New homes will only use 'clean energy sources' for heating and power, says Welsh Government
Welsh Government plans could see all new Welsh homes powered and heated only by "clean energy sources" from 2025.
The need for "substantial changes" could see homes installed with solar panels, triple glazing and sharing heating and hot water from a central source as part of the proposal.
It is part of Welsh Government plans to address the climate emergency it declared last year.
9 per cent of Welsh greenhouse gas emissions come from new and existing homes, according to the Welsh Government.
New legislation to reduce greenhouse gases by 95 per cent will be brought in later this year, with an ambition to reach net zero in future.
The Welsh Government said buildings must produce close to zero emissions by 2050 if climate targets are to be met.
It said when the "tough new standards" are implemented, homes should produce 75-80 per cent less CO2 emissions than those built to current requirements.
Proposals to "future-proof" new homes include:
Phasing out high-carbon fossil fuel use: Homes must use alternative renewable energy sources, such as solar panels
Improving energy efficiency: Introduced measures that limit heat loss and reduce the demand for heat, such as triple glazing
Improving air quality: Ensuring the supply and removal of air to and from a space or spaces in a building provides good air quality.
Read more:
Wales' first ever climate change conference set to take place
Climate change - Is there still hope and what can you do to help?
Housing Minister, Julie James said: “New and existing housing contribute about a fifth of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions.
"If we are to meet our ambitious target of reducing our greenhouse gas emissions by 95% by 2050, we need to take action now to make a significant step change to the way we heat and power our homes.
“The proposed consultation, for implementation over the next five years, makes a strong and meaningful contribution to reducing the carbon and energy impact of new homes, while recognising our ambition needs to be balanced against the desire for standards to be cost-effective, affordable and practical.
“These measures will not only help tackle climate change, but they will also help keep down household energy costs now and in the future - helping people, no matter what their background or circumstances, with the cost of living.”
Consultations on the proposals end in March.