The solar tipping point: new-build homes to get mandatory solar panels by 2027

A landmark policy shift The sun is finally rising on a more sustainable housing future in England. The UK government has announced that by 2027, virtually all new homes in England will be legally required to have solar panels installed during construction. This isn't just a nod to greener ambitions - it's a practical, cost-saving, and long-overdue change that could redefine our national relationship with energy. For decades, the conversation around decarbonising the housing stock has been weighted heavily toward retrofitting old buildings. But this policy, which mandates solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for new builds, shifts the focus to future-proofing…
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Finland ahead of schedule on coal phase out

Finnish company P2X Solutions' commercial green hydrogen production at its facility  'Green power' in Finland has more than doubled since 2020 The recent closure of a coal power plant in Finland brought the country to the brink of a full coal phase-out - four years ahead of schedule. Power utility company Helen officially decommissioned its Salmisaari plant in Helsinki on April 1st, dropping coal to a less than 1 per cent share of the country's energy mix. Alongside reducing emissions and increasing energy independence, it says the switch is also helping it to cut customers' electricity bills. "We have been…
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Green sector growth: three times faster than the UK economy

The Net Zero factor New analysis from the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit found that the net zero sector is growing at triple the rate of the UK's economy. This is creating high-paying jobs across the country, while cutting emissions and increasing energy security. Green sectors such as clean energy, EVs, green finance and railways are growing expandingly, with a growth of 10% in 2024 and 9% in 2023. These sectors employ almost a million people in full-time jobs. Green sectors also help balance job distribution, which is often concentrated in London and the South East. Net zero jobs are…
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How the Net Zero Strategy is reshaping Business

Councillor Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for city environment and climate change, with council parking attendant Jaswant Bhambra and the new all-electric vans A defining moment for UK businesses The UK has committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, an ambitious target that is already reshaping the business landscape. As we move further into 2025, businesses across all sectors are facing new challenges and opportunities as they adapt to policies and regulations designed to accelerate decarbonisation. With key milestones such as a 78% emissions reduction by 2035 and the phasing out of petrol and diesel…
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A greener journey from Cambridge to London

The UK's first electric coach service In a significant leap towards sustainable travel, FlixBus has launched the UK's first electric coach service, connecting Cambridge and London. This initiative, running a 124-mile round trip, is part of a six-week trial that could reshape the future of long-distance travel in the UK. With the world increasingly aware of the environmental impact of transportation, this electric service is not just about convenience; it's a step towards reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. Mitigating health risks Carbon emissions from traditional diesel-powered coaches contribute significantly to air pollution, releasing harmful pollutants such as nitrogen…
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Are you looking to purchase your first electric vehicle?

10 smart tips for choosing your first electric vehicle Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is an exciting and forward-thinking decision, but with so many options on the market, choosing your first EV can be overwhelming. Whether you're motivated by environmental concerns, rising fuel prices, or the appeal of cutting-edge technology, selecting the right EV requires careful consideration. Here are 10 smart tips to help you navigate the process and find the perfect electric vehicle for your needs. 1. Understand your driving needs Before diving into the world of electric vehicles, take some time to evaluate your driving habits. Consider…
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