New social homes that commence after the transitional period must meet the Future Homes Standard like any other new home. This page covers the procurement, ownership and tenant questions that come up on social housing schemes.
Social and Affordable Homes Programme
The £39bn Social and Affordable Homes Programme runs from 2026 to 2036. Homes it funds must meet the Building Regulations in force for them, including the Future Homes Standard. Check the current capital funding guide from Homes England, or from the GLA in London, for any additional specification requirements.
Ownership models for social housing solar
Three models are common: (1) the array is part of the home and the generation benefits the tenant directly through lower bills; (2) the landlord owns the array and sells the electricity to tenants; (3) a third party owns the array under a long-term agreement with the landlord.
Tenant benefit
Solar PV can cut tenants’ electricity bills, which matters for fuel poverty. Where the landlord or a third party sells the electricity, structure the arrangement so the benefit reaches the tenant, and check the regulatory requirements that apply.
Retrofit funding does not apply to new builds
Schemes such as the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund and ECO4 fund upgrades to existing homes, not new construction. New-build social housing is funded through capital programmes such as the one above.
Procurement frameworks
Registered providers usually procure through public procurement frameworks (for example LHC, Procure Plus or CHIC), which let them appoint contractors without running a full tender each time. Check that the installer or main contractor is on the framework you intend to use.