17 March 2006
New building regulations were laid down in parliament this week that increase the necessary standards of energy efficiency in new and developed homes.
When combined with the changes to building regulations made in 2002, the government says that energy efficiency standards will be boosted by 40%.
Housing and planning minister Yvette Cooper said: "By increasing energy efficiency standards by 40% our changes to building regulations make a significant contribution to the government's effort to tackle climate change and offer householders reduced fuel bills too.
"Alongside making new homes more sustainable we are also looking at further measures to improve the sustainability of existing homes and new planning guidance to further promote micro-generation and tackle climate change."
Developers will be required to make greater use of energy saving insulation and use more energy efficient boilers. They may also consider using low or zero carbon systems, which include energy alternatives such as solar panels and mini-wind turbines.
The new standards will come into effect on April 6th. They will apply not only to all new buildings, but must also be met when work is completed on existing buildings.
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