Builders will be required to introduce electric heat pumps or other non-gas heating systems in most new builds in compliance with the “future homes standard,” which is designed to improve properties’ energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The regulations were first announced by former Conservative chancellor Philip Hammond in 2019. They included a six-year implementation lead time to give the industry enough time to prepare for the overhaul in building practice. 

The previous Tory government's consultation on the policy ended in March. The new Labour administration, elected in July, hopes to present the final guidance on gas heating phaseout next year with legislation as early as May, according to people familiar with the matter.

Twelve months are expected before the relevant bill comes into effect, followed by a transition arrangement of up to a year. Thus, the regulations would not take effect until around May 2027. 

James Dyson, senior researcher at climate policy think tank E3G, said it was a “scandal” that the new standards, designed to reduce household energy bills, had taken so long to introduce.

“We estimate the delay has led to about 700,000 homes being built with heating systems that need replacing — passing a cost of over £12,000 per home on to families and social housing associations,” he said.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said it wanted all new properties built without gas boilers by the decade's end.

“We remain committed to delivering highly efficient new homes that will become net zero as the grid decarbonises,” it said.

“All options set out in the future homes standard consultation would result in significant emissions reductions compared to previous standards.” 

However, one government aide said the ban on installing new gas boilers could include a handful of limited exemptions.

Future home standards and updated building regulations aim to cut carbon emissions from new homes by 75-80% compared with current standards.

Under the guidance, builders can use different technologies and insulation materials to meet requirements. 

The government will also encourage the use of solar panels on homes where possible but will refrain from mandating their installation on roofs.