Will zero-carbon decision stifle green innovation?
4th August 2015

The Government’s decision to lift the zero-carbon housing standard may have been widely welcomed in the industry but Pilkington UK Commercial Director Andy McDowell warns there is a risk it could slow the pace of innovation in energy saving in glazing and construction.

In a statement issued today, he said: “Previous regulations have strongly driven our industry towards higher energy performance levels, something that was unlikely to have been adopted otherwise. Not only has tightening legislation led to the improved energy efficiency of buildings, it has also created opportunities for investment and employment across the UK glass and glazing industry.

 “Without the driver of having to achieve zero carbon homes by 2016, and in the absence of any other strong UK government or regulatory incentives, we are likely to see a slower pace of change and innovation – such as the conversion to triple glazing – meaning reduced economic and environmental benefits.

 “It will be interesting to see if the EU announces any further developments to its target for all new buildings to be nearly zero-energy by 2020, as this is the only regulation to now encourage the development of energy-efficient homes.”

www.pilkington.co.uk