The second part of the Zero-Carbon Homes article we have been reading here at BuilderScrap, looks at what the measures for these homes actually mean.

02 / What do these measures mean?
Measure
Energy efficiency
Carbon compliance
(the minimum level of reduction in CO2 emissions that must be achieved on site and/or through direct connection of low/zero carbon heat
Allowable solutions
(a range of options for dealing with the residual CO2 emissions not tackled by on-site renewable energy generation and/or direct connection to low/zero-carbon heat)
Achieved how?
Improved insulation, low-energy lighting, high efficiency pumps, fans
Limited application of renewable energy and/or connection to district heating to achieve a minimum level of reduction in CO2 emissions
Any or all of the following …
• On-site renewable energy generation
• Installation of energy efficient appliances/building control systems
• Exports of low-carbon or renewable heat (or cooling) to surrounding developments
• S106 planning obligations towards allowable solutions
• Retrofitting of existing buildings in the locality
• Investments in LZC energy infrastructure (benefits of ownership transferred to homebuyer)
• Offsite renewable electricity connected via direct physical connection
• Any other measures announced by government

These measures can work towards achieving sustainable construction of zero carbon homes.  The third part of this article looks at the issues involved – coming soon!