The policy shift under discussion
The Conservative Party has floated scrapping the Future Homes Standard, which requires new homes in England to cut carbon emissions by at least 75% compared with 2013 builds. This would mean no mandatory heat pumps, high insulation or solar panels on most new properties. The final rules were published in March 2026 and are due to apply from March 2027, with full effect after a transitional year.
Extra costs for first-time buyers
A climate change think tank has warned that removing the standard would be a "disaster for first time buyers" and act as a "new homes tax". Without the efficiency measures, new owners could pay an extra £1,000 a year in energy bills by relying on gas boilers instead of heat pumps and solar. The change is pitched as a way to speed up housebuilding, yet it shifts long-term running costs onto households.
Steps you can take now
Policy aside, we can all cut usage on existing homes. Smart meters give real-time data through supplier apps, while loft and wall insulation plus draught-proofing stop heat escaping. Pairing solar panels with battery storage further reduces grid reliance. Fuse Energy's recent piece on a Milton Keynes retrofit shows how these measures delivered zero bills for one family.
Comparing your options
We track tariffs that reward off-peak use and reward efficiency upgrades. Head to our energy comparison pages to see what deals suit your home and usage. Checking your options regularly keeps bills under control even if national standards change.
