Homes to be made greener

Friday, 10 March 2006 12:00 AM

Homes will be made greener under a new government rules.

Today ministers said they would strengthen the Code for Sustainable Homes and introduce new building regulations in an attempt to deal with climate change.

Minimum standards will be enforced for energy efficiency and water efficiency, with the code giving extra points to homes with micro-generation on site.

This initiative means that new buildings will be 40 per cent more energy efficient than in 2002, the government said today.

As well as becoming more efficient, the plans are also giving extra benefit to homes that have micro generators - such as solar panels or combined heat and power (CHP) boilers that can lower home electricity bills as well as help the environment.

"Strengthening the code gives us the chance to promote high standards for new buildings on top of the 40 per cent reduction in emissions since 2002 from this April," said housing and planning minister Yvette Cooper.

"We need new homes for the next generation, but we need to make sure they are environmentally sustainable 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-renewable technology and tackle climate change."

Environment minister Elliot Morley added: "Reducing emissions through energy efficiency is a crucial part of tackling climate change. I strongly welcome the measures being announced, the strengthening of the code, and the work in progress.

"This demonstrates the government's commitment to sustainable communities and the encouragement of new design and technology in buildings, particularly micro-generation."

The new rules come into force on April 6th.

Tags:
• uk property news