New Green Building Standards for Scotland

New rules for sustainable building standards have been released in Scotland this week.

The standards will be implemented in autumn this year. They have been designed with energy efficiency in mind, with hopes that carbon emissions can be reduced from Scottish homes.

Energy efficient measures that can help to ensure new properties use less energy include double glazing in windows in doors, insulation in lofts and walls, draught proofing and energy efficient boilers. All of these can make homes cheaper to run and naturally warmer during cold winter months.

The plans also include provisions for sound insulation and security features in buildings.

These higher standards for energy efficiency are designed to help Scotland cut down on carbon emissions by 30% compared to 2007 levels, according to the Scottish government.

Infrastructure minister in Scotland, Stewart Stevenson, said that ‘I expect higher demand for small scale renewables technologies as developers look at ways to meet the new standards, giving Scotland new opportunities for jobs and investment in low carbon industries.’

He also added the benefits of saving money, and the fact that energy efficient technology will make homes better places to live in.

The new rules will be listed in a technical handbook that has already been published by the Scottish authorities. This will come into effect on 1st October.