6.11 Legislation

In the UK the system of control on the design of all new domestic properties is covered by the Building Regulations [see reference 9]. New, more onerous standards came into force in 2006 requiring an overall reduction in energy consumption of some 28% on previous standards. The regulations require target U-values for building elements. UK Houses now require pressure-testing to ensure that heat losses through infiltration have been kept to an acceptable level and that the house has been constructed to the same standard to which it was designed.

The method of demonstrating compliance with the new regulations is by means of a simple building energy model (a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculation [see reference 10]) that provides maximum target energy consumption measured in kWh/m²/per annum and CO₂ emissions per m² per annum.

The system is intended to be relatively easy for the consumer to understand resulting in a band of values ranging from 0 to 100 with 100 being the most energy efficient. Building energy certificates are required to be displayed from 2007, based on the SAP calculations and in accordance with the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive [see reference 11]. These are likely to be along similar lines to those already adopted for domestic appliances such as fridges and freezers – a band from G through to A with A being the most energy efficient.

The Feed in Tariffs (Fit) is a renewable energy subsidy announced in 2010. The feed in tariff aimed particularly at PV and wind turbines provide a strong financial incentive to install renewable technologies. At the domestic level for example energy suppliers will pay 43p (reduced in March 2012 to 23p) per kW for renewable electricity from a domestic PV installation whilst the going rate for grid electricity is 13p. This generous subsidy, based on the German model, is aimed at stimulating supply and generating economies of scale. At the time of writing (spring 2012), the FiT has stimulated a scramble for domestic and commercial PV installations, and is soon to be reduced again.