Energy lobbies target MPs for private bill

A new guide intended to ensure the energy efficiency of new and existing buildings has been launched by the Construction Industry Council.

The move comes as the CIC prepares to recruit an energy-conscious MP prepared to present a Home Energy Ratings Survey as a private members' Bill in Parliament.

Co-ordinating the campaign is the Association for the Conservation of Energy, acting in conjunction with the CIC. Balloted MP's have three weeks from Thursday 22 May to decide on what cause to support.

According to Graham Watts, CIC chief executive, there are no obvious contenders at this stage, but all MP's granted a hearing in the annual private members ballot are being lobbied.

Changes to legislation would render mortgage companies liable to have a survey and assessment of the energy efficiency of a building carried out. Among other considerations, the rating would be based on ventilation, thermal insulation and use of daylight.

Energy Conscious Design is working on a similar project, funded by the Department of Environment. The project is looking at ways to reduce the impact of buildings on the environment by having environmental and energy issues considered and implemented routinely as part of the design and specification process through the National Building Specification.

Energy efficiency is one of its concerns; insulation, heating and water economy all form part of the brief which will be up to NBS services to decide how it wishes to implement any recommendations.

Meanwhile, the CIC guide will act to enlighten clients, designers, engineers and surveyors to the importance of implementing energy efficient measures at the building concept stage.

Both ACE and CIC see the guide as a positive move, with the advantages being that buildings need not cost more; running costs will be lower; future rent, sale or leasing value will rise; environmentally more acceptable buildings also contribute to a sustainable resources programe; and they have a marketing advantage.