Biggest energy efficiency steps in 30 years

The changes will see:
·    Tougher insulation requirements (including double glazing in most climates)
·    A new Compliance Document making it easier and cheaper to install solar water heating systems across New Zealand
·    New requirements for energy efficient lighting in new and refitted commercial buildings, a move expected to save building owners around $8 million a year in energy costs nationally.

"A home built under the new standards will save anywhere from $760 to $1800 a year on power bills, quickly making up for any additional up front costs associated with the regulations. We also know that warmer and dryer homes are much healthier homes," Prime Minister Helen Clark said.

From this November new houses in the South Island and the North Island’s Central Plateau will need more insulation and double-glazing. Improvements to house insulation will take effect in most of the North Island in July 2008 and for Auckland and further north from October next year.  

Building Minister Clayton Cosgrove also announced two further proposals for public consultation. The first would require domestic hot water systems in new homes to be more energy efficient, while the second would apply energy efficiency standards to heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems in new commercial buildings.

Consultation on these ideas has now begun, and the relevant documents are on the Department of Building and Housing’s website. Consultation will close on 29 June 2007, with decisions announced from October 2007.

More information on the existing measures and new proposals can be found at www.dbh.govt.nz/energy-efficiency