This Section:
Proposed Changes to Part 2010
Changes to the 2006 Criterion
Changes to the regulations that would have required existing homes to be made more energy efficient (consequential improvements) if a building is substantially altered through refurbishment, extension or a loft conversion have been dropped, bizarrely in the light of the UK's requirement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Changes to the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive due to come into effect from 2011 will also require the UK implement regulations on consequential improvements a year after the proposed amendments to Part L are due to come into effect so retaining these proposed amendments would have been sensible.
Currently conservatories are dealt with as though they were not there unless there is no thermal separation between the conservatory and the dwelling, in which case it is included in the thermal envelope of the dwelling. Conservatories of floor area less than 30m2 are also exempt. It is, however, proposed that the 30m2 exemption for conservatories be removed from the 2010 Regulations.
The government wants all new non-domestic buildings to be net zero carbon by 2019 through phased steps in energy efficiency. The Part L changes will require a 25% reduction in carbon emissions in 2010 and another 44% reduction in 2013 compared to 2006 standards. The 25% target is significant because it will be an aggregate for all new non-domestic buildings - some buildings will be allowed to achieve less than 25% while others will be expected to exceed the target.
Changes to the 2006 Criterion