Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) and Building Regulations (Part L Amendment) Regulations 2008
- The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) contains a range of provisions aimed at improving energy performance of residential and non-residential buildings, both new-build and existing.
- To satisfy the requirements of the EPBD, new improved energy performance standards have been set for all new buildings in the Republic of Ireland in the revised Building Regulations Part L.
- The principal aims of the new Part L is for a 40% reduction with respect to 2004 levels in energy demand and carbon dioxide emissions associated with heating, domestic hot water and lighting leading to more sustainable homes and buildings.
- In 2010 this will be amended further to demand a 60% reduction.
The building fabric performance, that is the extent to which a building’s walls, floors, roof and glazing limits heat loss, is the biggest single factor in providing an energy efficient design. An effective fabric reduces the energy required to heat the building, thereby cutting the amount of fuel required. This results in a reduction in the associated CO2 emissions and a reduction in the energy costs, a very important factor at a time of spiralling prices. The use of thermal insulation is the most cost effective way of ensuring an effective building fabric performance and improved energy efficiency.
