_Energy efficiency and eco credentials: why new homes hold increasing appeal
Energy efficiency and eco credentials: why new homes hold increasing appeal
Property
With soaring energy prices and an increasing awareness of our environmental impact, many are looking for more cost-effective and environmentally conscious homes. Here, 3 new homes experts share their insights into the benefits their developments offer.
Now, more than ever, agents are citing an increased interest in greener homes from potential buyers. Our recent housing market sentiment survey showed that higher energy costs are a key driver for those searching for a more energy efficient home. New developments tend to come out on top when it comes to energy efficiency. According to our research,
The numbers are compelling. Our analysis of EPC data from more than 600,000 new and existing properties transacted over the last 3 years points to an average 56% saving on annual energy costs (lighting, heating and hot water) when comparing a new-build with an existing property.
Oliver Knight, Head of Residential Development Research, Knight Frank
Source: Knight Frank Research
Burrington Estates: Tilehurst Green
We spoke to 3 new homes professionals to gain their expert insights into the benefits of residential developments – Alison Bowen of Newland Homes, John Scott of Burrington Estates and Lucy Clifton of our South East Residential Development team.
What are some of the key features that make a home eco-friendly?
LC: Sustainable materials and sources, EV charging points, solar panels, water butts, air source heat pumps, low energy appliances.
AB: A new home by Newland Homes is not only eco-friendly but also zero carbon. By jettisoning gas boilers in favour of air source heat pumps, adding high quality solar panels and upping the insulation levels, it’s made our homes zero carbon.
Energy efficiency is a key topic. How do new build properties rate?
AB: Our homes are EPC ‘A’ rated, meaning that throughout the year energy consumption will be lower than the average UK detached ‘D’ rated home. Another benefit is underfloor heating to the ground floor, bringing a more comfortable and even feel to the whole area. And with no gas included, there’s only one standing charge to pay for with electricity, and with energy costs as they are today, to not have a gas standing charge can be quite a saving.
JS: New research has revealed that new build properties could save homeowners more than £3,000 on annual energy bills because of the associated lower running costs.
What are some financial benefits of owning an eco-friendly home?
JS: Well insulated new builds that incorporate environmentally friendly features such as Solar PV, air source heat pumps, underfloor heating, and low energy appliances are a smart investment. These properties are future proofed; residents will not be faced with the need for an expensive conversion from high carbon gas heating systems in future years.
LC: As John mentioned, the cost to retro fit some of these features is large and with the production and installation of gas boilers ceasing in 2025, it’s important to think of these things now to future proof homes.
Burrington Estates: Tilehurst Green
Are there any specific certifications or ratings that buyers should be looking for when evaluating the sustainability of a home?
AB: All homes now come with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Even when buying off plan before the home is built, each property has a Predicted Energy Assessment carried out in the design stage. These indicate how energy efficient a home is and what its environmental impact is. Our zero carbon homes are all above EPC ‘A’ rating for ‘Energy Efficiency’ and ‘Environmental Impact’, even scoring above the ‘100’ points maximum.
What are some of the most innovative and sustainable materials being used in eco-friendly homes?
AB: One innovative feature is the technology involved in our zero carbon homes. With air source heat pumps in use, if there is a sudden drop in external temperature, the technology senses this and adjusts the system so that the temperature indoors remains constant and occupants won’t all of a sudden feel cold and need to crank the thermostat temperature up.
How about the impact of development on the natural environment?
JS: Tilehurst Green works with the area to minimise the environmental impact of the development. The site benefits from a wildlife pond, to encourage biodiversity and is set against a magnificent backdrop of oak and TPO-protected mature trees that line the site’s boundary. [It’s] constructed with materials from sustainable sources.
In order to offset the carbon footprint of construction, the planting of 10 trees per home through More:Trees will save an estimated 69 tonnes of carbon [at our EX3 development in Devon].
See 5 eco homes for sale in the UK
Find 5 energy efficient homes for sale in the UK
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