Cost v benefits of energy efficient housing in the UK

Improving energy efficiency is one of the most cost effective ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Energy use is the main source of greenhouse gas emissions with more than half of total emissions generated by the combustion of fuels. As part of the international movement towards controlling the global warming and UK's commitment to Kyoto Protocol in reducing the green house gases, the UK government has decided to revise the current Part L to a higher standard. Revising the Building Regulations' energy efficiency requirements is a major contributor towards achieving the target of reduction in carbon emissions by 2010 as set in Government's White Paper and Action Plan. Identifying the most cost effective ways of enhancing the energy performance of new dwellings will be a great step towards the viability of energy efficiency movement. The developers must have financial courage to move in this direction. Creating a balance between enhancing the energy efficiency of a dwelling and its costs implications is the key in achieving optimum results.