§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what his plans are for including micro-renewables in building regulations; and if he will make a statement. [177711]
§ 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 are likely to make new systems like micro-renewables mere attractive. I hope to announce consultation on the proposed new requirements in the next few weeks.