New research from E.ON has revealed that almost nine in ten (89%) prospective homeowners have become more interested in finding homes with sustainable solutions such as solar panels and efficient boilers over having a garden (80%), en-suite bathroom (50%) and a walk in wardrobe (27%).

 

Following the introduction of temporary stamp duty relief earlier this year, over three quarters (78%) of those surveyed also said they’d be willing to use these savings to invest in sustainable solutions in their new home. More than a third (38%) said solar panels would be the feature they’d be most willing to invest their money in. Of those surveyed, almost half (49%) of prospective buyers say that spending more time at home during the past few months has led them to consider buying a home that’s more sustainable. The main reasons are wanting to lower energy bills (65%), being more conscious of the environment that they live in (52%) and wanting to reduce their impact on the planet (50%).

 

Two thirds (66%) claim their current home has few sustainable solutions (i.e. solar panels or intelligent heating) but say this is something they’d definitely consider when moving home (62%), as the majority (87%) say it’s important their new home is sustainable.  With lockdown playing a big part in prospective homeowners considering sustainable updates at home, more than three quarters (77%) of those questioned admitted they’re more likely to buy a property that has sustainable solutions over one that didn’t.

 

Broadcaster & Architectural Designer Charlie Luxton comments: "The research from E.ON is encouraging because it highlights how we’re prioritising sustainable solutions in and around the home.

 

“People are naturally becoming more aware and conscious of their impact on the environment. They've spent more time at home than ever before and have inevitably become more aware of how they’re using energy and of sustainable changes they can make.

 

“The key tip I would give to anyone looking to make their home more sustainable is to first take a look at the basics such as correctly insulating your home and upgrading to energy efficient appliances, as these changes can be easily implemented. However, if you’re wanting to see a more instantaneous effect whilst exploring the steps above, consider the likes of installing solar PV panels to your home and combining them with battery storage. This is a fantastic way to provide sustainable low-cost energy for your home, something which E.ON’s research has highlighted ranks highly on Britain’s agenda.”

 

Scott Somerville, Head of Brand & Marketing at E.ON UK, said: “At E.ON we’re proud to be leading the energy revolution by providing all our customers’ homes with 100% renewables-backed electricity3 and a range of sustainable home solutions. By installing solar panels or energy efficient boilers, we’re helping households lower their carbon footprints as well as their energy bills.

 

“We believe in a smart, personalised and sustainable energy future for our customers which is why we continue to offer innovative solutions that help homeowners become more sustainable and take control of their energy.”

 

The research also highlighted a shift in opinion since lockdown:

 

  • Before lockdown more than one in ten (11%) would never have considered making their home more sustainable.
  • But now, more than two thirds (38%) of Brits admit they’re considering making their home more sustainable since lockdown.
  • Interestingly, a third, (33%) also said they’re more interested in home solutions such as solar panels than they were six months ago.
  • These findings are further supported by new research4 showing that having solar panels can increase the value of homes across the country by £30,000 on average.

 

When asked which features they’d look for to keep energy bills low in their new home, over half of prospective homebuyers (52%) said a new boiler, followed by nearly half (47%) selecting solar panels and 37% saying intelligent heating.

 

To demonstrate how sustainable home solutions can be implemented while also being aesthetically pleasing, a new image highlighting the simple ways to make your home more sustainable has been revealed by E.ON.