New updated regulations have been enforced since 15th June 2022 for new non- domestic buildings and new existing housing.
Changes have been made by the Housing & Communities Department for Levelling Up. It is said that the changes ‘mark an important step on our journey towards a cleaner, greener built environment and it supports us in our target to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050’. With hybrid and electric cars now seen more frequently, this is naturally a step forward.
The majority of the changes are part of the journey for the government's Future Homes Standard and Future Buildings Standard which are planned for 2025. An integral part is that all new builds are capable of being net zero for operational carbon when the grid decarbonises.
The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy have confirmed that heating and power account for 40 per cent of the UK’s total energy use. So, what does this mean to us? It means that new building regulations will also reduce the need to heat and power buildings. This will in turn assist the UK to reach its zero carbon goals. With energy prices and the cost of living rising in the UK. Drastic changes need to take place to sustain households.
How will the changes improve on current Building Regulations? Will greener projects really be put forward? Well, this is still a matter of dispute between many. Last December, professionals criticised the government's amendments to energy efficiency regulations. They considered the steps not to be enough in preserving our environment. However, since last June, it is reported that new build homes will need to produce at least 31 % less carbon emissions. Many developers are now installing electric heating systems combined with renewable energy sources such as solar panels and other similar resources. Something that is becoming more favourable amongst some house-owners.
Some households around the country are having smart meters installed by their local councils as a means in measuring energy efficiency.
The interim measures will apply to all projects after 15 June 2022, except where a building notice has been given or full plans have been submitted with local councils. However, from 15 June 2023 the new regulations will apply to all projects regardless.