The Code for Sustainable Homes was launched in December 2006. It replaced EcoHomes in England since April 2007. The aim is to make the Code for Sustainable Homes as a single standard to achieve sustainable building for new build homes in UK.
The Code for Sustainable Homes set 6 levels of efficiency, with level 6 being zero carbon. By 2010, UK aims to achieve 25% improvement, which is Level 3, according to Building Regulations. By 2013, 44% improvement, equalling Level 4, in energy performance will be achieved. Further, all new houses are aimed to achieve zero carbon by 2016.
The Code for Sustainable Homes is made up of points awarded through levels of achievement in different areas. Different requirement of points for different levels are shown below:
Level 1 – 36 points; minimum 1.2 from Energy and 1.5 from Water;
Level 2 – 48 points; minimum 3.5 from Energy and 1.5 from Water;
Level 3 – 57 points; minimum 5.8 from Energy and 4.5 from Water;
Level 4 – 68 points; minimum 9.4 from Energy and 4.5 from Water;
Level 5 – 84 points; minimum 16.4 from Energy and 7.5 from Water;
Level 6 – 90 points; minimum 17.6 from Energy and 7.5 from Water.
