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<p>As of the 1 of October we have launched a consultation on options to deliver a
meaningful and achievable increase to the energy efficiency standards for new homes
to be introduced through the Building Regulations in 2020, as a stepping stone to
meeting our commitment to introduce a Future Homes Standard by 2025. Our preferred
option for 2020 would achieve a 31 per cent reduction in carbon emissions for an average
home. We expect this would be achieved by homes being built with high fabric standards
alongside the use of low-carbon heating, such as a heat-pump, or renewables technology,
such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. The published impact assessment considers
analysis and evidence supporting the options.</p><p>The Building Regulations set minimum
energy performance standards for new homes and non-domestic buildings, but do not
prescribe the technologies, materials or fuels to be used, allowing builders the flexibility
to innovate and select the most practical and cost-effective solutions in particular
circumstances. For example, many roofs are not suitable for solar PV panels because
of visual amenity, strength, or orientation of the property.</p>
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