How to Plan Electrical Infrastructure for Solar-Ready New Builds

With global solar capacity projected to reach 593 GW of new installations in 2024 (ember-energy.org), property developers face a critical decision: plan for solar integration now or risk costly retrofits later. In the UK alone, solar capacity has reached 17 GW as of October 2024 (sunsave.energy), highlighting the growing demand for solar-ready homes.

This guide looks at how to effectively plan and implement electrical infrastructure for solar-ready new builds, ensuring developments meet both current demands and future energy requirements.

Building the Foundation for Solar Ready Homes

Planning for solar integration begins at the foundation of your electrical infrastructure design. The main service panels must accommodate both immediate needs and future solar capacity, with particular attention to bi-directional power flow capabilities.

Key components include:

• Robust distribution boards with additional capacity
• Strategic conduit placement and cable routing
• Smart metering infrastructure integration points
• Underground service routes, properly mapped and documented
• Dedicated solar circuit breaker spaces
• Appropriate surge protection systems

For housebuilders and developers, getting these elements right from the start prevents costly retrofitting and enhances the marketability of new properties.

Development Planning for a Sustainable Future

When developing solar-ready properties, early-stage design integration is crucial. Working with experienced multi-utility providers like Aptus ensures that your electrical infrastructure meets both immediate needs and future solar requirements.

Consider these essential factors:

1. Load Calculations and Capacity Planning

Your electrical infrastructure must account for both standard residential power requirements and potential solar generation capacity. This includes:

• Accurate assessment of future power generation potential
• Strategic placement of electrical connection points
• Integration with smart metering systems
• Allowance for battery storage systems
• Optimised roof orientation for maximum solar efficiency
• Reinforced roof structures for panel installation
• Pre-installed mounting points

2. Future-Proofing Measures

Including provisions for solar integration during the initial build phase offers significant cost advantages compared to retrofitting.

Essential considerations include:

• Installation of appropriate conduit pathways from roof to distribution board
• Allocation of space for inverters and control equipment
• Implementation of suitable earthing arrangements
• Planning for potential energy storage solutions
• Dedicated electrical rooms with adequate ventilation

Implementing Solar Ready Infrastructure

Successful implementation requires close collaboration between developers and utility providers. Aptus works alongside housebuilders to ensure all electrical infrastructure meets current regulations while providing the flexibility needed for future solar installations.

Documentation plays a crucial role in this process. You should have detailed electrical plans which should clearly indicate:

• Designated solar connection points
• Cable routing pathways
• Load capacity calculations
• Future expansion zones
• Underground service route mapping

The Business Case for Solar Ready Developments

Investing in solar-ready infrastructure offers compelling advantages for developers. According to recent data (ecohappy.co.uk), solar panels can increase property values by up to 25%, making the initial investment particularly attractive.

Additional benefits include:

Market Value

Properties with pre-installed solar infrastructure command premium market positions. With domestic solar installations making up the majority of UK installations, buyers increasingly seek homes that can easily accommodate renewable energy systems.

Regulatory Compliance

As building regulations evolve to meet climate change targets, solar-ready infrastructure helps ensure compliance with current and anticipated requirements. This proactive approach can save significant resources in the long term.

Cost Efficiencies

While initial planning for solar integration requires additional consideration, the cost implications are minimal compared to retrofitting. With typical solar panel payback periods of 6-8 years (ecohappy.co.uk), early integration makes properties more attractive to potential buyers by reducing future installation costs by up to 60%.

Expert Solutions from Aptus

As a nationwide multi-utility provider, Aptus specialises in delivering tailor-made utility solutions that accommodate future solar installations. Our expertise in electrical infrastructure ensures that your development’s power systems are designed and implemented with solar integration in mind from the outset.

Our technical teams work closely with developers throughout the planning and implementation phases, providing expert guidance on system specifications, layout considerations, and regulatory compliance. This collaborative approach ensures optimal results while minimising potential complications.

Taking the Next Step

Planning electrical infrastructure for solar-ready new builds requires careful consideration and expertise. By partnering with Aptus, developers can ensure their projects are future-proofed while maintaining cost-effectiveness and regulatory compliance.

To discuss your development’s electrical infrastructure requirements or to learn more about implementing solar-ready solutions, contact Aptus today. Our team of specialists can help you design and deliver electrical systems that meet both current needs and future solar integration requirements.

Published on 28th January 2025