Code deals Blow to renewable energy

And many were shocked to see that to achieve zero carbon status, off-site renewable energy will not be eligible unless it is connected to the home by a private wire arrangement. And it looks like the stamp duty exemption for zero carbon homes will also use this definition.

Sustainability experts say this move will deter volume housebuilders from pursuing zero carbon developments.

The CIOB’s Fiona Davies said in the longer term the institute believes that account should also be taken of embodied energy of materials and carbon emissions associated with household behaviour – you could live in a zero carbon home and drive a gas guzzler for an hour to get to your office, for instance – rather than focusing entirely on the fabric of the building. Davies points out that the Code for Sustainable Homes’ definition of zero carbon is where ‘net carbon dioxide emissions resulting from ALL energy used in the dwelling are zero or better’.

‘The real issue is much bigger than the definition of zero carbon homes, which focuses entirely on the fabric of the building,’ said Davies. ‘The CIOB believes there should be much greater emphasis on the decarbonisation of energy supply. If this can be achieved, decarbonisation of all building stock will follow, as the industry moves to innovate and respond to the changing market.’