Episode two: No energy bills? Inside the Zero Bills housing revolution
As the UK housing industry faces rising energy costs and prepares for the Future Homes Standard, one concept is capturing the imagination of developers and homeowners alike - Zero Bills homes.
In this episode of Shaping a Greener Tomorrow, host and UPOWA Managing Director Paul Terry is joined by Hannah McCarthy, Head of Zero Bills at Octopus Energy, to explore how homes can be designed, built, and powered with no energy bills for at least ten years.
From the technology making it possible to the partnerships driving its rollout, this episode dives into how the Zero Bills model is reshaping what’s possible for energy, affordability, and sustainability in new build housing.
Key topics include:
The rise of Zero Bills homes
What the model is, how it works, and why it’s becoming a powerful differentiator for developers.Technology and energy integration
How solar PV, battery storage, and smart energy management combine to make energy-free living achievable.Market response and demand
Real-world examples, including Thakeham’s Templegate development, where Zero Bills has been the single biggest driver of enquiries.Impact on the Future Homes Standard
How Zero Bills aligns with government ambitions for low-carbon, energy-efficient homes by 2027.Partnership and scalability
Why collaboration across the supply chain is essential to making net-zero homes mainstream.
Guest: Hannah McCarthy, Head of Zero Bills, Octopus Energy
Resources & mentions:
Zero Bills by Octopus Energy
Thakeham Homes Templegate
Urban & Civic Penny Green
Future Homes Standard
Brickability Group PLC
UPOWA
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