The findings of a comprehensive survey by Halifax Estate Agents reveals that two out of five homes in England and Wales (44%) rate ‘average’ for energy efficiency, falling into B and D of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) which grades the energy efficiency of a house.
New homes being built today, however, are at least a quarter more energy-efficient than existing older homes. At North Chase, Newhall in Harlow, Essex, the new mid-terraced houses have an average EPC rating of B, which only 1% of homes in England and Wales have attained. For all new house types at Newhall the EPC ratings exceed the average for all homes, as found by the Halifax Survey.
North Chase, Newhall in Harlow, Essex
The homes’ energy efficiency is one facet of a broader sustainable agenda being practised at Newhall, set in the Essex countryside several miles from Harlow town centre. The design and layout of every street at the latest phase, North Chase, has been carefully considered to maximise passive solar gain that enhances the homes’ natural light and provides super warm buildings.
Additionally, sustainable and renewable materials have been used wherever possible in the construction of the properties, including timber specifically chosen for its insulation qualities. Using modern methods of construction, the houses are constructed off-site and erected on-site. The practise saves time, money and lessens CO2 emissions. Prices at Newhall start from £185,000.
Old Apple Store, Stawell in Somerset
At the Old Apple Store, Stawell in Somerset, the new detached houses have an average EPC rating of C, falling just one point short of a B rating which only 1% of homes have attained. The EPC rating exceeds the average for all homes in the survey, as found by Halifax Estate Agents. Prices at the Old Apple Store start from £275,000.
The homes’ energy efficiency is outshone by its A rating for environmental impact. The detached homes at the Old Apple Store score 102 points, emitting just 0.3 tonnes of CO2 annually. The average household in the UK emits 6 tonnes of CO2 each year. The marker for the A Band is 92 points. Even among eco homes it is the best score yet seen to date.
Fairglen, Hayle near St Ives in Cornwall
At Fairglen, Hayle near St Ives in Cornwall, the new three-bedroom houses have an average EPC rating of C, scoring 80 on the scale which is only 1 point away from being awarded a B rating. Other eco-initiatives being implemented include heating and hot water from ground-source heat exchangers, photovoltaic arrays, and rainwater harvesting.
The energy efficiency at the homes in Fairglen is so good that projected per annum running costs amount to only £358 – lighting £44, heating £207, hot water £107. The annual bill for heating, lighting and hot water in the average three-bedroom house in England would be in the region of £1,000 per year. Prices at Fairglen start from £250,000.
