The Energy Saving Trust has recently stated that almost 1/3rd of new homes are still failing to meet energy efficiency guidelines as the Code for Sustainable Homes (CfSH) is not being adequately enforced, giving cause for real concern. The state that the UK building regulations are among some of the toughest in Europe, but they are extremely poorly enforced as far as energy efficiency goes.
Delays in consultation on approved documents L and G have since prompted deferment of CfSH 2010 until the end of the year, but the clock is still ticking towards the target of CfSH level 6 (ZERO CARBON) for all new homes. The Government has now set-up a Zero Carbon Task Group to further address guidance on the latter.
The CfSH assessment uses the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) test to calculate energy performance, and the efficacy of the test, particularly in relation to more thermally efficient buildings, has been questioned. However, the relevance of airtight construction is emphasised by the fact that, of the nine CfSH assessment categories, energy and CO2 emissions is by far the most significant. In terms of how this may affect specifications, the right balance between air tightness and ventilation can be struck without significant addition to building costs.Material choice can greatly influence a buildings long term air tightness. Achieving a good air tightness result impacts the CfSH category ENE 1&2 positively.
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