Building a home or committing to a major retrofit project is an opportunity to keep future running costs to a minimum
WORDS JAYNE DOWLE
It makes long-term financial sense to employ energy-saving strategies when constructing a new home or improving an older house. The cost of components, materials and renewables necessary to achieve an efficient building design is part and parcel of a new-build budget, while the retrofitting outlay and process can be done all at once, or managed in stages as funds allow. Get it right and you’ll benefit from comparatively low bills for heating, cooling and hot water. But there is only so far futureproofing can go when coping with utility costs influenced by global conditions and regulated by Ofgem, the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (ofgem.gov.uk).
Minimise energy demand
Designing a home to optimise the efficient performance of its structural components and materials ensures it will require remarkably little energy to remain comfortable during winter and summer.
Known as a fabric-first approach, of which Passivhaus is the optimal standard, such buildings need high levels of airtightness, sufficient insulation, double- or triple-glazed windows, and carefully designed shading to prevent overheating. It’s also possible to retrofit an older property towards reduced energy demands – Enerphit is the Passivhaus equivalent for retrofitting.
But big improvements can still be made without aiming for Enerphit certification. Prioritise elements such as sealing up draughts and insulation. Homes built or improved in this way are ideally set up to meet most or all their energy needs from renewable sources, keeping running costs low.
Harness the sun
