Trevor Sargent
Question:206 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will ensure the existing built environment becomes energy efficient. [24113/02]
Written Answers. - Energy Efficiency.
The Government's national climate change strategy, published in November 2000, includes proposals to control greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment through a range of measures including improved energy efficiency of existing buildings. Full implementation of these and all other measures outlined in the strategy will be pursued over the rest of the decade, in order to achieve the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions required to ensure that Ireland complies with the Kyoto Protocol.
In accordance with my Department's commitments under the strategy, part L of the National Building Regulations and the related technical guidance document L, Conservation of Fuel and Energy, were amended in June. The amended part L regime sets significantly higher insulation and thermal performance standards for new dwellings with effect from 1 January 2003. The regulations will apply to the replacement of external doors, windows and rooflights in existing dwellings with effect from 1 July 2003.
The new part L regime is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by 300,000 tones per annum by 2012. This is the end of the period for delivery on our commitments under the Kyoto Protocol. I plan to publish a draft technical guidance document proposing higher thermal performance and insulation standards for non-residential buildings, including factories, offices, and shops, in spring 2003.
A proposed EU directive on energy performance of buildings, which is expected to be adopted by the end of year, provides for,inter alia, the mandatory energy performance certification of new and existing buildings being sold or let. My Department will co-ordinate the development of detailed proposals, in consultation with other relevant Departments and agencies, for: the introduction of legislation to give effect to the Directive by the proposed EU deadline of end 2005; and the practical implementation of the mandatory energy rating certification system no later than end 2008.
Copies of the national climate change strategy and the progress report on implementation of the strategy, together with the amended part L and the related technical guidance document L, are available in the Oireachtas Library.