BC Update: No.48 - Energy efficiency of buildings consultation on energy efficiency of buildings opens
6 November 2006: Building Issues Minister Clayton Cosgrove has announced the opening of a public consultation on ways to lift the energy efficiency of our homes and workplaces.
Your feedback is invited on proposals to amend the New Zealand Building Code and Compliance Documents. The changes proposed:
- require better insulation for new homes, including double-glazing
- improve the efficiency of lighting in commercial buildings
- introduce an Acceptable Solution for installing solar water-heating systems.
The proposed changes will lower power and gas bills and make warmer, healthier, and more comfortable homes and workplaces a reality.
These proposals are part of the Government’s increased focus on improving energy efficiency and combating the effects of climate change.
A comprehensive review of the Building Code is underway. However, these energy efficiency proposals are measures we can take in the short to medium term to improve the energy efficiency of buildings prior to the implementation of any changes from the Building Code review process.
How to comment
The closing date for submitting comments on the proposed changes is 22 December 2006.
Comments can be submitted in writing, preferably by email or in clear handwriting, to the Department at the addresses below.
The Discussion document can be downloaded at www.dbh.govt.nz [PDF 485 KB, 74 pages]. Or call the Department on 0800 242 243 for a hard copy.
Please post or courier comments to:
Consultation feedback – Energy Efficiency of Buildings
Department of Building and Housing
Building Controls
Level 6, 86 Customhouse Quay
PO Box 10 -729
Wellington
Or email comments to comments@dbh.govt.nz with ‘Consultation feedback – Energy Efficiency of Buildings’ in the subject line.
Or fax to ‘Consultation feedback – Energy Efficiency of Buildings’ on (04) 494 0290.