With the recent release of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 for public discussion, the new code intends to place greater emphasis upon a net zero energy buildings target. This target will be achieved by increasing the energy efficiency of residential buildings.
Improving the energy efficiencies of new homes can result in significant benefits; such as a reduction in energy bills, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, less reliance on the energy grid and a healthier, more comfortable home for building occupants.
To achieve this target, NCC 2022 has put forward two options, both of which focus on increasing the level of thermal comfort of new homes to a minimum 7 Stars Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS).
Multiple factors can ultimately contribute to an increase in star rating; including building orientation, construction materials used, design features and insulation.
Using insulation like Kingspan Kooltherm K17 Insulated Plasterboard can increase the thermal performance of a home, resulting in a higher energy efficiency star rating. Kingspan Kooltherm K17 Insulated Plasterboard is a closed cell phenolic foam insulation with a fibre-free core. Kingspan Kooltherm K17 Insulated Plasterboard installs similar to a plasterboard, has almost twice the thermal performance of a standard batt and is extremely easy to work with. Kingspan Kooltherm K17 will help achieve a 7+ Star NatHERs rating, while maintaining original frame thickness along with reducing the amount of double glazing needed.
