Wales

House with solar panels

Wales becomes first part of U.K. to mandate solar panels on new buildings

The Welsh Government has officially updated its national building regulations to require the installation of solar panels on new buildings across the country. This historic move makes Wales the first nation in the United Kingdom to mandate that all new homes and non-domestic structures generate their own clean electricity. While housing experts maintain a measured outlook on the initial construction costs, the policy is designed to dramatically lower energy bills for families and secure national energy independence. This achievement provides a practical blueprint for how modern urban planning can successfully drive the global transition toward a net-zero future.

Silhouette of person holding fun

Crime in England and Wales has plummeted 80% in 30 years

As of 2024, violence, burglary, and car crime have been declining for 30 years and by close to 90%, according to the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW). The drop in violence includes domestic violence and other violence against women. Anti-social behavior has similarly declined. While increased fraud and computer misuse now make up half of crime, this mainly reflects how far the rates of other crimes have fallen.