UK government considers tougher energy standards for new builds and extensions

The UK government has set out plans to improve homes’ energy performance by making them subject to new higher energy efficiency standards, a recent news report has been able to suggest.

The standards will apply to both new and existing homes, with all new homes required to have low-carbon heating such as heat pumps and be zero-carbon ready by 2025.

New homes will be expected to produce 31% lower carbon emissions compared to current levels starting from this year, and 75-80% lower emissions from 2025.

Existing homes will be subject to higher standards in regards to extensions, as well as a requirement for all replacements, repairs and parts such as new windows and heat pumps to be more energy-efficient.

The new measures will help lower energy consumption and help the UK achieve its 2050 net-zero target, the government said.

The housing minister Christopher Pincher said: “Improving the energy performance of buildings is vital to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and protecting the environment for future generations to come.

“The radical new standards announced today will not only improve energy efficiency of existing homes and other buildings, but will also ensure our new homes are fit for the future, by reducing emissions from new homes by at least 75%.

“This will help deliver greener homes and buildings, as well as reducing energy bills for hard-working families and businesses.”

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