Mr. Anthony D. WrightTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to reduce the UK's carbon emissions through the introduction of a requirement in building regulations to fit solar panels to all new developments. [185439]
§ Phil HopeThe Building Regulations set functional requirements rather than specifying particular ways of showing compliance. This enables builders to develop their own ways of complying with the requirements, using conventional or new technologies as appropriate. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is reviewing the energy efficiency provisions in line with the commitments made in the Energy White Paper and the prospective higher standards that we aim to bring into effect in 2005 will make systems like solar panels more attractive. The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister shall be announcing consultations on the proposed amendments on 21 July.