A solar PV installation has been listed as the most desirable ‘non-essential deal-sealer’ for potential property buyers in the UK.

A new survey published by mortgage lender ING Direct has revealed that the British public value solar panels over any other non-essential property extras. The current tough property market means that homeowners are increasingly looking at extra ways in which they can boost the attractiveness of their property and 38 percent of those surveyed listed solar panels as the most desirable property extra.

ING Direct believes that the surge in solar’s popularity is because the British public are increasingly becoming concerned with sustainability and cheaper energy costs.

Published below is the top ten list of most desirable property extras determined by ING Direct’s survey:

1. Solar panels (38 percent)
2=. Weekly bin collections (32 percent)
2=. Satellite TV connection (32 percent)
4. Greenhouse (25 percent)
5. Walk-in wardrobe (24 percent)
6. Good 3G signal (20 percent)
7. Giant bathtub (19 percent)
8=. Outdoor power supply (18 percent)
8=. Pantry or larder (18 percent)
Garden pond (15 percent)

The full list shows just how much solar technology has risen to prominence in the UK, beating out real estate stalwarts such as greenhouses and ponds to the top spot. More than 360,000 homes in the UK now generate their own energy thanks to a solar installation – a 349 percent increase from August last year.