New carbon neutral homes 'possible through innovation'

Home builders are innovating to meet the government's target for carbon neutral homes by 2016, according to one industry expert.

Housing minister Grant Shapps said that the definition of carbon zero would be extended in order to allow developers and councils more flexibility in constructing new homes.

Landlords looking to expand their portfolios may be interested to know how new properties will meet standards for green homes.

Vernon Pethard, of newhomesforsale.co.uk, said: "Builders are continually researching environmentally friendly ways of construction, better methods of heating, insulating and providing white goods and appliances with the highest possible energy ratings wherever possible.

"Builders aim to use recyclable materials and to preserve the local landscape as much as they can, taking steps to ensure trees and shrubs are added [�] whenever possible."

The new definition means that builders could meet obligations through funding community energy projects, such as district heating schemes and wind farms, though new homes will have to meet some minimum energy efficiency measures.

Posted by Luella Ravelin

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