Exploring the Future Homes Standard for New Builds

The Future Homes Standard is changing how we build homes to be “zero-carbon ready.” This means switching from gas heating to cleaner options such as heat pumps. 

Why is the Future Homes Standard being introduced?  

In the UK we are still building new homes which will need to be retrofitted by 2050¹ for us to meet net zero targets. This makes no sense. 

Under the proposed measures, every new build from 2025 will be installed with a heat pump, so that the homes don’t burn fossil fuels on-site to heat the property¹. 

Why are heat pumps the chosen technology for new build properties? 

Heat pumps are devices  that use electricity and heat energy from the air outside to heat your home’s water. This hot water is then pumped around your house through pipes and radiators, just like the hot water from your gas boiler.  

They work better than gas boilers too. They use up to 4 times less energy than even the most efficient boilers to generate the same amount of heat ². 

How can heat pumps help? 

For homeowners: 

• May save on energy bills. 

• Provide reliable heating and hot water for your home. 

For the environment: 

• Reduce carbon emissions by up to 80%². 

• Use less energy overall. 

Using heat pumps in new homes helps meet future rules and helps to create a cleaner planet. 

If you’d like to find out more about heat pumps, visit our heat pump page.  

Making the switch to a heat pump not only prepares your home for the future but also contributes to a sustainable environment for generations to come.

Footnotes 

¹ Future Homes Standard | UKGBC 

² Get A Heat Pump | Heat Pumps Explained | Octopus Energy | Octopus Energy 

Correct at time of publishing.