It is extremely important that the buildings, businesses and services in Brighton and Hove are improved upon to meet energy efficiency targets. One of the major objectives is achieving sustainable development of renewable energy.
Since October 2003 all main council buildings have used electricity sourced from renewable sources, while in 2008 a Sustainable Building Supplementary Planning Document was adopted to set out a benchmark for the use of renewable energy in new buildings.
Below you will find some of the key national policies that relate to the reduction of energy use and CO2 emissions from buildings. All of these initiatives promote the reduction of carbon emissions and support carbon reduction in Brighton and Hove, and were provided by Brighton based central heating specialist http://www.bsw-bs.co.uk/services/central-heating/.
The Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that aims to “achieve the stabilisation of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that prevents dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system”.
EU CO2 Reduction Targets
This is what the UK is committed to when it comes to meeting specific targets agreed by the European Commission and the Member States in an effort to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020.
Climate Change Act (2008)
This is a legally binding target aiming to reduce UK CO2 emissions by a minimum of 26% on 1990 levels by 2020. It also focuses on achieving an 80% reduction by 2050. Carbon budgets have been translated using these targets, with a CO2 reduction of 50% hoped for between 2023 and 2027. By 2018 a 25% reduction in CO2 levels is hoped for.
UK Renewable Energy Strategy
Renewable sources will be the supply of 15% of all energy that is used in the UK by 2020 in accordance with the UK Renewable Energy Strategy (2009). There is hope that this target will be achieved through using renewable energy technologies to supply over 30% of electricity, 12% of heat and 1% of transport energy.
National Planning Policy Framework
This replaced National Planning Policy Statements in March 2012 and looks to place emphasis on Local plans, giving Local Authorities more responsibility and ensuring sustainable development. It also includes a statement on the provision of housing based on demand rather than supply. This could lead to an increase in housing development levels.
Energy Act (2011)
Additional support will be provided for energy efficiency measures to both domestic and commercial properties through the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation. From April 2016 domestic landlords cannot refuse a tenant’s request (within reason) for consent to energy efficiency measures where there is a financial package available. The Green Deal is a government initiative launched in 2013.
How Can You Be Greener?
There are a number of ways Brighton and Hove-based occupants can contribute to the energy efficiency targets put forward. Eco-friendly cleaning agents, high efficiency central heating systems and switching off electricity are two of the simplest and most effective ways of contributing.
Central Heating Systems
A smaller carbon footprint can be adopted by replacing your boiler system with a good condensing model. You should also look to fit radiators with individual thermostatic controls which allow for different temperatures throughout the household and give you more control over the temperature of your home.
Any heat you manage to generate efficiently, whether that’s through solar panels, biomass heating systems or thermostatic controls, can be lost as a result of poor insulation. A well-insulated roof will ensure the heat produced by your central heating system is saved.