Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has announced a brand-new green standard for new-build homes, paving the way for an environmental revolution in homebuilding in the UK.
Currently, new and existing homes account for 20% of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. If the government wants to meet its net zero emissions target by 2050, reducing the level of carbon emissions from new homes is vital.
The Future Homes Standard is due to be introduced next year. It will pave the way for all new homes from 2025 to be built with the latest generation clean technology such as air source heat pumps and cutting-edge solar panels, to drastically cut carbon emissions and keep bills low for homeowners. After this date, all new-build homes will be banned from having fossil fuel heating systems such as gas boilers installed.
Beautiful, environmentally friendly new homes
The Housing Secretary said: “Building new homes isn’t just about bricks and mortar. I want to ensure everyone, including developers, do their bit to protect the environment and give the next generation beautiful, environmentally friendly homes that local communities can support.
“That’s why I am requiring carbon emissions are cut by up to 80% from 2025 for all new homes and have published a National Design Guide, setting out simply what we expect from new development.”
The government consultation on stronger building regulations to drive down the carbon footprint of homes built after 2025 will run until January 2020. It includes changes to ventilation and efficiency requirements and advising local councils on how to get the best energy standards from developers.
The Future Homes Standard is a huge bonus for eco-conscious buyers looking for greener homes and hoping to take advantage of the growing number of discounted ‘green’ mortgage deals available.
