The Future Homes Standard (FHS) is an important step in improving the energy performance of new homes in England. It forms part of the Government’s plan to reduce carbon emissions from buildings and support the transition to low-carbon heating.
Low-carbon heating for new homes
Under the Future Homes Standard, new homes will be designed to be highly energy efficient and built to operate with low-carbon heating technologies. This approach supports long-term carbon reduction as the UK electricity grid continues to decarbonise.
While gas boilers are not formally banned, meeting the requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations will be challenging without using low-carbon heating technologies, such as air source heat pumps. As a result, heat pumps are expected to play a central role in heating new homes built under the standard.
Key elements of the Future Homes Standard
Significantly lower emissions
New homes must produce 75–80% lower carbon emissions compared with homes built to the 2013 Building Regulations.
Low-carbon heating
Heat pumps are expected to become the primary heating technology for new homes, helping move the sector away from fossil fuel systems.
Reduced overheating risk
Part O of the Building Regulations becomes mandatory. This addresses overheating risks in highly insulated and airtight homes, helping maintain comfortable indoor temperatures during warmer months.
Solar panels on new homes
The majority of new homes are expected to include solar photovoltaic panels, helping generate renewable electricity on site and reducing reliance on grid power.
Stricter performance testing
Every new home will require individual airtightness testing to verify performance. The previous approach of sample testing will no longer be permitted.
What this means for existing homes
The Future Homes Standard applies to new homes only. There is no requirement to remove existing gas boilers from homes where they are already installed.
For developers and homeowners looking ahead, technologies such as Daikin heat pumps offer an efficient, low-carbon way to heat and cool modern homes while supporting the UK’s wider carbon-reduction goals.
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