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Changes Proposed for Insulation Standards

Changes Proposed for Insulation Standards

Building Minister Chris Penk says the government is proposing changes to reduce building costs.

The New Zealand government has announced plans to review its recently implemented H1 energy efficiency standards. Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk stated that these new standards were adding significant costs, despite their benefits. To address this issue, Minister Penk instructed MBIE to review the standards and propose adjustments.

MBIE has completed its review and suggested several changes, including removing a prescriptive "schedule method" for setting insulation requirements. This would allow designers to optimize energy performance at a lower cost using alternative methods such as calculation and modelling. The proposed adjustments also include adjusting minimum R-values for roof, wall, and floor insulation, giving builders more flexibility.

Additionally, MBIE will update climate data used to calculate regional insulation requirements. These updates are expected to address issues of overwarm homes in some regions. Minister Penk encourages industry participants to submit on the proposed changes to achieve balanced and workable standards that prioritize energy efficiency and affordability.