Bloomberg reports millions of UK flat owners cannot install solar panels, heat pumps or air conditioning because leasehold clauses and strict local council planning guidelines restrict alterations to external walls and roofs. Local planning guidance prioritizes passive cooling over mechanical air conditioning, limiting retrofit options that could be cost-saving. Amid a record European heatwave, air conditioning has become a policy flashpoint; some net-zero guidance requires passive cooling be fu

Bloomberg reports millions of UK flat owners cannot install solar panels, heat pumps or air conditioning because leasehold clauses and strict local council planning guidelines restrict alterations to external walls and roofs. Local planning guidance prioritizes passive cooling over mechanical air conditioning, limiting retrofit options that could be cost-saving. Amid a record European heatwave, air conditioning has become a policy flashpoint; some net-zero guidance requires passive cooling be fully used before mechanical systems are permitted.