Scottish Greens welcome commitment on “Passivhaus” standard for new homes
The Scottish Greens have welcomed firm commitments for all new homes to meet so-called Passivhaus standards of energy efficiency.
Green minister Patrick Harvie wrote yesterday to MSP Alex Rowley to say that the Scottish Government will continue its work on improving energy standards as its preferred way of meeting the aims of Mr Rowley’s Members Bill on the same topic.
Scottish Greens housing spokesperson Ariane Burgess MSP said:
“This is clearly something that will be of particular interest for many people right now amid freezing temperatures and the ongoing energy crisis. It is just one part of the vital work ongoing into making homes safe, warm, dry and easy to heat.
“Through our Agreement with the Scottish Government last year we made our commitment to Passivhaus equivalent standards absolutely clear, because it is a crucial step-change to protect individuals, families and our climate.
“So that is why I welcome confirmation from Minister Patrick Harvie that he will give effect to Alex Rowley’s very similar proposals and so avoid the need for any new, standalone Bill.
“I also look forward to seeing further progress being made through the upgrades to building and energy regulations which come on stream in just two months' time, as we look to ensure people and planet and central to the work being continued.
“I commend all those involved for working together to achieve this common sense approach and look forward to helping them to achieve these goals.”