Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2025
680. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the additional cost imposed on housing delivery by NZEB standards; the inflation impact of these standards; and whether the Department has assessed the cumulative cost for all units to 2030. [63958/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) details requirements for the application of minimum energy performance requirements to new buildings and requires Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) performance for new buildings since 31 December 2020. This NZEB requirement typically equates to a BER of A2.
As required by the EPBD, performance requirements are set at cost optimal level, which is the lowest lifecycle cost taking account of capital, energy, maintenance and disposal costs over a period of 30 years.
A Regulatory Impact Assessment including the cost of improved energy performance requirements for dwellings were published as part of the preparation of Part L of the Building Regulations 2019 and is available at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/publications/calculations-for-part-l-2018-technical-guidance-document-dwellings/.
The construction of new dwellings to an NZEB ‘A’ rated Buildings Energy Rating "BER" ensures that as we deliver new housing we will also be providing quality sustainable homes with very low energy bills. These homes will be healthier and more comfortable, do not contribute to carbon emissions, and ensure that homeowners pay the lowest cost over the lifetime of the building.
