NHBC Launches Review on Renewable Energy 22/11/06
NHBC, the UK's standard setting body for new home construction, has today launched a review of renewable energy technologies to address the "information gap" on this issue and deliver comprehensive, practical guidance for the industry.
The review, which was announced at NHBC's Annual Lunch, comes at a time when the industry is facing increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions. In recent statements both the Government and Opposition have targeted renewable energy sources in homes as a key focus in meeting carbon emissions targets by 2050. Similarly, planning requirements and the forthcoming Code for Sustainable Homes have thrown the spotlight on this issue.
Further impetus came today when the Government announced that it has targeted the Thames Gateway as a carbon neutral development area. Renewable energy is likely to become ever more important in achieving this goal. NHBC has already set up a Thames Gateway Taskforce to look at issues on delivery and quality in the Gateway and this latest announcement will add to the importance of its work.
There is very little experience amongst builders and developers in using this emergent technology. This is why NHBC, with 70 years of experience in the new home market, has taken a pro-active stance in launching the review, which it will work on with the Building Research Establishment (BRE). The results of the review are due to be published in a guidance document in the spring of 2007.
NHBC Chief Executive, Imtiaz Farookhi, said: "This review is not only timely but necessary if the industry is to address environmental challenges for the future. There is a real imperative for the industry to get to grips with the intricacies of these specialised technologies and NHBC will move this agenda forward for the benefit of builders, developers and consumers."
NHBC has actively worked in the field of sustainability since 1995 when it first began providing Energy Ratings to builders. Shortly after, NHBC worked with the BRE to develop EcoHomes, the industry standard environmental assessment method for residential property. From next year it will be carrying out assessments for the Energy Performance Certificates which will form part of the Home Information Pack.
Looking to the future NHBC's independent research institution - the NHBC Foundation - launched this year in partnership with the BRE, will be publishing research on Energy, Water and Waste towards the start of 2007 to address broader themes in the sustainability agenda.
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
NHBC is the standards setting body and leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK. It was established 70 years ago as a non-profit distributing company. NHBC's primary purpose is to help raise standards in the new house-building industry and provide consumer protection for new house buyers.
NHBC's ten-year 'Buildmark' warranty covers more than 80 % of homes built in the UK and has protected more than 6 million homes.
NHBC helps raise standards by:
- registering builders who agree to comply with NHBC's Rules and Standards
- setting and maintaining construction standards for new homes
- inspecting at key stages of construction
- providing 'Buildmark,' the most comprehensive warranty and insurance cover for homes in the UK
- offering building control services in England and Wales
- providing a range of services, including technical information, training, health and safety, engineering and energy rating services for new homes and housing-related sectors
