BRE IP5/14 PDF

Introduction The UK government has set itself the challenging target – known as the ‘C80' target – of reducing long-term carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from energy use by 80% by 2050, based on a 1990 benchmark, with an interim target reduction of 34% by 2020. These targets will require significant and challenging refurbishment programmes to be applied to UK housing.

The domestic sector contributes approximately 27% to the UK's total carbon emissions. The majority of household emissions are a result of energy use for heating, so there is a significant incentive to improve the energy performance of homes in order to meet these targets. Renovating and improving the existing housing stock to a high standard will reduce UK emissions from fuel combustion.

This Information Paper looks at the case study of the Penrhiwceiber Eco Terrace, set in the Welsh Valleys. It sets out the extent of the works that are required to meet the C80 target for a number of dwellings constructed prior to 1920, which are of solid wall construction and occupy a relatively small footprint. This publication also examines the benefits of refurbishing these older properties rather than demolishing them in favour of new construction and provides a simple cost comparison for renovation versus newbuild. It is argued that the benefits of maintaining community cohesion by retaining the character and appearance of older buildings should not be underestimated when evaluating any particular approach.