Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 544: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is possible for local authorities to set higher energy efficiency standards, within their own local area plans or development plans, than those set out within part L of the building regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16142/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Minimum thermal performance and insulation standards for new buildings are prescribed by Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Energy) of the national Building Regulations. These standards have been progressively increased since they were first introduced in 1991. The standards were last increased for new Dwellings with effect from 1 January 2003; and for new Non-Domestic Buildings with effect from 1 July 2006. The next review of standards for dwellings will take place by 2008. I welcome any initiatives taken locally which enhance sustainable design in proposed developments and which are not in contravention of these standards.

In relation to the application and content of local area plans section 19 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provides that a local area plan shall indicate the objectives in such detail as may be determined by the planning authority for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area to which the plan applies, including detail on standards for the design of developments and structures. In accordance with section 10 and the First Schedule to the Act a development plan may include objectives for promoting design in structures for the purposes of flexible and sustainable use, including conservation of energy and resources.