New Builds Are Leading the Way for Energy-Efficient Properties
New Builds Are Leading the Way for Energy-Efficient Properties
If you’re looking to save on your energy bills, a new home could be just right.
Many first-time buyers are drawn by the timeless appeal of barn conversions and the warm character of red brick houses, but these properties often come with huge heating costs.
Exploring new-build homes will reveal opportunities to benefit from cutting-edge features, many of which offer competitive energy efficiency too. Green technologies not only futureproof a property but also help you save money, so it’s worth exploring the latest developments in the sector.
- Stricter building regulations and higher standards
Enhanced building regulations specify higher efficiency standards for new build homes in the UK.
For example, the Future Homes Standard came into effect in 2025 and mandates energy-efficient designs and building practices. This scheme targets a reduction in carbon emissions, aiming for up to 80% less than current regulations.
According to a recent report published by HBF, it’s now estimated that new build homes emit 65% less carbon per year. They’re not only a more cost-effective choice but a kinder one for the planet too.
- High-efficiency appliances
Among home builders, there’s a growing trend towards incorporating renewable energy technologies into new homes. This is driven by various factors, including regulatory incentives, local schemes, and a wider shift towards sustainable lifestyles.
On larger developments, new homes often include kitchen appliances like washing machines, fridges, freezers and dishwashers as part of the standard package. These typically have an A-rated energy label to reflect their efficiency and cost-effective operation.
- Enhanced heating technologies
Along with highly efficient appliances, new homes increasingly feature modern heating systems compatible with smart thermostats. When used correctly, smart technologies make central heating systems more efficient and offer tangible savings to homeowners.
With certain smart thermostat models, homeowners can control and adjust the temperature of their home from their mobile phone.
That means heating can be switched on or off, or set to follow a timer, even when the house is empty. For buy-to-let investors, smart heating systems are highly sought after.
- Quality designs
Modern design and construction practices are playing an integral role in reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainable, comfortable lifestyles. These include:
- High-performance insulation made from cutting-edge materials like fibreglass, mineral wool, or cellulose.
- Enhanced draught-proofing to seal all cracks or gaps where air could leak either in or out, covering every opening.
- Efficient doors and windows with high-quality double glazing and enhanced seals, plus strong locks for security.
- Ventilation using both natural and mechanical methods to meet building regulations and promote healthy air quality.
- Smart devices
Finally, it’s not just thermostats saving homeowners money.
Further installation of smart home devices makes for a fully integrated household, extending possibilities beyond ‘on’ and ‘off’ settings for almost every system and appliance.
These can enhance security and offer additional convenience to families and professionals moving into new homes. From motion-activated outdoor lights to smart locks, there’s a solution for every home, and many of these are available with new builds.