 Zero Carbon Homes are homes built for the future. By 2016 the Government has announced that all new homes built in the UK should be Zero Carbon and from October this year all new build Zero Carbon Homes will be Stamp Duty Land Tax Exempt.
What is a Zero Carbon home?
A zero carbon home is one that generates as much power as it uses over the course of a year and therefore has net zero carbon dioxide emissions.
How do Near Zero CO2 Homes acheive this?: -
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Reduce Energy Demand
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Incorporate high levels of insulation in roof and walls (down to 0.11 U-Value)
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Design to acheive maximum airtightness throughout the building envelope
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Install windows and doors with greater thermal performance
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Orientate the home to maximise space heating from winter sun and shade from cold Northerly winds
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Incorporate draft lobby at entrances to reduce mass migration of heat when doors are opened
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Install ventillation with heat recovery that are at least 95% efficient
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Use low energy lighting throughout ( 1W LED equal to 60W standard lamp)
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Incorporate energy efficient appliances such as washing machines and freezers
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Reduce hot water pipe runs with efficient plumbing design and insulate all pipes
Near Zero CO2 Homes can also incorporate sustainable and locally sourced materials, rainwater harvesting and recycling as well as sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDs).
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