Scotland’s new Domestic Building Environmental Standards Bill has been endorsed by government, which sets out that all new housing must meet passive house standards in the future.
Secondary legislation will be used to secure the standard, which is expected to apply to new homes by 2024. The legislation stemmed from Alex Rowley MSP’s private member’s bill calling for all new housing to meet Passivhaus standard, or a Scottish equivalent. This was in response to the Scottish Climate Assembly Recommendations for Action, where 97% of the Assembly voted for the eco home measure to be introduced.
The new regulations will set a minimum standard for environmental design standards for new build homes to secure high levels of thermal performance and energy efficiency. This future proofs housing stock by helping residents to save money through improved performance, and help meet wider climate challenges.
Jon Bootland, CEO, Passivhaus Trust said, “It is a truly forward-thinking approach by the Scottish Government and a positive response to the 2021 Scottish Climate Assembly recommendations.
“They are to be applauded for taking this crucial step towards meeting their Net Zero/ Climate Emergency goals. Now we must ensure that the Bill is well developed and implemented to deliver the greatest impact on the actual performance of new homes in Scotland.”
