By 31st December 2020, all new buildings will need to meet the standards set by NZEB. By meeting the Near Zero Energy Building requirements, properties will have the best possible energy performance. But what is NZEB Ireland and what exactly should you do to meet these requirements and do you need to make improvements?
Pro Spray Foam Insulations provide a range of spray foam services. We can help all commercial and domestic buildings improve their energy standards.
What Is NZEB Ireland?
The Near Zero Energy Building standard is a new scheme to improve the energy performance of all domestic and non-domestic buildings. Although there are different requirements and standards for different types of buildings, the overall idea is to significantly improve energy performance throughout the whole of Ireland.
Nearly zero means a very low amount of energy required should be covered to a very significant extent from renewable sources. This is something that must be complied with in Ireland for the start of 2021. Any new build properties that are finished after the final dates must be in accordance with the NZEB standards, irrespective of when they started.
Although the majority of buildings must be Nearly Zero Energy Buildings by 2021, buildings acquired by public bodies should already meet these standards, as of 31st December 2018.
Non Domestic Requirements
The requirements for your particular building will vary and it is important your energy performance is met for both non-domestic and domestic buildings. For non-domestic buildings, you must achieve an equivalent of 60% energy performance improvement from the 2008 Building Regulations. Renewable resources must also provide 20% of primary energy use. There are exception if your building is already more energy-efficient than the new standards.
For any major renovation work to non-domestic buildings, which is defined as 25% of the building surface area undergoing renovation, you will be required to:
- Upgrade Cooling & Ventilation Systems More Than 15 Years Old
- Upgrade Heating System More Than 15 Years Old
- Upgrade Lighting More Than 15 Years Old
Domestic Building Requirements
The improvements for domestic buildings are less extreme, with the equivalent of a 25% energy performance improvement from 2011 building regulations being needed. Again, for any major renovation of over 25% of the surface area of the building envelope, the property must be brought up to a cost-optimal performance level and an improved energy-efficient standard. This could be property improvements for:
- External Floor Renovation
- External or Internal Insulation
- External Roof Renovation
- External Wall Renovation
- External Window Renovation
- New Extensions
If you are planning on having any of these renovations or looking for new build properties, it is essential to meet Near Zero Energy Building requirements. Improving energy performance within your home should make your home more eco-friendly as well as lowing energy bills. Although this change may seem stressful when it affects you, it can actually be very beneficial.
How Does Spray Foam Insulation Help?
Spray foam insulation is one of the best way to improve energy performance in your home. Whether this is applied to new builds, existing properties or when you are having renovation, it can be a fantastic addition to your property.
Spray foam insulation has been shown to improve thermal insulation within your home and therefore reduce energy consumption. This will significantly contribute to the energy performance within a home and help you achieve a Near Zero Energy Building. This works as it reduces air leakage, filling any gaps throughout your home.
Contact Us
For more information regarding what NZEB Ireland is or to discuss our spray foam insulation services, get in touch with us today. Call Pro Spray Foam Insulations now on (087)6323186 or fill in our contact form to make an enquiry.