under certain terms.

They added that consumers “remain firmly in control” with the freedom to choose their supplier and switch if they wish, reinforcing that protecting consumer choice is central to its approach.

Ofgem’s stance underlines that while new entrants are welcome in the competitive UK energy market, they must uphold regulatory standards and prioritise consumer protections, with enforcement action ready if those obligations are breached.

The government is to legalise plug-in solar panels for use in homes across the UK in response to the Middle East crisis.

Plug-in solar panels are compact, portable modules that homeowners can install themselves – without the need for an electrician – in gardens, on walls or balconies and plug straight into a mains socket.

The devices were previously banned for use in homes due to safety concerns, with a potential fire risk warning due to compatibility with UK electrical systems and ring mains. It is unclear how or if this will be addressed before the ban is lifted.

However, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband overturned the ban, saying these easy-to-use cheap devices could help families cut bills and strengthen their energy security compared to traditional rooftop solar panels.

It means families could potentially buy solar panels at the supermarket while doing their weekly shop. Supermarkets have yet to confirm if they will be stocking the cheap energy source when the ban is overturned.

Government announces plug-in solar plan

As part of a push to go “further and faster” in energy security, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero confirmed in a statement seen by Homebuilding & Renovating that plug-in solar will be made available for households in the UK for the first time.

These panels, already popular across Europe, are designed to be easy to install without professional electricians and can feed electricity directly into a home’s mains wiring.

“Global events demonstrate there’s not a moment to waste in our drive for clean power because there can be no energy security while we are so dependent on fossil fuels,” said Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. “We are bringing forward the next renewables auction and announcing that plug-in solar will be available for the first time in Britain.”

Alongside plug-in solar, the government is accelerating its Warm Homes Plan and renewables auctions, aiming to get clean energy into homes faster and provide practical savings for households.

Why was plug-in solar previously illegal?

Plug-in solar panels were previously restricted under UK electrical safety laws, primarily because connecting a generator directly to a home’s mains wiring without proper certification could risk fire or electrical shock.

Unlike professionally installed rooftop systems, plug-in panels bypass the need for a certified electrician, meaning there were no clear safety standards or regulatory approvals for domestic use.

A government spokesperson said in December 2025: "Plug-in solar panels are not permitted because they must comply with existing electrical safety and wiring standards, and the government has begun a safety review to determine how they can be deployed safely."

Why the ban on plug-in solar is being overturned

Plug-in solar offers a low-cost, DIY-friendly option for homeowners who want to start generating their own electricity.

It’s particularly appealing for those with small gardens or outdoor wall space, where installing a full rooftop system might be expensive or complicated. By reducing reliance on the grid, these small systems can help cut electricity bills immediately, while contributing to national energy resilience.

Adam Bastock, founder of People, Planet, Pint, highlighted the convenience: “You can plug them straight into your wall. Buy a solar panel from a supermarket, hang it somewhere with sunlight, and plug it in like any other device. The biggest saving is there’s no need to get an electrician to install them.”

Cost comparison: Plug-in vs traditional solar panels

Using the latest Octopus Energy figures for professional rooftop systems, the differences become clear:

Plug-in solar

• Small systems (~400–800 W) cost roughly £280–£966 depending on capacity.
• Typical annual savings: £88–£210.
• Payback period: around 3–6 years, assuming you use the electricity as it’s generated.
• Low upfront cost, fast DIY installation, quick savings.
• Output is low compared to rooftop systems, won’t power a whole house, and safety standards are still being finalised.

Traditional rooftop solar

• A basic 2-panel system: £6,163 installed.
• Larger rooftop system with optional battery: £8,518–£9,691 (based on Octopus Energy figures)
• Potential annual savings: up to £600–£700+, with payback over 9–11 years.
• Higher energy generation can reduce most of a household’s bills, potentially earning through export Smart Export Guarantee tariffs.
• High upfront cost, requires scaffolding and certified installation, and longer lead time.

Therefore, plug-in solar is a quick, cheap entry point into home solar, while rooftop systems offer far larger savings and energy independence over the long term.

Plug-in solar panels to buy

Is plug-in solar a good DIY option?

For homeowners and renovators, plug-in solar could potentially be an attractive first step if safety concerns are addressed. This is because:

• It’s low-risk and quick to install, perfect for a garden wall or small outdoor space.
• Ideal for budget-focused renovations where a full rooftop system is impractical.
• While it won’t replace the savings of a professional rooftop install, combining it with insulation, heat pumps, or other energy upgrades can significantly reduce household bills.

However, UK regulations for plug-in solar are being finalised, so systems must meet wiring and certification standards before use.

Ultimately, plug-in solar gives UK homeowners a fast, affordable way to start generating clean energy, while full rooftop systems remain the best choice for those aiming for maximum savings and long-term energy independence.

The government has announced an immediate £50 million safety net for rural households struggling with soaring heating oil prices.

Families who rely on oil for their homes have faced sharp energy-price rises, with some paying double what they did just a month ago.

The funding aims to ensure vulnerable households can afford to top up their tanks and keep their homes warm as winter draws to a close.

Support for families in rural communities

Over £50 million will be made available to low-income households across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with funding distributed via local authorities and the Crisis and Resilience Fund.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves tried reassuring homeowners: “Heating oil prices have spiked sharply, and I know that for families in rural communities, that is a real and urgent problem. That’s why we’re putting over £50 million of support to help the people who need it most.”

The funding is targeted at areas most reliant on oil heating, helping households cover the cost of deliveries and access hot water even as prices remain high.

Tackling price hikes and delivery issues

Heating oil prices doubled last week, largely due to global conflicts affecting crude oil and kerosene markets. Many households must pay upfront lump sums for deliveries, and some have reported being left without oil entirely.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “This government is committed to fighting people’s corner in tackling cost of living pressures. With this investment, alongside new measures to protect customers against unfair practices, we are standing up for the British people.”

New protections for heating oil-reliant homeowners

Unlike gas and electricity, heating oil is not currently covered by a price cap, leaving households exposed to sudden spikes. The government plans to introduce stronger consumer protections, including:

• Enhanced delivery flexibility and a formal Priority Customers Register for vulnerable households.
• Greater price transparency and more repayment options for those facing hardship.
• Oversight by the Competition and Markets Authority to prevent unjustified price increases.
• Consideration of a new regulator or ombudsman to champion consumer rights.

Personal finance expert Martin Lewis has highlighted that some homeowners are being left without deliveries as prices double, emphasising the urgent need for these protections. Families experiencing immediate hardship are encouraged to contact their local authorities to access funding and support.

Wales has announced a major update to its building regulations, requiring all new homes to include a system for renewable electricity generation.

The move makes Wales the first part of the UK to implement such a widespread renewable energy mandate for residential buildings.

This article outlines exactly what the rules require and why it's not just for solar panels, which homes they apply to, and when the changes will take effect.

What is being required

Under the amended Part L of the Building Regulations 2010, any newly constructed dwelling or building containing a dwelling must install a system capable of generating renewable electricity on-site.

As the regulations state, a new requirement is being added so that “when a dwelling or a building containing a dwelling is erected, a system for renewable electricity generation must be installed on-site.”

While the law does not specifically mention solar panels, the requirement ensures that new homes contribute to on-site renewable energy generation. Alternative renewable systems may be allowed in cases where solar is technically impractical.

• Solar PV Panels – The most common and practical solution for homes
• Wind Turbines – Only feasible in sites with enough space and wind resource
• Micro-Hydro Systems – For homes with access to flowing water; very rare in typical housing

Which homes will this apply to

The requirement applies to all new dwellings built in Wales, including single-family homes, apartments, and mixed-use buildings with residential units.

The regulations state exceptions may exist where physical site conditions make it impossible to install an on-site renewable electricity system capable of meeting minimum energy standards.

When the changes will come into effect

The updated regulations will come into force on 4 March 2027, and will apply to any new building where construction has not already begun by that date.

Self-builders and developers will need to ensure renewable electricity systems are included in planning and construction to comply with the new standards.

England is still waiting for the introduction of the Future Homes Standard, which is expected to bring similar requirements for new homes.

Millions of UK households that rely on heating oil are being urged to report sudden price rises amid concerns some customers could be charged far more than expected.

The intervention from consumer campaigner Martin Lewis comes after reports that some suppliers have dramatically increased prices or cancelled existing deliveries before offering the fuel again at higher rates.

It has prompted Energy Secretary Ed Miliband to write to distributors warning them that customers must be treated fairly.

What Martin Lewis has said

Martin Lewis said he had spoken directly with Ed Miliband about problems facing households that rely on heating oil, particularly those in rural areas and Northern Ireland.

Posting online, he said heating oil was “the most immediate concern” for many households currently refilling their tanks.

He warned that prices had “rocketed”, with some reports suggesting they had “nearly doubled in a week”.

Martin Lewis said his biggest concerns were:

• People who cannot afford the new price
• The lack of regulation, because heating oil is not overseen by Ofgem
• Reports that existing booked deliveries were cancelled and customers asked to rebook at higher prices

He said that if reports of cancelled orders being repriced were confirmed, it would be “out of order”.

He asked households experiencing price spikes or delivery issues to send him evidence so it can be passed directly to ministers.

Around 1.5 million homes in the UK rely on heating oil, many of them in rural areas with off-grid heating, and these households are not protected by the energy price cap.

Miliband tells suppliers pricing must be fair

In response, Ed Miliband and Energy Minister Michael Shanks wrote to the UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association, which represents heating-oil suppliers.

In the letter, the ministers said they were aware the situation in the Middle East was putting pressure on fuel markets but stressed customers must be treated fairly.

They wrote that the government’s expectation is that pricing should be, “fair, transparent and fully justifiable”.

The ministers also warned distributors they remain bound by consumer-protection and competition law, adding: “Suppliers should ensure that any changes in pricing are clearly explained to customers and reflect genuine changes in supply costs.”

Ed Miliband said he realised it was a "particularly worrying time" for those on oil heating, but that he was working with the competition watchdog to "stamp out unfair practices like price gouging".

Oil prices fall today – but households may not see it for a while

The row comes even as global oil markets have begun to fall after a sharp spike earlier in the week.

Brent crude – the global benchmark – briefly surged to $119.50 per barrel (about £94) during the height of market fears about supply disruption. By Tuesday it had dropped to around $91.70 per barrel (about £72) as markets reacted to signs tensions might ease.

However, households that rely on heating oil may not see those lower prices immediately.

Heating-oil costs depend not only on crude oil but also on refining costs, wholesale kerosene markets, transport and distribution, meaning global price changes can take time to filter through to domestic deliveries.

For households needing to refill tanks now – often with minimum orders of about 500 litres – the immediate impact could still be significantly higher bills even as global oil prices begin to fall.

UK households that depend on central oil heating are facing a sharp jump in fuel costs as global oil markets react to the escalating Middle East conflict.

Live pricing from HomeFuels Direct - one of the UK’s major domestic heating oil suppliers - reveals that costs for typical deliveries have risen dramatically over just the past week.

These increases come at a time when around 1.7 million UK homes still rely on heating oil rather than mains gas, making many off‑grid households particularly vulnerable to volatile fossil fuel price rises.

Live UK heating oil prices

As of early March 2026, HomeFuels Direct’s live supplier quotes show heating oil prices significantly above levels seen even a few weeks ago:

• 500 litres: ~120 pence per litre (£630)
• 900 litres: ~119 pence per litre (£1,124)

For comparison, heating oil prices earlier this year were far lower. Pricing data from OilCompare shows UK averages in January 2026 were typically around 58–60 p per litre, with some larger-order quotes falling to about 53 p per litre in mid-February. In other words, today’s quotes in some areas are more than double what households were paying only weeks ago, highlighting how quickly global market volatility can feed through to off-grid heating costs.

These oil heating prices look even worse when compared to previous years' prices:

• 2018–2019: ~35–40p per litre (typical UK delivered price range)
• 2020–2021: ~43–48p per litre
• 2022 (pre‑war in Ukraine): ~48–52p per litre
• 2023 (post‑Ukraine conflict volatility): ~52–57p per litre
• 2024 average: ~56–61p per litre
• Early 2026 (before the recent spike): ~53–60p per litre

(Sources: OilCompare)

Why prices have risen quickly

The UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) - the trade body for liquid fuel distributors - explains that recent volatility in oil markets is feeding directly into what UK homeowners pay for heating oil:

• Crude oil and refined fuel markets have experienced sudden upward price pressure amid the Middle East crisis, affecting the cost of the kerosene used in domestic heating oil.
• Domestic oil distributors generally buy fuel close to the time of delivery rather than stockpiling it, so wholesale price moves translate rapidly into retail quotes.
• Many UK households using heating oil are not covered by the regulated energy price cap, meaning there’s no buffer against sudden global price swings.

This combination of international market factors and local distribution practices helps explain why some UK households are suddenly quoted much higher prices than just a fortnight ago.

Should I buy central heating oil now?

With prices having doubled in days, homeowners are understandably asking whether they should order oil now or wait in hopes of lower costs.

Kaj Adams, founder and director of operations at AnnorlundaDM, described the difficulties he has faced with his own order.

He said: “Early warning for anyone on heating oil my last order has just been subjected to one of the following three options. Maintain delivery date but the price will be whatever it is on the day before delivery, cancel order and have cold showers, or keep order at current price and have a delivery when oil price has dropped to February levels. My new estimated delivery date is 2nd November. Probably best not get close enough to smell me for a couple of weeks.”

Phil Murray, chief executive officer of WCF Fuels, offered practical guidance for households navigating volatile markets. He said “for customers the best approach during periods of market volatility is simply to plan ahead where possible and order in good time before tanks become low. Our teams across WCF Fuels remain focused on supporting customers and maintaining reliable deliveries.”

Practical advice for consumers includes:

• Order judiciously: If your oil tank is low, placing a delivery sooner rather than later can help avoid running out during cold spells - but avoid ordering far more than you need simply because of a temporary peak.
• Compare quotes: Using price‑comparison services like HomeFuels Direct can help identify the best deals from multiple UK suppliers on the same day, potentially saving you tens of pence per litre.
• Monitor short‑term trends: If your tank still has reasonable fuel, watching live prices for a short period may uncover small drops as markets respond to changing global conditions.

Michael Shanks, Member of Parliament and Minister for Energy, emphasised the government’s role in protecting consumers. He said: “Today Ed Miliband and I have written to the heating oil industry regarding price increases for households and businesses. It is vital that customers are treated fairly. Price gouging will not be tolerated. The Competition and Markets Authority will take any action necessary to protect families.”

Nationwide is expanding its Green Additional Borrowing offer, letting homeowners borrow up to £20,000 interest-free for eco-friendly home improvements.

The scheme is available for existing mortgage customers and includes upgrades like solar panels, insulation, and energy-efficient windows.

Following a successful first round in 2024, demand is high, and homeowners looking to create their own eco homes are urged to apply quickly before availability runs out.

0% loans: How do they work?

The Green Additional Borrowing mortgage allows existing Nationwide mortgage holders to borrow between £5,000 and £20,000 at 0% interest for either two or five year terms.

The loan must be used exclusively for energy-saving improvements, such as boiler upgrades, solar panels, air-source heat pumps, loft or cavity wall insulation, double or triple glazing, and electric car charging points. Monthly payments remain interest-free for the chosen term, after which the remaining balance converts to Nationwide’s standard mortgage rate.

Henry Jordan, Nationwide’s Group Director of Mortgages, said: “We are committed to helping our members improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Extending our zero per cent Green Additional Borrowing products will help another five thousand households who want to retrofit their home and can afford long-term investment but struggle to meet the upfront costs.”

This is an expansion of the 2024 offer, which proved extremely popular. That scheme, also allowing up to £20,000 for green home upgrades, saw its first allocation sell out quickly, demonstrating the appetite for affordable, eco-friendly home improvements.

Who qualifies for Nationwide's 0% loans?

To access the Green Additional Borrowing, homeowners must have an active Nationwide mortgage, with the combined total of their existing mortgage and the additional borrowing not exceeding 90% of the property’s value.

The additional borrowing term cannot exceed the remaining term of the existing mortgage, and only one Green Additional Borrowing mortgage per property is allowed.

Nationwide recommends that interested homeowners act quickly, as the previous round in 2024 sold out fast due to high demand for energy-efficient upgrades.

Why it matters for homeowners

With energy costs rising and climate concerns increasing, the mortgage gives homeowners a practical way to make their homes more energy-efficient without upfront costs.

Home improvements financed through this scheme can reduce energy bills, increase property value, and contribute to the UK’s decarbonisation goals.

By doubling the availability from the initial 2024 offer, Nationwide is making it easier for thousands more households to access interest-free funding for green upgrades, but limited availability means acting quickly is essential.

Smart thermostats let you manage your heating system remotely – either through an app on your phone or tablet, or via a voice assistant like Alexa. This means that even if you're at work or on holiday, you can keep an eye on your home's temperature, adjust it, and even set an automated timer so it's toasty when you arrive.

Some models can even learn your daily routine and automatically adjust based on whether you're home, asleep or away, helping to minimise unnecessary heating and, as a result, reduce your energy bills.

To help you find the best smart thermostat, we've rounded up six of our favourite options below, with all the details you need to know about heating system compatibility, smart home integration, and special features. To find out why Tado's Smart Thermostat X scored top points, keep reading.

The quick list

Short on time? Here’s a quick overview of the best smart thermostats – including quick links to more information.

The best smart thermostat overall

What stood out the most about the Tado Smart Thermostat X is its compatibility with a range of different heating systems – whether you have a combi or system boiler, underfloor heating, or heat pumps – making it a great choice for most homes.

The LCD device is sleek and discreet, displaying the exact temperature of the room in Celsius, along with manual control buttons. You can also adjust the temperature remotely via the smartphone app or through smart home platforms such as Matter, Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, the iOS app, or the Android app.

The device helps your home maintain a constant temperature, with the ability to create customised schedules for each room in the house. There is also the option to buy a Tado AI Assist subscription for £3.99 per month, which enables you to pre-heat your home before you arrive, view real-time reports on your energy consumption and costs, benefit from open-window detection, and access air quality optimisation. The thermostat can even detect when you're out to avoid wasting energy.

If you want special features, such as geo-fencing, without paying an additional premium, the Honeywell Home T6R-HW Smart Thermostat is a good alternative (unless you have a heat pump).

• Back to the top ⤴

The best smart thermostat runner-up

The Honeywell Home T6R-HW Smart Thermostat can be used with any boiler or underfloor heating system and helps improve the energy efficiency of your home.

The temperature can be adjusted manually on the interface or through an app or voice assistant (including Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, the iOS app, or the Android app). There is also the option to program a seven-day schedule with six set points – perfect if you have a regular routine.

This smart thermostat can be used to control both your heating and hot water, and it features a "boost" function for a temporary override, so you always have access to a warm shower. There are lots of settings to choose from, including Auto (a programmed schedule), Manual (maintains a constant temperature), Eco (maintains an energy-efficient temperature), and Holiday (a reduced set temperature for when you are away).

We think this is a solid option, but if your home is powered by a heat pump, the Cielo Smart Thermostat Eco may be a better choice.

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The best smart thermostat for combi boilers

The Hive Mini V4 Smart Thermostat has the stamp of approval from Homebuilding's Editor, Beth Murton, and Assistant Editor, Sarah Harley, both of whom have one installed in their homes. It’s suitable for combi boilers and can be controlled manually via the touchscreen display, an app, or a voice assistant (Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home).

This battery-powered device is OpenTherm compatible and offers frost protection for your pipes, a heating boost of up to six hours, and the ability to schedule up to six time slots each day.

Sarah has the hubless version (available on Screwfix) and loves how easily she can control her heating with the click of a button on her phone – whether that’s adjusting her schedule, boosting the heating, or turning it down when it gets too warm.

"That said, I think you have to be careful about where you place portable thermostats like this, as it's assessing the temperature based on only one room or space. It's not necessarily a Hive issue, but something to consider when thinking about where to locate your smart thermostat," she adds.

"However, the fact this one is portable does make it easier to trial it in different rooms, so you can establish which room will give you the most even temperature across your property."

Don't have a combi boiler? There is also a version for system and heat only boilers from Screwfix.

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The best smart thermostat for zone control

If you want precise temperature control across multiple rooms, we recommend the Honeywell Home Evohome Smart Thermostat, which lets you manage up to 12 different heating zones.

The thermostat has a large touchscreen that displays the temperature of each room and the hot water, as well as a control panel. These features can also be accessed remotely via a smartphone app or through your Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT devices.

You’ll be able to set up an individual seven-day schedule for each room (including six time slots per day), which can be optimised based on the outside temperature, room temperature, and set point. Since it automatically learns your home’s heat capacity, your boiler will run at the lowest possible rate.

The wireless design makes it portable and easy to install, and it’s compatible with 24–230V on/off and OpenTherm appliances, including boilers, zone valves, heat pumps, and district heating systems.

If you're looking for something more affordable, we recommend the Cielo Smart Thermostat Eco, which is around £90 cheaper.

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The best smart thermostat for radiators

These smart thermostatic radiator heads will keep your room at the optimal temperature, controlled via the touchscreen interface, mobile app, or smart platform voice-assistant.

They are compatible with most radiators and each pack comes with six different adaptors for various valve types, including Danfoss (RA, RAV, RAVL), Comap, Herz, Terrier, Siemens, and Olymp. This smart thermostat can be self-installed within five minutes and is powered by a convienient rechargeable battery.

Overtime, the device will learn the heating pattern of each room to strike the perfect balance between energy-efficiency and comfort (while still giving you total control). It can also detect when you're out and about, so you never waste money on heating an empty home, and it will put it back on for your arrival.

Similarly to the Tado Smart Thermostat X, some features, such as geofencing, air quality optimisation and open-window detection, require a £3.99 monthly subscription, but you can still access remote control without this. If that's a problem, you could consider the Honeywell Home T6R-HW Smart Thermostat instead.

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The best smart thermostat for heat pumps

This smart thermostat by Cielo can be used with heat pumps, boilers, and geothermal heating systems, and can be controlled via the device itself, a smartphone app, or smart home integration.

The device allows you to monitor your heating from anywhere in the world, adjusting the temperature, setting schedules, and using preset options for Home, Away, and Sleep to reduce your energy bills. It also features geofencing for location-based control, which turns off the heating when you're not there.

The thermostat keeps track of your home's heating and cooling patterns (which you can view yourself) and uses this information to lower your energy consumption. It's easy to install and comes with a backplate, wall plate, USB-C adaptor, and mounting screws with drywall anchors.

For more advanced controls, such as detailed scheduling and room zoning, the Honeywell Home Evohome Smart Thermostat is a better choice.

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Other smart thermostats we tested

Who tested the best smart thermostats

Curious about who’s behind these reviews? Meet the team below:

For more information on our testing procedure, read our dedicated page on how we test products.

How to choose the best smart thermostat

Before investing in the best smart thermostat, you'll need to consider the following:

1. Your heating system
Not every smart thermostat will be compatible with your heating system, so you'll need to check its suitability first. If you'd like to buy one of the models in this guide, we’ve included this information in the table below.

2. Your schedule
In some cases – such as the open window detection feature on Tado devices – certain special features come at an additional cost. To avoid wasting money each month, think carefully about which features you will actually use and need on a daily basis.

3. Installation
While some smart thermostats are as simple as plugging them in and getting started, others require professional installation.

"Many smart thermostats are designed for DIY installation, offering clear instructions and guidance on how to safely install them," says Chris Houghton, operational improvement manager and qualified gas and heating engineer at Ding.

"However, it is important to note that wiring will still be necessary, so if you would rather not have to deal with something like that, you can book engineers to set one up for you.”

What are the pros and cons of a smart thermostat?

If you're feeling undecided on whether a smart thermostat is right for you, Michael Zohouri, Founder of Pyramid Eco, outlines the pros and cons below:

✅Control: "The biggest advantage of a smart thermostat is control. You can adjust the set temperature from your phone and set schedules to match your daily routine."

✅Reduce energy bills: "You can also see how much energy you’re using. That alone can help you save on your bills as you see when you’re wasting energy heating an empty house. And if you forget to turn the heating down before you leave the house, you can use you phone to turn it down. Some systems learn your habits over time and adjust automatically."

✅Zoning: "Some more advanced systems allow you to control different rooms separately when paired with smart radiator valves. That means you’re not heating the whole house just to use one room."

❌More expensive: "They are more expensive than a standard programmable thermostat. Installation can be straightforward, but in some older properties with older wiring, you may need a professional to set it up properly."

❌Savings depend on how you use it: "If someone simply installs a smart thermostat and leaves it running at 21 degrees all day, they won’t see much difference. It’s a tool, not a magic fix."

When used correctly and optimised for your space and lifestyle, the best smart thermostats can be invaluable in reducing energy bills and making your home more efficient.

To learn more, read our guide on smart heating systems and the cost of replacing a thermostat.

Edited by Beth Murton.

From April 2026, the UK’s Energy Price Cap will fall by 7%, cutting electricity by 3.5p per kWh and gas by 33p per kWh for households on standard tariffs.

But Martin Lewis says the current Price Cap is still “pants” and warns that the cheapest fixed deals could undercut it by around 15%.

He spoke to Jonathan Brearley, head of Ofgem, on his Money Show, who confirmed that suppliers will pass on the reductions, but he did confirm that the standing charge is “staying roughly the same”.

Why Lewis says 'the price cap is still pants'

Martin Lewis has repeatedly criticised the Energy Price Cap for failing to fully protect households.

“Those who use the most energy will see the largest benefits, but if you can ditch it, you should,” Lewis said on his Martin Lewis Money Show Live.

The cap sets limits on unit rates and standing charges for standard tariffs, but bills can still rise if households use more energy. Jonathan Brearley added that the standing charge is “staying roughly the same,” while the April reduction reflects the end of the ECO4 scheme and changes to the Warm Home Discount, which shift some costs from standing charges onto unit rates.

How the cheapest fixed deals could save more

Even with the Price Cap falling by 7%, fixed tariffs often offer even bigger savings. Lewis said: “The 14% cheapest fixes available today may drop even further by April, possibly 15% below the Price Cap.”

These deals benefit from the same government cost cuts that apply to the cap, including reduced contributions to the Renewables Obligation and the closure of the Energy Company Obligation.

Households on fixed deals can see their bills automatically fall, making them potentially a smarter option than staying on a variable price-capped tariff.

How to switch or lock in savings

To make the most of the reductions, consumers should check when their provider will apply their tariff cuts. Lewis recommends using comparison tools such as the MoneySavingExpert Cheap Energy Club to find the best fixed deals based on usage and region.

“Almost every household on a standard tariff should see their supplier pass on these savings, but the fastest way to guarantee a lower bill is to move to a fixed deal if your provider allows it,” Brearley said.

By reviewing tariffs now, Lewis says households can lock in the April reductions and potentially pay less than the Price Cap for the rest of 2026.

A major change is coming to how the energy efficiency of homes is measured in the UK – one that could affect every builder, developer, and renovator.

The government has announced the Home Energy Model, a new system set to replace the current Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) and to calculate Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).

For decades, SAP has been used to estimate a home’s energy use, but it relies on simplified assumptions and averages.

The Home Energy Model will use a different methodology to calculate energy use, taking into account the building, its systems, and how it is used, which we will explore to give you all the information you need once it is finally introduced.

Why the Home Energy Model is being introduced?

SAP uses simplified assumptions and monthly averages to estimate energy use. This approach does not fully reflect how modern homes operate, particularly those with heat pumps, solar panels, batteries, or other energy technologies.

The Home Energy Model addresses these limitations by simulating energy use over time, considering how homes are built and how they are occupied.

David Hilton, a renewable energy expert, commented on this transition: “Any new product takes time to transition in and there will need to be a lot of training, re-education and debugging of the system before it can finally settle. This transition is the key.”

For builders and renovators, this means energy assessments will provide a clearer view of a home’s performance, supporting design decisions, retrofits, and compliance with energy regulations.

How will the Home Energy Model work?

The Home Energy Model will estimate how much energy a home uses over the course of a year, producing a detailed simulation of heating, hot water, and electricity use.

It will take into account:

• The building itself – walls, floors, roof, windows, and insulation
• Heating and cooling systems – including boilers, heat pumps, and ventilation systems
• Renewable energy and storage – such as solar panels or batteries
• How the home is used – occupancy patterns and appliance use

From this information, the model produces results that show:

• Total energy use for heating, hot water, and electricity
• Energy use patterns throughout the day and across the seasons
• Energy performance metrics for EPCs, including running costs and carbon emissions

David Hilton also highlighted the challenge of introducing a new system to the industry: “The Home Energy Model looks to be a welcome improvement on SAP but until we actually have the final product and can see how it works and how it will be rolled out into industry it is very difficult to know what it will mean for the industry… I also wonder how keen the industry is for yet another change that will inevitably cost time and money in an already difficult market.”

The Home Energy Model turns information about a home and its use into a simulation of energy performance, which will be applied to building regulations and Energy Performance Certificates.

When will the Home Energy Model be introduced?

The Home Energy Model will be introduced when the Future Homes Standard comes into effect, setting updated energy efficiency requirements for newly built homes.

Initially, it will be used to assess compliance with the new standard. Over time, it will also be applied to Energy Performance Certificates for new and existing homes.

David Hilton noted the potential scepticism around the rollout: “There will inevitably be large amounts of scepticism due to history being plagued with expensive Government schemes that were destined to fail or were cancelled due to political U-turns. Something needs to be done, and hopefully this is it, but the reality of its efficacy will only really be evident in the fullness of time.”

During the rollout, there will be a transition period where both SAP and the Home Energy Model are available, giving builders, assessors, and software providers time to adapt.

What this means for builders and renovators

Once in use, the Home Energy Model will affect how energy performance is calculated and reported. Builders and renovators will need to:

• Consider how insulation, windows, heating systems, and renewable technologies affect energy ratings
• Understand that assessments and EPCs will be based on a simulation of how the home is used throughout the year, rather than simplified averages
• Plan for training and software updates, as the model is integrated into compliance checks and EPC production

David Hilton commented on the practical implications for industry professionals: “Any new product takes time to transition in and there will need to be a lot of training, reeducation and debugging of the system before it can finally settle. This transition is the key.”

The Home Energy Model will provide a consistent framework for assessing energy use and efficiency, helping industry professionals plan, build, and retrofit homes in line with updated regulations.

The Home Energy Model represents the next step in how the UK measures home energy performance. By simulating energy use in detail, it aims to provide more accurate assessments for building regulations and EPCs.

Builders and renovators will need to understand its implications, plan for the transition, and consider how building materials, systems, and occupancy affect energy performance.

While the system is not yet in use, preparing for the Home Energy Model now can help the industry adapt smoothly when it is introduced alongside the Future Homes Standard.

Homeowners could soon make real money from the renewable energy projects around their homes that could also save them from rising energy prices.

The UK’s new Local Power Plan will let residents buy shares in local solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage schemes, turning nearby clean energy into a potential income stream.

Ministers and industry leaders say this is a historic opportunity for ordinary people to benefit directly from the green energy transition, putting households in control and letting them earn while their communities generate electricity.

What the new Local Power Plan means

The UK Government and Great British Energy have unveiled a sweeping strategy for community and local energy, described in official documents as “the biggest public investment in community energy in this country’s history.”

This plan aims to expand clean energy projects such as solar panels on community buildings, battery storage and other renewable generation assets that are owned and led locally.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said the drive for clean energy was about creating an economy that “works for the many, not just the wealthy and powerful in our society” and that local and community energy is central to that vision. He added that the government wants people to be able to “own and control clean energy so the profits flow into your community not simply out to the big energy companies.”

Great British Energy’s CEO Dan McGrail said the investment is intended to deliver “cleaner, more secure and more affordable energy for our communities.” The plan includes measures to support up to 1,000 community and local energy projects, offering grants, loans and advisory support so groups and individuals can be more directly involved in clean power generation.

How homeowners could benefit

One of the key aims of the Local Power Plan is to help communities participate in renewable energy schemes through shared ownership and other collaborative models.

The policy explicitly discusses developing investable business models and exploring ways to make it easier to share generated power locally, which could translate into opportunities for local people to invest in and benefit from projects in their area.

Stakeholders from community energy organisations have welcomed this emphasis on local involvement. Repowering London’s Chief Executive Afsheen Kabir Rashid said the investment puts “money directly into people’s pockets through reduced bills, quality jobs and meaningful local investment.”

While the government announcement does not dictate how share offers will work in practice, existing community energy groups often use shared ownership structures where local people can invest and help fund renewable infrastructure.

This means homeowners could, in future, have clearer pathways to take part in local energy schemes that return value to communities, whether through access to energy revenue, savings on energy bills, or community reinvestment.

What happens next

The Local Power Plan says the government will continue working with devolved authorities, local councils and community organisations to improve the landscape for community energy projects.

It also notes the intention to consult on regulatory and business model changes that could make shared local ownership more accessible.

Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities Miatta Fahnbulleh said strong communities are “the backbone of our society” and that the plan’s support aims to empower local people with the tools and funding they need to deliver projects that matter to them.

Officials say the next step is a detailed consultation process, expected to continue through 2026, which will explore how to operationalise shared ownership and local participation in clean energy - potentially giving homeowners and local investors new ways to benefit from the UK’s transition to net‑zero power.

Coed Darcy was planned as a £1.2bn eco village inspired by King Charles’ model at Poundbury, with thousands of homes, schools and shops designed to create a self-contained community.

Thirteen years later, only a fraction of the homes have been built, and a small test hamlet of nine mock-Georgian eco homes remains completely unoccupied.

The stalled project raises questions about the practical challenges of delivering sustainable housing at scale and what lessons can be applied to future eco developments.

What was built in the eco village?

In 2013, a test hamlet of nine Georgian-style eco homes was completed on the Coed Darcy site in South Wales, on land formerly occupied by an oil refinery near Port Talbot. These homes were designed to showcase sustainable construction methods.

Beyond the hamlet, around 294 homes were eventually built, but key community facilities such as schools, shops, and medical services were not delivered.

The test homes now stand discoloured, partially boarded up, and isolated from the rest of the village by undeveloped land, creating a striking image of empty streets in a project intended to demonstrate sustainable living.

Why did the project fail?

Several factors prevented Coed Darcy from becoming the thriving eco community it was designed to be.

Filmmaker Jay Curtis, who documented the deserted hamlet with a drone, described the scene as “like a village that time forgot” and said “it just looked completely abandoned.”

He compared it to a post-apocalyptic film set and added: “There’s no real clear answer… to have that level of hype, a Royal visit, and such ambition – and then to see it all just left – it amazes people. These are big, expensive homes. There are a lot of them. And no one ever moved in.”

While a small number of homes were built, essential amenities such as schools, shops, and healthcare were never completed, making it impractical for residents to move in.

Broader economic challenges and long planning permission processes also delayed construction, and revisions to the masterplan scaled back the number of homes, leaving parts of the site undeveloped.

Lessons for future eco homes

Coed Darcy illustrates the importance of combining sustainable construction with functional, liveable communities.

For eco housing to succeed, homes must be accompanied by accessible amenities so residents can live and work locally, reflecting the principles of a 15-minute neighbourhood.

The project also shows that ambitious design must be balanced with practical delivery and phased construction. Future eco villages can learn from Coed Darcy by ensuring that housing, infrastructure, and community facilities are ready for occupation, creating communities that are truly sustainable and attractive to residents.

Energy standing charges are finally set to fall by around £40 a year from April, offering households a rare piece of good news amid years of rising bills.

With energy prices rising, any reduction will be closely watched by consumers feeling the squeeze. The change follows a Government decision to shift Warm Home Discount costs off the standing charge and onto the unit rate.

Consumer champion Martin Lewis has welcomed the move as a step towards fairer billing. Crucially, the reduction will apply to everyone, not just those who qualify for the Warm Home Discount.

What the change means for households

From April, all energy customers will see a reduction in the daily standing charge on both gas and electricity bills. The saving is expected to total roughly £40 per year, split between gas and electricity.

Martin Lewis welcomed the move, saying: “Paying £300-plus a year simply for the facility of having energy is too much.”

He has long argued that the standing charge unfairly penalises low-usage households and added that it is “the biggest single cause of complaint I get about energy bills, by a mile.”

Although some costs are being moved on to the unit rate, the overall impact - assuming other factors remain stable – should still mean lower bills for many households.

Why the Government made the shift

The Government decided to remove Warm Home Discount costs from the standing charge following consultation and mounting public concern.

Those costs will instead be incorporated into the unit rate, alongside other changes such as cancelling certain environmental schemes and shifting some policy costs into general taxation.

Lewis described the reduction as “only a baby step, but it’s good to see some movement in the right direction.”

He added that after speaking to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and the Ofgem chief executive, he believes they are “hearing the mood music” around widespread dissatisfaction with standing charges.

What happens next?

Campaigners and consumer groups now hope Ofgem will take a similar approach in its long-term consultation on the future structure of energy bills.

Lewis has previously described the standing charge as a “moral hazard” because it disincentivises lower usage and keeps bills high even for those who use very little energy.

For older households who may not use gas during the summer yet still pay daily charges, the reform could feel particularly significant. While the £40 reduction is modest, it signals a possible shift in direction – and offers a small but welcome boost for every energy customer from next April.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are about to be calculated in a very different way as the government prepares to launch the Home Energy Model (HEM), which will replace the current Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) used since 1993.

The government says HEM is designed to provide more detailed calculations of energy use, including heating, hot water, solar panels and smart home technologies.

While the Future Homes Standard is still due to be introduced in early 2026, HEM will now follow at least three months later, meaning millions of homes will be assessed under the new model.

What the Home Energy Model is and how it works

According to the government, HEM calculates energy use at 30-minute intervals, compared with the monthly averages used by the current SAP system.

The government says this will allow the model to take account of factors such as room temperatures, heat loss through walls or windows, shading from other buildings, and the performance of heating systems, including heat pumps.

HEM is initially being developed to check whether new homes meet the Future Homes Standard, but the government plans for it to eventually be used for EPC calculations.

Timeline and implementation

The government has confirmed that HEM will not launch at the same time as the Future Homes Standard.

The Future Homes Standard rollout is still planned for the first quarter of 2026, and SAP 10.3 will remain the official method for EPC calculations until HEM is ready. HEM is now expected to follow at least three months later.

Officials said the delay is intended to ensure the model is “as robust as possible and delivered to the highest possible standard,” giving assessors, developers and homeowners time to prepare for the change.

What this means for homeowners and EPCs

Once HEM is live, the government says EPCs will be calculated using the new methodology, which could change the ratings for millions of homes.

SAP 10.3 will continue to be used until HEM is implemented. The government says the new model is designed to support the Future Homes Standard and future energy performance assessments, though exactly how ratings may change in practice remains to be seen.

From February 2026, UK energy suppliers must comply with tougher rules on smart meter installations and repairs.

Customers may automatically receive £40 compensation if an installation is delayed by more than six weeks, an appointment fails due to a supplier's fault, or a reported problem is not addressed within five working days.

The changes are intended to make smart meters more reliable, helping ensure the information they provide can be used to support practical energy-saving tips for households.

Automatic compensation for delays and faults

Under the updated rules, the £40 automatic payment applies in three key situations:

• When a smart meter installation takes longer than six weeks
• When an appointment fails due to the supplier’s error
• When a reported fault is not accompanied by a resolution plan within five working days

The compensation is intended to encourage suppliers to act promptly and prevent customers from being left with unresolved issues.

This comes after reports that found 1 in every 10 smart meters faulty in 2023, requiring a mass recall, an issue which is still not resolved, Ofgem have admitted.

Melissa Giordano, Deputy Director of Systems and Processes at Ofgem, said: “Every customer who wants a smart meter should get one quickly, and it should work from day one. These new rules set clear expectations for suppliers and protect consumers when things go wrong.”

Expanded supplier obligations

Energy suppliers are now required to ensure that smart meters are installed correctly and fully operational in smart mode from the outset.

They must repair or replace meters that are not functioning properly, aiming to reduce long-standing faults and improve overall customer satisfaction.

The rules apply to all UK energy suppliers, creating a consistent standard across the market. Suppliers are also expected to maintain timely communication with customers about appointments and repairs, ensuring transparency throughout the process.

Future standards and monitoring

Ofgem will continue to monitor supplier performance under these updated standards and has committed to reviewing them again in early 2027.

Further rules are planned later this year to cover compensation for smart meters that remain unfixed in smart mode for more than 90 days.

Giordano added: “Automatic compensation remains a powerful way to incentivise the industry to make sure smart meters are working correctly and to fix issues quickly.”

The regulator said these measures are part of a wider strategy to improve the smart meter experience, encourage compliance, and maintain public confidence in the rollout.

Around 800,000 households across England, Wales and Scotland that receive Feed-in Tariff payments from solar panels will earn less over time after the Government confirmed a change to how the scheme is uprated.

From 1 April 2026, annual increases will be linked to the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rather than the Retail Prices Index (RPI), which has historically been higher.

MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis said the change was “not good news” for solar households, adding that “from 1 April it’ll get a little worse”, though he noted it could have been far worse.

What is changing from April

From 1 April 2026, Feed-in Tariff payments will rise in line with CPI inflation instead of RPI.

While payments will continue to increase each year, the switch means those increases are likely to be smaller. Ofgem will publish the new CPI-linked tariff rates for the 2026/27 year before the changes take effect.

Who will be affected

The changes apply only to existing Feed-in Tariff customers, as the scheme closed to new applicants in 2019 and was replaced by the Smart Export Guarantee.

Households already signed up typically receive fixed payments for generating and exporting electricity under long-term contracts, often lasting up to 25 years.

Because CPI is generally lower than RPI, households will earn less over the remaining lifetime of their agreements.

Why the Government made the change and what it means going forward

The Government has argued that RPI can overstate inflation and that CPI is a more widely used and accurate measure.

It has also said the move will help reduce the overall cost of the scheme, which is funded through levies on household electricity bills. Earlier proposals to freeze Feed-in Tariff rates for several years were dropped following criticism, with Martin Lewis warning such a move would have been a “breach of promise”.

While the Government has stepped back from freezing payments altogether, the shift to CPI means many Feed-in Tariff households will still see their returns eroded over time, marking a quiet but significant change for long-standing solar incentives.

With energy bills rising, families across Britain are struggling to keep their homes warm while managing ever-rising costs.

Now, the government’s new Warm Homes Plan could offer a lifeline, giving eligible low-income households up to £12,000 worth of solar panels and batteries completely free of charge.

For those who don’t qualify for fully funded upgrades, the scheme also provides low- and zero-interest loans, making it easier for more families to invest in solar panels, cut their energy bills and switch to cleaner, more efficient energy sources.

You can get thousands of pounds worth of solar panels for free

Who qualifies for free solar panels and upgrades?

The Warm Homes Plan includes a targeted fund – backed by about £5 billion – to provide fully funded packages of upgrades for low-income and fuel-poor households.

Under this strand, eligible families could receive solar panels and solar batteries installed at no charge, with typical combined solar panel costs currently estimated at around £9,000–£12,000.

Eligibility is generally based on income, benefits and property criteria – for example, household income thresholds (often circa £36,000 or less) and receipt of means-tested benefits like Universal Credit.

In many local areas, properties must also meet minimum energy performance standards to qualify (e.g., certain EPC ratings).

How homeowners can apply

The government is rolling out Local Grant schemes through local authorities, meaning homeowners typically apply through their council’s online portal or via a postcode eligibility tool.

Applicants generally enter basic details such as address, household income and any benefits received; if eligible, local officials arrange a home energy survey free of charge to decide what upgrades are suitable.

Once approved, certified installers carry out the work at no upfront cost.

What the plan offers beyond solar panels

For households that don’t qualify for fully funded upgrades, the plan still offers government-backed low- and zero-interest loans to help pay for solar panels, battery storage and heat pumps – removing much of the cost barrier.

Homeowners can also still use the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offering £7,500 off the price of a heat pump, aimed at helping more families switch to low-carbon heating.

The government has also confirmed that from early 2026, all new homes in England will be built with solar panels as standard under the Future Homes Standard.

'The start of a nationwide rooftop revolution'

Industry experts have welcomed the government’s support for solar panels and batteries while noting practical considerations for homeowners.

Gemma Grimes, Director of Policy and Delivery at Solar Energy UK, said: "Solar panels and batteries could help households reduce energy bills, and the grants and loans will make rooftop solar accessible to more people."

Simon McWhirter, CEO of the UK Green Building Council, said: "This initiative helps households move away from volatile fossil fuels while future-proofing homes against rising bills and a warming climate. It represents the start of a nationwide rooftop revolution."

Ultimately, families across the country can benefit from free or affordable solar panels, batteries and home improvements, helping them manage rising energy bills and move toward cleaner energy.

Thousands of UK homeowners with solar panels are being warned they could face an automatic £100 fine if they miss the 31 January online self-assessment deadline.

Many households earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee by selling surplus energy generated from their panels back to the grid.

Combined with side-hustle income, this can push earnings above HMRC’s £1,000 tax-free trading allowance, creating a legal requirement to declare the income.

Rising numbers of solar panel owners at risk

Around 1.6 million UK households now have solar panels, with many earning over £300 a year through Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments.

George Penny, Energy Expert at The Solar Co explains, “With hundreds of thousands of Brits earning through solar, it’s easy to unintentionally exceed the £1,000 trading allowance, especially when combined with other side income.”

With 39% of the UK workforce now having side hustles, many homeowners may be unaware they need to declare this additional income to HMRC.

Understanding the £100 penalty and escalating fines

The £100 fine is triggered automatically if an online self-assessment is not submitted by the 31 January deadline.

Penny warns: “Even a small delay can result in penalties, and after three months, daily fines of £10 can apply, escalating further after six and 12 months.”

For some solar owners, these fines could wipe out a significant portion of their annual SEG earnings, making timely filing crucial.

Practical steps to ensure your return is correct

George Penny recommends that homeowners calculate all sources of income carefully, including SEG payments and any side hustles, before completing their return.

He adds: “If you’re unsure whether your solar income needs reporting, it’s safer to declare it early rather than risk a fine.”

Additionally, keeping a clear record of energy statements and receipts can make filing faster and reduce the risk of errors, while setting reminders ahead of the 31 January deadline helps avoid last-minute problems.

Scotland has opened its first Zero Bills homes, with 57 properties at the Tranent Grove development in Dundee eligible for a tariff that covers household energy costs for up to 10 years.

Each home is equipped with solar panels, heat pumps, home batteries, and smart meters to generate and manage most of its own electricity.

The site is the first in Scotland for Octopus Energy’s scheme, which is part of a nationwide rollout targeting 100,000 of the eco homes by 2030.

How Zero Bills homes work

Octopus Energy Zero Bills homes are designed to produce the majority of their own energy on-site. Residents are allocated 10 megawatt-hours (MWh) of free electricity per year - roughly enough for a well-insulated three-bedroom house.

The homes use a combination of solar panels, solar batteries, and heat pumps, along with smart energy systems, to optimise electricity usage.

Any energy consumed beyond the annual allocation is charged at standard rates, and electricity used for charging electric vehicles is not included in the scheme.

Scotland the 'perfect next spot' for Zero Bills homes

“Scotland is a renewable energy powerhouse – making it the perfect next spot for us to roll out Zero Bills homes,” said Nigel Banks, Zero Bills Director at Octopus Energy.

He added that the scheme uses advanced technology to ensure energy is used when it is cheapest or greenest, while most households remain under the free energy threshold.

Octopus Energy launched the Zero Bills scheme in 2022 and has already approved eligibility for over 5,000 homes across the UK. The Dundee site aims to demonstrate how the technology can be applied in practice, with households benefitting from energy-efficient design combined with smart energy management.

Wider rollout and potential impact

The Zero Bills scheme is primarily targeted at new and self-build homes, but could expand to retrofitted older properties in the future.

By providing guaranteed free electricity for up to a decade, the scheme offers households financial certainty amid rising energy prices.

Octopus Energy plans to deliver 100,000 homes under the Zero Bills model by 2030, making energy-efficient, low-cost living more accessible to UK residents.

As energy prices continue to climb, community‑scale solar projects are emerging as a potential lifeline for British households and public facilities alike.

By pooling demand and installing solar panels collectively, neighbourhoods can unlock lower costs and shared savings that individual homeowners often struggle to achieve.

Recent UK initiatives and studies show measurable bill reductions and growing community interest, even as cost and policy challenges persist.

Community solar can cut energy costs and empower neighbourhoods

Evidence from UK pilot projects shows the financial benefits of shared solar initiatives. In Cheshire and Warrington, the Solar Together group‑buying scheme has attracted nearly 4,000 households and cut installation prices by around 38% – lowering barriers to adoption and likely reducing future energy spending for participating residents.

Elsewhere, community energy groups such as Croydon Community Energy report local solar systems saving community centres £1,500–£3,000 a year on power bills, with plans to expand to hundreds more homes through collective funding.

Government figures on rooftop solar deployment project that widespread adoption could deliver typical household savings of about £500 through reduced grid electricity use.

Shared power schemes can spread the financial and practical benefits

Beyond cost savings, community solar helps people who otherwise can’t install panels on their own roofs – for example, renters or households with unsuitable buildings.

Research from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) suggests community solar projects can drive up to 20–50% greater participation in renewable energy adoption in areas where individual installations are impractical.

Community‑owned solar schemes in London, Edinburgh and South Wales have generated over £100,000 in collective savings and local benefit funds while creating jobs and supporting fuel poverty programmes.

Trials like the CommUNITY project in Brixton illustrate how residents can benefit through flexible pricing and energy storage, with participating households saving about £8.20 a month on electricity bills (£98.40 a year).

Policy drivers and challenges for scaling up community solar

The UK government is prioritising solar to tackle high energy costs, investing in clean energy upgrades for public buildings that could produce £650 million in annual bill savings over the next decade.

However, rooftop solar systems are still relatively expensive compared with international standards – even as solar installation costs fall, typical UK systems can cost several thousand pounds per home.

Community solar also faces regulatory and financial hurdles: recent evidence submitted to Parliament highlights that community PV costs remain roughly twice those of large utility‑scale solar, and advocates are calling for targeted incentives akin to past feed‑in tariffs to make local projects more viable.

This shows that community solar panels are more than a rooftop trend – they’re a pathway to shared savings, local energy resilience, and lower bills at a time when UK families and councils are squeezed by rising prices and grid volatility.

If you've spotted a burst water pipe outside your house and are unsure what to do, we're here to guide you through the next steps, with advice from a qualified plumber and water leak expert.

From blocked drains to frozen pipes, cold weather can invite a host of pesky problems – and a burst pipe is just one of them, causing flooding, property damage, and an interruption to the water supply.

To find out what you need to do in the event of a burst water pipe – whether it's on your land or not – keep reading to find out what the experts recommend.

What to do if you have a burst water pipe outside

If you have a burst water pipe outside your home, the first thing you should do is report it to your local water company, advises James Hargrave, Head of Leakage Operations at Anglian Water. The same applies if there is a leak coming from your external stop tap or meter.

However, if the burst comes from a private pipe inside the boundary of your property, James explains that you may need to turn off your water supply and find a plumber to repair it. “If in doubt, the water company can determine whether it is one for them to repair and can guide you to approved contractors who can help.”

How to repair burst pipes on a private property

If you discover a burst pipe on your private property (as opposed to public land), you'll want to follow plumber Harry Davis' step-by-step guide below:

1. Turn off the water supply at the stop tap to prevent further damage
2. For small, accessible bursts, a temporary repair clamp or self-amalgamating tape can limit water loss until a permanent fix is made. However, most outdoor or underground private supply pipes will require a professional plumber to excavate and replace the damaged section safely and to current standards
3. Once repaired, it’s essential to improve protection and insulation around the pipe to prevent the problem recurring

What causes burst water pipes outside?

There are a number of causes of burst water pipes, such as age and corrosion, which create small weaknesses that worsen over time, explains James Hargave.

It can also be down to seasonal conditions: in winter, the ground can freeze and swell, causing pipes to burst; in summer, the ground can shrink as it dries out.

What are the signs of a burst water pipe outside?

Unfortunately, many causes of a burst water pipe are out of our control, but by spotting the signs early, you can prevent as much damage and cost as possible.

Here's what Harry Davis says to look out for:

• Unexplained wet patches in the garden or driveway
• Areas of ground that are unusually soft or waterlogged
• Water pooling when there hasn’t been any rainfall
• A sudden drop in water pressure
• Unusual noises in the pipework
• A higher than expected water bill
• In winter, frost or ice forming in unexpected outdoor areas

How to prevent burst water pipes outside your home

Since outdoor pipes are fully exposed to cold temperatures, Harry Davis explains that they’re particularly prone to bursting. Here’s how he recommends preventing this from happening:

• Insulate external pipework with weatherproof lagging – especially at stop taps, joints and bends
• Garden taps should be turned off at the internal isolation valve and drained before winter, and hoses disconnected
• Fix small leaks early, as even minor drips can freeze and cause blockages that lead to bursts
• Maintain a well-heated, energy-efficient home helps stabilise temperatures around entry points where pipes pass through walls. Systems like OH4 can support this by helping homeowners manage background heating efficiently, reducing cold spots without driving up energy use

By keeping an eye out for the signs of a burst water pipe and implementing preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of damage and costly repairs.

You might also want to read our guides on drainage problems and condensation on cold water pipes.

The Warm Homes Plan, first promised in May 2024 by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, was designed to tackle rising energy bills and reduce carbon emissions by upgrading the energy efficiency of millions of homes.

The plan, which aims to support insulation, low-carbon heating, ventilation, and solar technologies, was expected to provide clarity and funding for households across the UK.

Officials have now confirmed the full plan will not be released until January 2026, leaving homeowners and advisors uncertain about what support will be available and when.

What the Warm Homes Plan includes

The plan is intended to upgrade up to 5 million homes over the next five years, helping households cut energy costs while contributing to the UK’s climate targets.

Key programs, such as the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme for heat pumps, may continue, but full details on eligibility, grant levels, and low-interest financing are still unknown.

So far, the government has confirmed £1.29bn for social landlords and £500m for local authorities to fund energy efficiency upgrades, but individual homeowners still have no clarity on what support, grants, or loans will be available for their properties.

Reasons for the delay

Officials say the delay is due in part to the need to finalise a replacement for the scrapped Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme, which was ended in the Autumn Budget.

Combined with £1.5 billion in cuts to household energy programs, the government says it is taking extra time to ensure the plan provides “clear support for homeowners while safeguarding thousands of clean energy jobs.”

A DESNZ spokesperson said the government is “doubling down on support for home upgrades” and will outline plans to help households and support jobs “soon.”

Impact on homeowners and industry

The delay has left homeowners and the retrofit sector in limbo.

Becky Lane, CEO of Birmingham-based retrofit company Furbnow, which has upgraded more than 1,000 homes across England and Wales, said: “After slashing ECO and £1.5bn in the Autumn Budget, the industry desperately needs certainty. The Warm Homes Plan is now over eight months late. We want to invest and grow, but it’s impossible when government keeps announcing cuts while withholding the policy we need to deliver.”

She added: “Eight months of delays and counting. Companies like ours are ready to scale up and deliver better outcomes for homeowners, but we can’t plan or invest without knowing the rules of the game. The government promised the Warm Homes Plan in May. It’s now December, ECO has been scrapped, and we still have no clarity on what replaces it. Set a date and stick to it. This sector can’t operate in limbo.”

Lane also highlighted the importance of targeted low-interest finance, saying loans must focus on upgrades that need the most support, insulation, heating systems, and ventilation, rather than narrowly on solar and batteries.

Without clear guidance, millions of homeowners are left uncertain about when or how they can improve their homes.

UK homebuyers can now more easily spot properties that dramatically reduce energy costs thanks to a new feature from Rightmove, developed in partnership with Octopus Energy.

The Zero Bills label highlights homes equipped with green technology such as heat pumps, solar panels, and batteries, making it simple for movers to find properties that are both eco-friendly and cost-efficient.

The partnership comes as demand for eco homes rises, with buyers increasingly looking for properties that combine comfort, lower bills, and a smaller carbon footprint.

How the 'Zero Bills' feature works

The Zero Bills label flags homes on Rightmove listings powered by Octopus Energy’s world-first Zero Bills smart tariff, which guarantees no home energy bills for 5–10 years when paired with cutting-edge green technology.

This includes heat pumps, solar panels, and battery storage that reduce reliance on traditional gas or electricity. By integrating these technologies, the system provides cleaner energy while delivering significant financial savings for homeowners.

Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, said: "Most people now know someone benefitting from a cost-slashing electric car, and savvy homeowners are starting to search for houses with solar panels and heat pumps too. We’re delighted to team up with Rightmove to help their home-movers spot the greener homes of the future."

Growing demand for greener homes

Interest in green technology is rising sharply in the UK housing market. Rightmove data shows a 46% increase in listings mentioning heat pumps and a 37% rise in references to solar panels year-on-year.

Homeowners are also embracing cleaner tech: research from Octopus Energy found that nine in ten homeowners with heat pumps are glad they switched, with 94% saying their homes are as comfortable - or more so - than with their previous gas boiler.

Johan Svanstrom, CEO of Rightmove, said: "Helping home-movers navigate to a greener future is a priority for Rightmove, and we provide many forms of information for homes-related sustainability. We’re excited to partner with Octopus Energy to unlock more opportunities, drive awareness and adoption, and highlight their innovative energy-saving product on our platform."

Potential savings and benefits for homebuyers

According to Rightmove’s Energy Bills Tracker, moving from a typical UK home with an EPC D rating to a Zero Bills property could save over £2,350 a year on energy costs.

The feature not only helps buyers reduce bills but also makes energy-efficient homes more visible in the property market, potentially boosting their value.

The partnership signals a wider trend toward greener homes becoming a key selling point, combining financial, comfort, and environmental benefits.

By highlighting properties with advanced clean technology, Rightmove and Octopus Energy aim to make it simpler for buyers to choose homes that are both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

E.ON is bringing some festive cheer early this year, offering customers three full days of free electricity over the Christmas period.

The offer, running from 24–26 December 2025, is part of the company’s new Next Direct 18-month tariff and is designed to help households enjoy the holidays without worrying about rising energy costs.

For many, the festive season means more cooking, more lights, and more time at home – and E.ON’s gift could ease the pressure on household bills during one of the busiest times of the year.

How will the free electricity will be applied?

Customers who sign up to the Next Direct 18m v1 tariff will receive free electricity for three full days – Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

The discount will be applied as a bill credit within 30 days, based on the customer’s actual electricity consumption and standing charges during that period. All usage between 00:00:01 on 24 December and 23:59:59 on 26 December 2025 will be included.

Julian Lennertz, Chief Commercial Officer at E.ON Next, said: “With our holiday gift of three days of free electricity, we want to help our customers enjoy what matters most – without worrying about the cost.”

Who qualifies for the offer?

The deal is open to both new and existing customers who switch to the Next Direct 18m v1 tariff by 12 December 2025.

To be eligible, households need to have a working smart meter and homeowners must opt in to share half-hourly consumption data.

The tariff, priced at £1,600 for a typical dual-fuel household, is currently the cheapest 18-month fixed product on the market, according to E.ON Next.

What customers need to do?

Eligible customers simply need to sign up to the Next Direct 18m v1 tariff before the deadline to secure the three days of free electricity.

E.ON Next will automatically track usage through the customer’s smart meter, so there is no need to submit readings or claim manually.

The company is also offering energy-saving tips by encouraging households to make the most of the festive period by using timers for Christmas lights, reducing screen time, lowering thermostats slightly and cooking more efficiently to keep energy use – and costs – down.

Floating solar panels are a growing trend around the world, and the UK seems to be cottoning on to their potential.

The government has just approved the largest floating solar panel project in Barrow in an attempt to generate cheap energy.

The project promises to solve one of the biggest problems with large-scale solar projects, the amount of land that they take up, meaning solar panels could become even more viable across the UK.

UK’s biggest floating solar project gets green light

The new installation at Cavendish Dock in Barrow will cover around 200,000m², roughly a third of the dock’s water surface.

About 47,000 solar panels will be installed on floating pontoons secured to the dock bed.

The project is expected to produce up to 40MWp of electricity, enough to power local port operations and nearby industry. Construction is planned so that existing dock activities can continue alongside the solar panels.

Floating solar is spreading fast worldwide

Floating solar has been growing rapidly across Asia, Europe, and North America. In 2024 alone, more than 1.8GW of floating solar capacity was added globally.

Large installations include China’s 320MW Dezhou plant, projects in Japan and India on reservoirs, and Europe’s hybrid systems on hydropower lakes.

Singapore and the Netherlands are investing in offshore and dock-based panels, while dual-axis tracking systems are used in some inland sites to boost energy output. Floating solar PV is expected to expand as countries seek ways to scale renewable energy efficiently.

A solution to the land-use problem

One key advantage of floating solar is that it doesn’t compete with farmland or green spaces.

In the UK, several of the country’s largest solar farms were approved last year, but they still faced criticism for taking up land, such as these three from last year that were the largest on record.

Floating projects on docks, reservoirs, and industrial ponds provide a way to expand solar capacity without using valuable land.

As pressure grows for renewable energy, water-based panels could become an increasingly important part of the UK’s energy mix, without drawing complaints from locals.

Every winter, many households will choose to decorate their gardens with an inflatable Santa and festive lights. I myself have just inflated my own giant Santa too, one my family has been playfully hoisting over the festive period for many years now.

With rising energy costs and growing concern over home electricity consumption, it's natural to wonder: do these cheerful decorations come with a hefty electricity bill?

This festive season, we look at how much your inflatable Santa will cost to run, from a small 4ft inflatable Santa all the way to a massive 12ft blow-up Father Christmas.

How much does an inflatable Santa cost to run per hour?

Here are typical estimates of electricity usage and what that means for running costs based on common inflation décor power draws and current energy rates from Utilita’s Power Price List.

Even a larger 10–12 ft Santa, running 6 hours each evening for a full week, costs only around £1–£2 per week to run.

Why inflatable Santa's are relatively low

While inflatable decorations draw a little electricity, they remain minor consumers compared with the heavy-duty appliances that dominate home energy use. According to a recent overview of household electricity usage:

• The biggest electricity drains are “wet” appliances, like washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers, which use large amounts of power for heating water.
• Cold-appliance systems, fridges and freezers, run continuously to maintain temperature and make up a significant chunk of energy use.
• Everyday electronics (like TVs or consoles) and general household lighting are more significant energy users than a seasonal inflatable.

Because inflatable Santas typically draw only tens to low hundreds of watts, and only when in use, their relative impact on your overall electricity bill remains small.

What impacts real-world cost and how to stay efficient

The actual cost of running a garden inflatable depends on a few simple but important factors:

• Size and blower/light power: Bigger blowers and brighter lights increase wattage.
• Hours run per day: Limiting use to a few hours in the evening keeps costs low.
• Electricity tariff/unit cost: Because your cost scales with the kWh rate (i.e. the energy price cap used by your supplier).
• Number of powered decorations/appliances running at once: The more items drawing power simultaneously (inflatables, lights, TVs, chargers), the higher the total draw.
• Standby/power-draining “vampire devices” : Gadgets left plugged in or on standby can quietly draw extra electricity over time.

If you stick to a modest-sized inflatable (such as a 4 ft or 7–8 ft Santa), run it for limited hours, and avoid unnecessary standby draw, you can enjoy festive décor at minimal cost.

Inflatable Santas, from smaller 4ft versions to larger 10–12ft ones, generally use only ten to a few hundred watts.

Running one for a few hours each evening adds just a few pence per hour, and even less than £2 a week for most households under current rates.

Because bigger energy drains come from appliances like washing machines, fridges and standby electronics, an inflatable Santa remains a low-cost festive choice, provided you manage overall electricity usage sensibly.

The government has scrapped the ECO4 scheme, which previously helped homeowners access thousands of pounds’ worth of energy-efficiency upgrades such as insulation, solar panels, and heat pumps.

Homeowners can no longer claim any of this support, meaning those who had hoped to cut energy bills or make their homes greener through government funding will now need to cover the costs themselves.

We look at what the cancellation means for homeowners, energy price rises, and what support is still available to upgrade homes.

ECO4 cancellation and what it means

ECO4, the fourth phase of the Energy Company Obligation, was designed to help low-income households improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

The scheme funded upgrades including loft and wall insulation, underfloor heating, solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and more. Thousands of homeowners across the UK benefitted, reducing both energy bills and carbon emissions.

With the scheme now cancelled, homeowners who were previously eligible can no longer claim funding for these improvements.

Any plans to install insulation, heat pumps, or solar panels with government support will need to be funded privately, which could cost thousands of pounds.

What support is still available?

In place of ECO4, the government is delivering energy-efficiency and low-carbon heating upgrades through the Warm Homes Plan, managed by local authorities.

The scheme targets low-income homeowners and private renters, providing grants to improve insulation, heating systems, and other energy-saving measures. It’s important to note that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme remains active and unaffected by the ECO4 cancellation.

Becky Lane, CEO of Furbnow, a leading home energy renovation company, gave her reaction to the ECO4 cut: “Scrapping ECO is the right call, but cutting £1.7 billion from the sector that keeps Britain warm is a huge shock. That money has to go straight into the Warm Homes Plan and into local teams who actually do the work. If it doesn’t, we won’t have the people or the businesses needed to fix Britain’s cold, drafty homes.”

She also warned about long-term energy costs, stating: “A temporary £150 bill cut won’t stop the fact that UK energy costs are structurally too high and our homes waste far too much heat. The Budget temporarily cuts bills by moving renewables costs, but these costs come straight back onto households in a few years’ time.”

Homeowners eligible for the Warm Homes Plan should contact their local council to check if they can receive funding for insulation, heating upgrades, or low-carbon technologies. Acting early may help secure support before local allocations are used up.

How homeowners are affected

The cancellation of ECO4 marks a major shift for households that previously relied on government support to make energy-efficiency improvements.

Homeowners outside low-income or benefit-receiving brackets will now have to cover the full cost of upgrades themselves, potentially making energy-saving improvements less accessible.

For those who can still access grants through local authorities, the Warm Homes Plan provides a pathway to make homes warmer and greener. Homeowners are encouraged to stay informed, check eligibility, and apply early to take advantage of available support.

Many UK homeowners are unaware that they could be losing heat through their uPVC windows by not adjusting the settings, causing their energy bills to rise.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, properly draught‑proofing around windows could save around £85 a year in Great Britain, so even small adjustments can make a real difference to comfort and costs.

By adjusting a hidden setting in the window locking mechanism, homeowners can press the sash tighter, reducing draughts. I tried it out on my Victorian draughty home to show you the impact it had and how easy it was to do.

What is the hidden setting on uPVC windows?

The key lies in the small “mushroom” cam pieces (and their matching keeps) inside your uPVC window's locking hardware.

These are part of the locking mechanism and, if set correctly, pull the sash tightly into the rubber seal when you close the window.

That “compression” determines how well the window stops draughts: more compression equals a tighter seal and less heat escaping.

How to adjust your uPVC windows for winter weather

Adjusting your uPVC windows is a relatively simple job that shouldn't take much time.

You can do this with just one tool, an Allen key. However, some uPVC windows may require a screwdriver depending on your window type, but the process is still the same. You need to do the following:

1. Open the window and inspect the locking edge. Look for the mushroom-shaped cam and the corresponding keep (a small plate) on the frame.
2. Use an Allen key to rotate the mushroom cam a little, or move the keep slightly if it’s mounted in a slotted hole. Try turning or shifting it by just a millimeter or a quarter turn clockwise.
3. Close the window and check how the sash feels: if it’s too hard to lock, loosen a bit; if it’s too loose, tighten more. Do this gradually and test after each tweak.

How much impact does it have?

So how much difference does this actually make?

Well I decided to test this by using the world's smallest thermal camera to see the before and after effect from adjusting my windows settings.

Prior to adjusting, the seal of my uPVC window was a low 9.0°C, meaning the cold air outside was invading my home at quite a high rate.

A day after draught proofing the window the temperature was now 11.2°C without me having to raise my thermostat or make any other changes, meaning my home was no longer losing as much heat.

So it just goes to show that a small change can make a big difference to your home's heating, but if your want to have good ventilation in the summer you will need to turn the mushroom back on your uPVC windows and doors to its summer setting to loosen the seal.

A quiet Essex bungalow has become the unlikely test bed for a new way of heating homes using recycled energy from tiny computers.

At a time when energy price rises have pushed many households to look for alternatives, the couple living there have turned their garden shed into a working “energy room” that now powers most of their heat and hot water.

The result is a dramatic fall in their monthly bills, dropping from around £375 to as little as £40.

Data workloads become heat in a garden shed

Terrence and Lesley Bridges, who live in a two-bedroom bungalow near Braintree, are the first household in the country to replace their traditional gas boiler with a HeatHub – a compact data centre installed in their brick shed.

The unit contains more than 500 Raspberry Pi computers immersed in oil; as they process data for paying clients, the waste heat is captured and transferred into the home’s hot water and radiator system.

Their shed has effectively become a small-scale boiler room powered not by combustion or electricity bills, but by 'computational' work carried out on behalf of third-party customers.

Bills collapse under the new heating model

The trial is part of UK Power Networks’ SHIELD programme, which aims to find low-cost, low-carbon heating solutions for households on modest incomes.

Because Thermify, the company behind the HeatHub, earns revenue from clients who pay to run their digital workloads on the hardware, the electricity used by the computers is covered by that data-processing business model.

Combined with solar panels and solar batteries also installed under the SHIELD scheme, the Bridges’ total monthly energy spend has plunged to £40–£60 – a reduction of almost 90%.

“SHIELD is our flagship innovation project,” said Jack McKellar, UK Power Networks’ innovation programme manager.

McKellar said the initiative directly supports the company’s consumer vulnerability and fuel poverty strategy: “We don’t want anyone to miss out on the benefits of new and emerging technologies as the UK moves towards a greener future. This project combines cutting-edge kit with a pioneering Social Energy Services Company model to help households save money and reduce emissions.”

Outbuildings become utility hubs in emerging energy trend

While this is the first household to adopt a data-heated home, the trial signals a broader shift in how UK homes may be powered in the coming decade.

The modest garden shed, once an optional extra in property listings, is increasingly becoming a vital space for housing modern energy hardware, including solar inverters, batteries, heat stores and now data-centre modules.

Over the next four years, up to 300 homes across the East and South East will join the trial. Backed by Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund, UK Power Networks intends to gather enough evidence to scale the system dramatically.

“We aim to scale this up to 100,000 units annually by 2030,” McKellar said, calling the trial an important step in delivering affordable, sustainable energy solutions nationwide.

The UK has just hit its highest level of rooftop solar panel installations ever recorded, making 2025 a landmark year for home energy.

New data from MCS shows that solar has already passed the previous peak set back in 2011, with households and new-build developers installing panels at record speed.

Falling upfront costs, changing building rules, and a growing desire for cheaper, home-grown power are all pushing the numbers up. Many experts say solar is now moving from a “nice-to-have” to a normal feature of homes across the country.

UK rooftop solar installations hit all-time high

Rooftop solar in the UK has reached a new all-time high in 2025, with the number of certified solar panel installations surpassing 203,125 – beating the long-standing record from 2011.

This pushes the total number of certified solar systems nationwide to 1.85 million, marking the strongest year the sector has ever seen.

A major driver behind this rise is the rapid growth of solar on newly built homes. Since MCS started tracking new-build installations in October 2023, more than 139,000 properties have been fitted with panels, representing nearly one-third of all installations in that period. The share has grown further in 2025, and June broke the monthly record with 9,507 new-build solar installations.

With the Future Homes Standard set to be confirmed later this year – requiring most new homes to include low-carbon technologies by 2027 – the new-build market is expected to keep climbing.

Policies and new homes are powering the solar surge

Developers and homeowners are responding to both lower solar costs and clearer government expectations about future building rules.

Solar is becoming a common way to meet energy targets and cut running costs, especially as new housing developments aim to future-proof properties against rising energy prices.

The combination of strong demand, supportive policy and a rapidly expanding installer base has created the conditions for the biggest year the rooftop solar sector has ever seen. For many households, the appeal is simple: lower bills, greater energy independence and a more efficient home.

Which UK regions are leading the solar revolution?

While solar growth is strong across the country, certain areas are taking the lead. According to the latest MCS figures:

• Somerset – 3,741 installations in 2025
• Cornwall – 3,726 installations
• North Yorkshire – 2,780 installations
• County Durham – 2,668 installations
• Wiltshire – 2,545 installations

These top-performing regions show that both rural and urban areas are embracing, what Ed Miliband, the Energy Minister, has termed a "rooftop revolution", with strong activity across the South West, North, and Midlands.

Battery storage is also rising sharply alongside solar. Certified home solar batteries – used to store extra solar power – have jumped 122% compared with the same period last year, reaching around 59,000 in total.

This trend suggests more households want greater control over their energy use and the ability to make the most of the power they generate.

Two UK solar panel firms have been shut down after taking more than £3 million from pensioners through a refund scam that promised government-backed grants to cover installation and maintenance costs.

The Insolvency Service confirmed that Trident West Industries Ltd and Star Solar Ltd misled dozens of homeowners with cold calls and doorstep sales.

The case has reignited warnings for anyone investing in home energy systems to double-check company credentials before signing contracts.

What happened in the £3 million solar scam

Investigators found that sales representatives from both companies targeted elderly homeowners – with an average victim age of 76 - promising government refunds that never existed.

Between May 2023 and January 2025, more than £3.1 million flowed through the companies’ accounts, yet only £7,010 was returned to nine complainants.

Despite multiple County Court Judgments worth over £400,000, the promised equipment and maintenance services were rarely delivered, leaving homeowners out of pocket and without support.

Why it matters for renovators and self-builders

With energy costs high and grants available for green technology, more homeowners are exploring solar options during renovation projects.

But this case highlights the growing number of rogue traders using “green refund” or “solar grant” claims to pressure homeowners into quick decisions.

Money Saving expert, Martin Lewis, gives this advice to avoid solar panel scams: “Use MCS-accredited installers – this ensures work meets industry standards and is properly documented. Never sign under pressure – take your time to review quotes and options before you sign for work.”

How to protect yourself from solar scams

If you’re planning to install solar panels, the Insolvency Service advises researching firms via Companies House and the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC).

Avoid unsolicited offers and be wary of anyone claiming to “upgrade” existing panels for a government refund - a red flag in this case.

Always request written quotes, cooling-off terms, and proof of scheme participation before handing over money.

Fires linked to rooftop solar panels are rising sharply across the UK, sparking concern among fire services and insurers.

New figures show that incidents are growing faster than installations, raising questions about safety oversight in Britain’s clean-energy rollout.

Experts say that while solar remains safe when properly installed, a surge in rushed or poorly maintained systems is putting homes at risk.

How many fires are happening

UK fire services attended 171 solar-related fires in 2024, up from 107 in 2022, according to analysis by insurer QBE.

That equates to roughly one fire every two days, even though rooftop installations grew by only 29.6% during that period. Most of these incidents - 97 in 2024 - occurred in homes.

This has led to concerns that this trend could continue as solar adoption accelerates, with the UK recording a 22% increase in solar panel installations in the first half of 2025, amounting to more than 99,500 new systems.

What’s behind the rise in solar panel fires

Experts point to several key causes behind the uptick in fires. Inverters, the devices that convert solar power into electricity for home use, are the most common source of ignition when placed in cramped lofts or unventilated spaces.

Lithium-ion batteries, increasingly used for storage, can also pose risks if poorly installed or damaged.

Adrian Simmonds, Property Risk Solutions Practice Leader at QBE, says solar power remains crucial to the UK’s clean-energy future but the pace of rollout is exposing weak spots in safety and training.

He says most fires in 2024 began in the inverter or panel itself, components that can overheat when installation or ventilation is inadequate.

What homeowners should watch out for

Fire-risk specialists agree that most solar fires are preventable through good practice.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said it was “concerned” that the government’s push to ease rooftop solar panel rollout did not adequately consider building and fire‑safety risks”.

A spokesperson for the National Fire Chiefs Council says homeowners should view solar systems as complex electrical equipment that needs routine checks just like a boiler or wiring inspection.

Dougie Barnett, risk-director at AXA UK, adds that insurers are seeing more claims linked to installation faults and battery failures, noting that “poor workmanship and skipped inspections are driving many of these incidents.”

Homeowners are advised to ensure their systems are installed by certified professionals, keep solar panels clean and clear of debris, and position solar batteries away from living spaces.

Regular servicing and inspection, experts say, are simple steps that can dramatically reduce the chance of fire while keeping rooftop solar a safe and sustainable part of the UK’s net-zero transition.