Written Statement - Leading the way for cheaper to run, greener homes

As the first step on the path to zero carbon the Welsh Assembly Government has today set a 55%  improvement (over the 2006 Building Regulations) as the target for the first changes to devolved Building Regulations when powers transfer on 31 December 2011. We aim to bring forward detailed proposals for consultation during 2012 with a view to implementation in 2013. It is anticipated that renewable energy will play a part in meeting the new standards and that in the short term these are likely to be small scale provision.

Higher standards will support the Assembly Government’s climate change, economic and social policies. The target reflects the need to find a balance between an ambitious agenda on climate change and setting standards that do not make the cost of new building prohibitively expensive with the risk of stalling the housing market and losing the social value of new housing. 

After considering a range of options from current standards to a 70% improvement for regulated emissions we have concluded that a reduction in carbon (CO2 equivalent) emissions of 55% compared to 2006 achieves the right balance.

The target will mean new flats and houses with combined heating, lighting and hot water bills as low as £7.50 a week. A combination of green technologies including heat pumps, photovoltaics, solar hot water and higher building standards will help achieve lower carbon emissions and fuel bills.

Further details may be found at:

www.wales.gov.uk/housing