Written question asked by Lord Barker of Battle (Conservative) on Thursday, 16 February 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 27 February 2006. It was answered by Yvette Cooper (Labour) on Tuesday, 28 February 2006 on behalf of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Renewable Energy

Question: To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps his Department is taking to ensure that part L of the Building Regulations encourages the greater use of renewable energy systems in the built environment.

Answer: Part L of the Building Regulations sets levels for energy performance in ways that offer designers the flexibility to choose solutions that best meet their needs, are cost-effective and practical, and enable innovation. Without prescribing solutions this enables builders to take up the benefits of renewable energy systems.In September 2005, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister announced further improvements to these energy efficiency requirements that will come into effect in April 2006 and will encourage greater take-up of renewable and other low and zero carbon systems.To help designers, ODPM is publishing a Low and Zero Carbon Guide alongside the part L changes to highlight the contribution that these technologies can make to overall energy performance.

Secondary information