Daniel Redfern, from Marley, gives five top tips on getting ready for the carbon cutting Part L changes.
June 2022 sees the introduction of some significant amendments to Part L regulations, as a stepping-stone to the Future Homes Standard 2025. The changes will require all new build homes to achieve a 31 per cent reduction in carbon emissions, which will be achieved through a combination of fabric efficiency improvements and the use of energy saving technology, such as solar PV or heat pumps.
While under the Future Homes Standard 2025, it is anticipated that heat pumps will be the primary source of heating in new homes, in the short term, housebuilders will be looking for the easiest and most cost-effective solution. Therefore, to meet the initial 31 per cent reduction, it is expected that an efficient gas boiler, combined with solar PV on the roof, will be the favoured option.
For contractors, who already offer pitched roof installation, this represents a significant opportunity to add solar PV to their services. So, with just a few months to go, how can contractors get ready for Part L?
- Familiarise yourself with the Part L changes
The new Part L will introduce the requirement to have renewable technology on all new homes, updated thermal element U values, measures to prevent overheating and changes to how energy running costs will be measured. From June 2022, there will be a one-year transition period but if work hasn’t started on a building by this date, then it will be subject to the new requirements. Also, remember that if you’re refurbishing more than 50 per cent of the roof, then Part L comes into effect; the whole of that roof must then be brought up to the thermal efficiency demanded by the regulations.
- Boost business by adding solar PV services
Adding solar services is now much easier than in the past, thanks to new integrated PV systems that are much simpler to install. Our Marley SolarTile simply replaces a section of roof tiles, acting as a MCS 012 approved building material and becoming a seamless part of the roof design. It is designed with a simple push fit connection, so can be installed by a roofer, along with the rest of the tiles, up until the point of electrical connection and sign off. At this stage, contractors can then either partner with an electrician to complete the connection and final sign off, or become MCS Certified themselves.
- Consider MCS accreditation
Being MCS Certified means you can offer solar services yourself, including managing the process and pricing for customers. As well as giving your customers, peace of mind and consumer protection, the certification can also help you grow your business, as people will often search for an MCS Certified Installer. That’s why as part of our ‘Supporting the Roofer’ initiative, all roofing businesses can claim a £50 discount on their MCS Certification application. Simply visit www.marley.co.uk/mcsapply
- Look for free training opportunities
To help contractors make the most of solar PV opportunities and gain confidence in installation, we will be running free training courses throughout 2022. To see how simple it is to install the tiles, you can also view demonstration videos at www.marley.co.uk/solarinstall
- Use free tools
We have a free online configurator on our website, which builds an array of panels for you. All you need to do is fill in the grid to place the panels in position and the system works out which flashing kits are needed and produces a price. It even calculates the kWp output, so you can easily achieve the required performance.
If you have any queries about getting started with solar, visit www.marley.co.uk/solar
