THE ENERGY INTERVIEW
CREDIT: BARRATT REDROW
HOW CAN A HOME BECOME ELIGIBLE FOR A ZERO BILLS TARIFF?
For new builds, the process runs parallel with the home’ s design. Octopus assesses the standard energy calculations required for building regulations and confirms the solar and battery specifications needed to achieve Zero Bills, factoring in the insulation, heat pump and size of the property.
Right now, the cost implications are substantial, but they are quickly decreasing. Nigel notes that the extra material cost for a new build has fallen from around £ 10,000( US $ 13,672) two and a half years ago to approximately £ 5,000( US $ 6,836) today. When factoring in installation and contractor margins, homeowners typically face an additional £ 10,000( US $ 13,672) to £ 15,000( US $ 20,508) cost.
However, this investment adds a great deal of value to the property.“ It’ s important to note that the home is expected to be worth more and valued more when you buy it and then in the future when you sell it because that home will continue to have zero bills on a new build for at least 10 years,” Nigel explains.
For existing homes, the proposition is more complex. Octopus estimates roughly one million UK homes have adequate roof space and suitable enough insulation levels to achieve a Zero Bills specification. For these properties, the retrofit cost typically ranges from £ 15,000( US $ 20,508) to £ 25,000( US $ 34,184), including a heat pump – which is now subsidised by a £ 7,500( US $ 10,255) government grant – solar panels and a battery system.
26 March 2026