One of the biggest reasons why people go on to buy a new build home is because of their improved energy performance, compared to older properties. So, it’s good news to learn that a large majority of new homes coming through the pipeline are within the two most energy efficient bands, according to Government data. We take a closer look…
Energy Bands A and B
The Government has shared data in relation to the Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) of new homes delivered between the months of October and December 2020. The statistics show that 84% of new build homes completed in this time achieved an A or B EPC rating. This equates to a 5% rise for new-build homes and comes at a pivotal time as energy efficiency ranks as a high priority for many.
EPC Grading
The EPC is a grading of a property based on its energy efficiency, determined by the estimated fuel costs. A grading of A shows the most energy efficient properties, while at the other end, G is the least efficient.
A higher EPC rating also means the property’s running costs will likely be lower, with its performance being better for the environment too. The average EPC rating for a home in the UK is D, while new-build homes have always tended to have higher EPC ratings.
Hitting the highest mark
These figures from the Government are good news, and very welcoming for anyone who has recently bought or is considering buying a new-build home, but they also show a need for improvement. That’s because, when you look more closely at the data, the majority of the new homes (82%) were achieving an EPC rating of B. Only 2% of new homes in England were graded with the top level A rating. This shows there is still a lot to be done to improve the energy performance of new homes for the future.
What can be done to improve energy performance?
So, how can housebuilders work to improve the energy efficiency of new homes? There are several factors to look at, including the thermal insulation performance and how air-tight homes are. Insulation for floors as much as the roof or loft space, even the walls should be considered. The better a property is insulated, the less need there is for heating.
Solar panels are a fantastic addition to new homes when it comes to producing cheaper, greener energy, but can be costly to install. And when it comes to the lighting, using low-energy light fittings can make a difference to energy bills, and the home’s overall energy performance.
Kick-start your search for a new home with a high energy performance rating. We bring all the new homes available for sale from housebuilders large and small across the country, so you can search for your dream home in one place. Get started here.
