For Developers > How you cut CO2 Emissions > Low Carbon Techonologies > Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency
Maximising energy efficiency wherever possible (heating systems, lighting etc…) is very important and should be a key priority for developers.
A more efficient building will be cheaper to run and therefore more attractive to prospective tenants or buyers. It will also
result in less CO2 emissions,
helping to ensure compliance with planning requirements. Energy efficiency is the cornerstone of low carbon development. When considering options for meeting CO2 targets, there is little point in installing renewable energy if a building is using more energy than it needs to in the first place.
What is ‘energy efficiency’?
Energy efficiency includes all aspects of energy use and energy supply.
Energy efficiency considerations include increased fabric insulation (to walls and roofs), reduced thermal bridging (through exposed structures), improved air tightness, efficient lighting and controls (including clever use and positioning of lighting), efficient heating and hot water systems, efficient appliances, controlled ventilation and efficient cooling systems.
As energy efficiency relates to so many facets of a buildings design it is often easier to think about how to incorporate it using the standards set out by policy and best practice.
The Standards
Building Regulations Part L – sets out the limit on design flexibility (including fabric, ventilation, lighting and appliances), the criteria for limiting the effects of solar gains in summer as well as the criteria for ensuring the quality of construction. This ensures the adoption of minimum energy efficiency standard across new developments.
The Energy Saving Trust provides guidelines on standards of energy efficiency beyond building regulations - Best Practice and Advanced Practice standards for new dwellings.
Best Practice Energy Efficiency Standard
Achieving best practice in energy efficient design involves an integrated approach to fabric detailing, air tightness, heating, ventilation and cooling systems, lighting, appliances and controls with an objective to provide a 25 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to building regulations.
Advanced Practice Energy Efficiency Standard
Achieving advanced practice in energy efficient design involves an integrated approach to fabric detailing, air tightness, heating, ventilation and cooling systems, lighting, appliances and controls with an objective to provide a 60 percent reduction and beyond in carbon dioxide emissions compared to building regulations.
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