Treasury under fire for offsite renewables code

The treasury is holding back the use of offsite renewables for Code for Sustainable Homes level-six dwellings for fear of losing stamp-duty revenue, according to a code assessor.

Confusion surrounds the use of off-site renewable energy, which is not permitted for code level six homes, yet seems to be allowed for lower-level dwellings.

Sustainable development consultant Julian Brooks told CJ that without the use of off-site renewable energy it is almost impossible to reach zero-carbon construction.

He said: "We've done some modelling for clients on eco developments in the UK and we have found there is insufficient roof space to install the necessary amount of photovoltaics to offset electricity demands. The government seems to have shut the door on off-site renewables as it doesn't want a host of stamp-duty exempt dwellings going up - it needs the revenue."

Part of the problem is the ambiguity of the guidance regarding off-site technology and its accreditation. This has enabled the Treasury to amend the definition to its benefit under the auspices of being fiscally watertight.

The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) is lobbying the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) and the Treasury for clarification on the issue. It is working on a formal recommendation to the 2016 taskforce to promote the inclusion of offsite renewables.

Paul King, UKGBC chief executive, said: "Ultimately, if we are to deliver zero-carbon homes across the board, we will need to crack the problem of how to include credible offsite solutions within the definition.

"We have offered to compile this report to help government provide the best policy framework for bringing zero carbon into the mainstream. We look forward to working closely with DCLG and other stakeholders on this shared goal."