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Government’s Target For Zero Carbon

In 2007 the Government has set new targets and regulations for energy use in new and existing dwellings. At the end of 2006 Chancellor Gordon Brown set out his vision for green homes in his budget report. His goal is that all new homes should be a ‘zero carbon’ by 2016. As an added incentive the Chancellor removed stamp duty on zero carbon homes, starting 2007.

Homes In the UK are responsible for producing around 25% of the country’s carbon emissions, though heating, lighting and use of appliances.

The new code, title ‘A step chance in sustainable home building practice’ is intended to create single national standard guide industry in the design and construction of homes. It incorporates the EcoHomes rating scheme for home developed for Government by Building Research Establishment. Homes aiming for this standard must use kitchen equipment such as freezers and fridges with A+ energy efficiently ratings. There are also credits for low-energy lighting systems and renewable energy systems.

The Government points out that there are benefits not only for the environment and homeowners, but also the construction sector. The new Code will provide a mark of quality and differentiation for house builders. It also provides regulatory certainty as well as flexibility of design. The Code is set to have a big impact on the way homes are designed in the UK, with the builders and consumers paying more attention than ever to new methods of heating, cooling and saving energy.