Solar Panels on New Builds: What Architects and Developers Need to Know

As the UK accelerates its journey toward a net-zero economy, the role of architects, developers, and planners in shaping sustainable buildings has never been more critical. One technology at the heart of this shift is solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. No longer an afterthought or retrofit solution, solar panels are becoming a standard feature in the design and construction of new residential, commercial, or mixed-use buildings.

For architects and developers, integrating solar PV into new builds requires careful planning and an understanding of key technical, regulatory, and financial considerations. Factors such as optimal roof orientation, structural load bearing, system design integration, and planning permission requirements must be accounted for at the earliest stages to avoid costly redesigns or missed opportunities for energy efficiency gains.

This article examines the key considerations for architects and developers in the UK when evaluating solar panels for new build projects. By planning for solar from the outset, project teams can deliver future-ready, resilient buildings aligned with the UK’s low-carbon ambitions.

Key Takeaways:

• Including solar PV systems at the planning and design stage of new builds allows architects and developers to meet Part L Building Regulations and Future Homes Standards more efficiently.
• Installing solar supports compliance with local authority requirements for low-carbon technologies and contributes to achieving BREEAM and other environmental certifications.
• Designing for solar from the outset avoids costly retrofits, ensures optimal roof orientation and space, and helps coordinate load-bearing considerations and cabling infrastructure.
• Homes and commercial buildings with solar are more attractive to buyers and tenants, offering energy cost savings, improved EPC ratings, and long-term sustainability credentials.
• Collaborating with specialists like EvoEnergy ensures tailored system design, regulatory compliance, and smooth integration with other building systems during construction.
• With the UK construction sector under pressure to decarbonise, solar energy is a practical and scalable technology that aligns with national and local climate goals for new developments.

Why Incorporate Solar Panels from the Outset?

Incorporating solar panels on new builds from the outset offers significant advantages over retrofitting systems later. Early integration allows architects and developers to plan roof spaces, orientations, and structures with solar performance in mind. This avoids costly adjustments post-construction and maximises energy output. Moreover, solar panels on new builds can enhance a property’s energy performance certificate (EPC) rating, making the development more attractive to investors and tenants alike. With rising energy prices, including solar panels on new builds offers owners both environmental and financial gains.

Key UK Planning Regulations and Building Standards

When planning solar panels on new builds, architects and developers must learn the UK’s complex regulatory environment.

• Part L Building Regulations: Part L of the Building Regulations focuses on conserving fuel and power in buildings, requiring new developments to meet specific energy efficiency targets.
• SAP Compliance: The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculates a building’s energy rating. Integrating solar panels on new builds can significantly enhance SAP scores by offsetting grid energy consumption with clean, renewable power, making it easier for developers to meet or exceed minimum energy performance standards.
• Local Planning Requirements: While most new builds can integrate solar panels under permitted development rights, developers should always check local planning requirements, particularly in conservation areas or listed buildings, where stricter regulations may apply. Early consultation with planning authorities can help avoid delays.
• Regional Policies: Many regions have sustainability or energy policies that go beyond national requirements. For example, the London Plan encourages on-site renewable energy generation for new developments. Aligning solar panels on new builds with these local policies can improve project approval chances and demonstrate environmental leadership.

Design Integration Considerations for Architects and Developers

Integrating solar panels on new builds at the design stage ensures maximum energy output and cost-effectiveness. Key considerations include roof orientation, with south-facing roofs providing optimal generation in the UK climate.

• Roof Orientation: Design for south-facing roofs to maximise energy generation, though east-west can also deliver acceptable yields if site constraints exist.
• Tilt and Pitch: Aim for a roof pitch between 30 and 40 degrees, which aligns closely with the UK’s optimal solar production angle and balances seasonal sunlight availability.
• Structural Load Checks: Conduct early structural assessments to confirm the roof can handle the additional loads from panels, mounting hardware, and environmental factors like snow and wind.
• Aesthetic Integration: Use in-roof systems or solar tiles where aesthetics are key, ensuring the solar panels on new builds complement the overall building design while delivering clean energy.

Solar Technology Options for New Builds

Solar panels on new builds can utilise various technologies depending on the project’s design and performance goals.

• Monocrystalline Panels: Monocrystalline panels are widely used in commercial projects due to their high efficiency, compact size, and uniform dark appearance. This makes them suitable for solar panels on new builds where roof space is limited and developers seek both maximum output and an aesthetically pleasing finish.
• Polycrystalline Panels: Polycrystalline panels provide a more cost-effective alternative, with slightly lower efficiency than monocrystalline panels. They have a blue-speckled look and are best suited for solar panels on new builds where budget constraints exist, and there is ample roof space to accommodate a larger system.
• Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) and Solar Roof Tiles: For developments where design and visual integration are a priority, BIPV and solar tiles offer an elegant solution. These systems replace conventional roof materials, directly blending solar technology into the building’s architecture. This makes them ideal for solar panels on new builds with strict design requirements or where planners prefer a discreet installation.
• Smart Inverters and Monitoring Systems: Modern inverters and monitoring technologies allow building owners to oversee energy production, system performance, and real-time fault detection. This ensures that solar panels on new builds maintain optimal output and supports proactive maintenance to protect the system’s long-term value.

Cost Implications and Financial Considerations

Cost is often a key concern for developers considering solar panels on new builds. While the upfront investment can vary depending on system size, type, and integration method, the long-term savings and improved building value typically outweigh these costs. The payback period for solar panels on new builds can range from 5 to 10 years, depending on energy usage and export arrangements. Developers may also benefit from incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and capital allowances, further improving the financial case for solar panels on new builds.

Achieving Sustainability Targets and Certifications

Solar panels on new builds play a vital role in helping developments achieve key sustainability certifications and corporate ESG goals.

• BREEAM and EPC Compliance: Solar panels on new builds help improve key sustainability benchmarks such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings. By generating clean, renewable energy on-site, buildings can achieve higher scores, demonstrating better energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
• Net-Zero Carbon Support: Solar panels on new builds offer a reliable way to cut operational emissions for developments aiming to meet net-zero carbon objectives. By offsetting a portion of the building’s electricity demand with renewable energy, developers can lower grid dependency and support their decarbonisation strategies.
• ESG Contributions: Solar panels on new builds also support Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments, providing measurable sustainability actions that can be reported to stakeholders. This strengthens corporate responsibility credentials and aligns with investor expectations for greener portfolios.
• Enhanced Market Appeal: Incorporating solar panels on new builds can increase the attractiveness of properties to tenants, buyers, and investors who prioritise sustainable, future-ready buildings. This can improve lease rates, reduce void periods, and strengthen the asset’s long-term value.

Best Practices for Smooth Solar Panel Integration?

Ensuring the success of solar panels on new builds requires early collaboration between project teams and renewable energy specialists.

• Early Engagement: The most effective solar panels on new builds are those where renewable energy consultants are involved right from the concept stage. Early engagement allows for the solar system to be designed harmoniously with the building’s layout, structural considerations, and energy strategy, reducing costly changes later in the project.
• Collaboration Across Disciplines: Close coordination between architects, mechanical and electrical (M&E) consultants, structural engineers, and contractors ensures that solar panels on new builds are smoothly integrated with other building systems. This helps avoid design conflicts and ensures all technical requirements, including wiring, structural supports, and energy management systems, are factored into the build.
• Roof Space Planning: Allocating enough roof space is essential not only for the initial solar PV system but also to allow for potential future expansion. Keeping the roof clear of obstructions such as HVAC equipment and skylights can maximise solar coverage and simplify future upgrades.
• Maintenance Access and Planning: Designing the system with safe and practical access points ensures that solar panels on new builds can be maintained and cleaned efficiently over their lifespan. Provisions for walkways, edge protection, and safe working areas should be considered to protect the system and maintenance personnel.

How EvoEnergy Supports Developers and Architects?

EvoEnergy provides end-to-end support for solar panels on new builds, helping architects and developers navigate feasibility, system design, installation, and maintenance. Our team ensures projects meet all UK regulatory standards while maximising system performance and aesthetic integration. With a strong track record in the private and public sectors across mainland UK, EvoEnergy brings extensive experience in delivering commercial-scale solar solutions tailored to each development’s unique needs. By partnering with us, developers can ensure solar panels on new builds are seamlessly integrated, future-proof, and aligned with broader sustainability goals.

• Feasibility and Consultancy: Assess site potential and regulatory requirements.
  
• Design and Engineering: Provide tailored system designs integrated with building plans.
  
• Installation and Project Management: Deliver turnkey solutions with minimal disruption.
  
• Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance: Ensure solar panels on new builds perform efficiently long-term.

Future-Proofing Developments with Solar

Solar panels on new builds are no longer a luxury, they are a strategic investment that enhances energy efficiency, meets regulatory requirements, and boosts property value. By incorporating solar from the outset, architects and developers can deliver buildings that meet the demands of a low-carbon, future-ready economy. Early integration ensures seamless design, cost efficiencies, and long-term energy savings for building owners.

To explore how much carbon and energy your new development could save, try out EvoEnergy’s Solar Panel Calculator, a simple way to visualise your potential savings and system size.
If you’re planning a project and want expert guidance, visit EvoEnergy’s Renewable Energy Services to see how we can support you from design to installation and long-term maintenance.