Buying a new build home is a great option if you are looking to be more energy efficient. Whether you’re looking for ways to cut down the cost of your energy bills or want to do your bit to help the environment, energy efficiency is a growing priority for many buyers – with one in four citing it as a key consideration when purchasing a house.
Buying a property from Lovell Homes can also save you up to £2,000 a year in energy bills, according to The Home Builders Federation (HBF), using research based on government Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) data.
Reasons to buy a new build home
The HBF recently released its autumn 2022 report, which showed how the improved energy efficiency of new build homes has a significant impact on their energy use. The average new build property uses approximately 9,094 kWh a year, compared to older properties which use an annual average of 21,621 kWh.
Second-hand houses also generate nearly three times as much carbon as their new build equivalent, paving the way for the Future Homes and Buildings Standard in 2025, which ensures all future homes are net zero ready and will not need retrofitting.
As the pressure on the climate increases, and with residential property in the UK accounting for more than 20% of the country’s emissions, the positive impact that new build homes can have on our progress towards net zero is vital
What makes new build homes more energy efficient?
The beauty of building a new home, is being able to implement modern methods and materials of construction, so energy saving starts right from the beginning.
Lovell Homes also looks to include a range of energy-saving features within its properties. This includes:
- Water – our homes use up to 30% less water than the average property through high performance, water efficient taps, toilets and showers.
- Appliances – we always fit energy-saving appliances where we can. A washing machine with an AA+ efficiency rating can use up to 70% less energy than a G rated machine.
- Electricity – we only fit energy-saving bulbs in our homes, which use 80% less electricity and last up to eight times longer.
- Insulation – we use energy-efficient insulation in all our homes, including double glazing and loft, floor and wall insulation. This keeps our homes toasty, while saving on energy consumption.
- Solar – on selected homes, such as our Spinners Quarter development in Salford, we include solar panels to produce hot water, further reducing CO2 emissions and energy bills.
What are the benefits of an energy-efficient home?
Perhaps the biggest advantage of new build homes is the long-term cost savings associated with using and wasting less energy. Given the ongoing energy crisis and rising fuel costs, it’s worth considering a new build home.
The HBF report found that on average, buyers of new homes save more than £2,000 on household bills per property each year, equivalent to £173 a month. For buyers of houses, as opposed to flats, the savings are even greater at £220 per month.
Energy-efficient homes are also an investment opportunity, with evidence suggesting new build homes tend to appreciate faster than pre-existing homes. Homes with higher EPC ratings are also reported to be worth more than lower ratings. At Lovell, our homes are typically rated A, B or C on the EPC scale. The average rating for an older property is D or E.
Of course, as well as saving money, energy efficiency is about saving the planet – and this starts at home. Looking at those homes registered with an EPC in the year to June 2022, the average new build emitted 1.4 tonnes of carbon over the year, whilst the average existing dwelling emitted 3.7 tonnes. A huge saving on your overall carbon footprint.
How can I get a new build home?
If you want to learn more about what Lovell Homes has to offer, a simple way to start is by looking at some of our popular developments. The contemporary properties at Pendleton’s Spinners Quarter offer energy efficiency measures, on average, 52% better than building regulation standards through enhanced fabric thermal improvements.
The development not only offers energy efficient properties – which are considerably higher than current building regulation standards through enhanced fabric thermal improvements – but also incorporates several innovative features. This includes a cycle street linking into wider Salford cycle routes, rain gardens – planted areas on the main street to help with natural drainage – and adjacent allotments.
Of course, there are many other things to consider when looking for your ideal home. The Gateway is perfect for those seeking a more urban lifestyle, nestled on the edge of the hip Ancoats neighbourhood in Manchester.
For a more rural feel, Shawbrook Manor in Leyland boasts stunning views of the Lancashire countryside while being well connected with the Lake District to the north and Greater Manchester to the south.
You can register your interest on our website or book an appointment to speak with our sales team via the development pages.
For more information on energy efficiency or our developments, visit: New Build Homes | New Housing Developments | Lovell Homes
To read the full ‘Watt a Save’ report by Home Builders Federation (HBF) visit: HBF_Energy_report_-_Watt_a_save_-_Oct_2022.pdf
