No technology 'magic bullet' for eco-homes, warns BRE

More research needs to be done on carbon reduction technologies in the housing industry, according to the latest research conducted by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) and National Housing Building Council (NHBC).

The paper entitled ‘Review of Microgeneration and Renewable Energy Technologies’, compiled by joint research venture NHBC Foundation, warned that more research needs to be conducted to avoid potential risks associated with the implementation of eco-saving technologies in the UK housing industry.

The research was commissioned to help builders, developers and local councils meet the 2016 zero carbon homes target.

Assessing the 11 types of technology most appropriate for new developments, including biomass, solar photovoltaic, air source heat pump and fuel cell technologies, it found that most were still not necessarily that cost effective.

Imtiaz Faroohki, chief executive of the NHBC, said: "This research emphasises the fact that there is no technological 'magic bullet' to renewable energy.

"What is made absolutely clear is that builders need to use the right technology for the right situation and this needs to be done on a case-by-case basis, otherwise they are unlikely to deliver on the three crucial measurements: carbon reduction, cost effectiveness and customer satisfaction."

Nick Raynsford, MP and chair of the NHBC Foundation, added: "Leading builders and developers have stepped up to meet the challenge of creating zero carbon homes, but much more needs to be done to achieve real carbon and cost savings for consumers.

"This report is a first step in helping the house building industry comprehend the risks and issues associated with building zero carbon homes. "