Energy efficiency has been a topic of high importance in recent years. With global warming ravaging our planet slowly, the effects are being felt right across the world and so as a result, there has been a shift in the way individuals, governments and private corporations have been operating to build a better future for our children.
Many of these bodies have pledged carbon neutrality in their attempts to save the world, with many planning on reaching that by 2025. The UK government has also set its eyes on becoming carbon neutral in 2050 and one of the ways they’re aiming to reach that is by setting energy-efficient building regulations for new homes in the UK.
In the year ending March 22, more than 37,000 new build homes had been built but what measures have been taken to ensure they’re energy-efficient? Read on to find out more.
The importance of energy efficiency
Before delving into the new laws and regulations, it’s important to know why the government is striving for an energy-efficient future. Some of the reasons include:
- Lower emissions
- Reduced pollutants Decreased water usage
- Stabilise electricity prices
- Reduce waste
What are the new regulations
These are all great benefits but what are the new regulations on new build homes to make them more energy efficient?
- 30% reduction in carbon emissions
- Overheating prevention
- Maximum flow temperature
- Improved ventilation
How will this be achieved?
Each of these regulations is not without its challenges but some of the ways building companies are keeping their new builds in line with government guidelines include:
- Renewable energy sources such as heat pumps and solar panels
- Reduced glazing to prevent overheating
- Extractor fans in kitchens with a minimum intermittent extract rate to keep the home well ventilated
Health and safety on site
Implementing these new regulations may mean more time on site for builders, so site managers must know how to keep their staff safe whilst they work. To do this, ensure they have appropriate lighting when working, provide staff facilities such as toilets and provide safe passageways to get around the property.
Failure to do this may result in accidental injury and if this occurs, your staff will be able to make a claim against you. It’s worth noting that the construction industry is considered the most dangerous to work in due to the number of worldwide accidents on building sites.
What other measures are new builds taking?
Energy efficiency isn’t the only sustainable feature of new build houses with it now being a legal requirement for new homes to come equipped with electric car charging points. This is in a bid to encourage UK homeowners to make the switch to EVs to reduce our gas usage too.
As you can see, new build homes with energy-efficient features are one of the most important steps to building a more sustainable United Kingdom. Whether you’re building these homes or moving into one, you must make sure they follow government regulations for your own benefit.
