Dan Redfern of Marley predicts that integrating renewable technology on the roof will a key solution for self-builders seeking the balance between sustainable yet still aesthetically pleasing homes
Of the 200,000 new homes being built in the UK, around 10% include solar PV on the roof. However, this figure is continuing to rise dramatically, as homeowners seek out lower cost energy sources and renewable technologies for a more energy efficient future.
For the self-build market, this drive for sustainability must also balance aesthetic considerations, with the legislative pressures to deliver eye-catching and low carbon homes of the future.
The self-build market, much like housebuilders, is currently facing a series of challenges when it comes to constructing new homes.
Interest rate rises over the past year which have led to dearer mortgages for many, combined with high inflation levels that are only now beginning to decline, have contributed to a challenging economic landscape and the onset of a current cost-of-living crisis. The result is more cautious consumers.
The amendments to Part L of the Building Regulations ahead of 2025’s Future Homes Standard, means increased legislative pressure is on the housebuilding sector to develop and build energy efficient homes that satisfy carbon reduction targets.
But, just as importantly, those building their own homes must also remain laser focused on creating properties that combine the right level of sustainability investment to help future proof their property, without compromising on creating an aesthetically pleasing design.
The inclusion of renewable technology solutions such as heat pumps and better insulation are among the practical ways self-builders are tackling the energy efficiency challenge.
Working together
Efforts to combine attractive aesthetics with proven, affordable, and accepted renewable technologies, mean many self-builders are drawn to the benefits of an integrated solar PV roofing solution. When panels are installed as part of an integrated roof system, the powerful combination can produce outstanding kerbside appeal.
While some may have had concerns about the past appearance of bulky, on-roof solar panels, today’s options have moved on.
Simply replacing a section of roof tiles affords the space for a solar PV array to become a fully connected and sleek part of the overall roof aesthetic. There is also the construction cost benefit derived from specifying fewer roof tiles. This is particularly relevant in the light of solar PV system costs that have also reduced dramatically over the past decade.
From an installation perspective, integrated solar panels can be included at the same time as the rest of the clay or concrete roof tiles and without a specialist contractor. This ensures construction turnaround times stay on track and are even improved.
And, with a Marley full roof system, the reassurance of a 15-year guarantee, available with solar PV, should not be underestimated. Five years more than the current NHBC standard, this protection level can be a compelling sales advantage when marketing the sustainability credentials of the property.
Buyer interest
For those still unconvinced of the growth of solar PV, our own research has highlighted that almost half of UK households (49%) have considered installing solar panels on their roof. For the overwhelming majority, their primary motivation was to reduce their energy bills because of the hikes in energy cost in recent years, followed by a wish to generate their own power (63%) and to decrease their carbon emissions (46%).
Providing homeowners with the means to access cheaper and flexible energy sources such as solar is a growing consumer expectation as they seek not only lower energy costs, but also access a sustainable solution as climate change concerns only grow more intense.
Companies such as Marley can support self-builders through the creation and availability of a high performing renewable energy package. Integrated solar panel systems, EV charging technology, hybrid inverters and battery storage can be implemented to provide power from the roof, through the home, to the road.
Dan Redfern is head of marketing communications at Marley