New buildings measure up in CCC’s Progress Report

A recent publication by the Climate Change Committee (CCC) states UK has “solid Net Zero strategy in place” but risks missing the aim of net zero in practice. The report notes that the building sector needs to increase the uptake of low carbon heating technologies and ensure reductions in energy demands. These are elements that have been considered for new dwellings working through current GLA planning requirements.

Though the CCC are reporting against the current Carbon Budget, it notes that an area of future improvement around ensuing new developments achieve net zero carbon emissions. In practice this could require considering whole life cycle carbon emissions. Though this analysis is considered for planning in London, the CCC ask for clearer policy targets using the analysis. The findings are particularly enlightening, as the CCC’s recommendations influence future policy.

Those working on refurbishments will be aware that aligning with the CCC is possible but, as the CCC highlight, requires several enablers and policy changes. The CCC measure energy efficiency according to the number of EPCs with a C rating and are also driving decarbonisation with the uptake of heat pumps.