The Low-Carbon House:
Energy standards in context
Introduction
• The Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) defines a ‘zero carbon house’ as one ‘where net carbon emissions resulting from ALL energy used in the dwelling is zero. This includes the energy consumed in the operation of the space heating/cooling and hot-water systems, ventilation, all internal lighting, cooking and all electrical appliances.’
• Embodied energy is omitted from current standards.
• The ‘Zero Carbon’ standard only applies to Level 6 of the CSH.
• The emissions standards for Levels 1 – 5 are determined by reference to a % reduction of emissions set in Building Regulations AD L1-2006.
• Emissions determined by Building Regs refer only to emissions resulting from space and water heating and some lighting. It does not refer to emissions resulting from cooking or appliances.
• Though the UK government’s main tool of carbon reduction in housing remains the Building Regs, subsequent revisions are heralded by voluntary adoption of higher standards set by CSH Levels.
• The UK Government has signalled its intention that from 2016 all new housing should meet with standards as currently set out in Level 6.
The source of emissions
• The illustration below shows the emissions from all sources within a house, including appliances. Notice how the emissions associated wtih space heating diminish as standards improve - and how the unregulated (up to and including Level 5) emissions from appliances grow in proportion. (Source: AECB)
Disclaimer:
GreenSpec accepts no responsibility or liability for any damages or costs
of any type arising out of or in any way connected with your use of this
web site. Data and information is provided for information purposes only,
and is not intended for trading purposes. Neither GreenSpec nor any of
its partners shall be liable for any errors in the content, or for any
actions taken in reliance thereon.
