Will solar panels become as common as radiators?

Article date : 04/03/2010

Britons may be keener to make their homes energy efficient by investing in solar panels or wind power, after it was suggested plans are in place to ensure such improvements are reflected in the value of a property.

The government has consulted with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) over the proposals, after launching its green homes strategy this week.

Under the new scheme, Britons will be able to apply for a loan worth thousands of pounds to put towards making their homes more energy efficient and reducing their carbon emissions - such as by installing solar panels.

This debt would then be attached to the home and paid back through utility bills.

Barry Hall, a spokesman for Rics, told the Guardian that the way such improvements are likely to push up house prices will be similar to how central heating systems achieved the same effect years ago.

While many people began by installing a back boiler and one radiator in their upstairs hall, when they were pleased with this system they began to install more radiators throughout their property, he said.

Mr Hall added the rise in popularity of central heating systems ultimately filtered through to house prices, with the Guardian adding: "Now properties that don't have up-to-date central heating are likely to be down valued."

Written by Jasper Cullen

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