Why new build homes are more environmentally friendly
High energy bills and the need to protect the environment are just some of the reasons why a sustainable home might be on your wish list. If you're looking for a modern, eco-friendly home, here's why you should consider a Persimmon new build.
With many of having to keep an eye on our energy-consumption, it's great new that buyer of new build houses saved an average of £2,200 last year on their energy bills, compared to those who own older properties.
This is due to the fantastic energy-saving features that make new build homes more efficient.
Our new homes are also kinder to the planet. Along with including great energy-saving features, new build homes emit just a third of the carbon produced by traditional housing. As a company, there are many ways we're working to reduce our impact on the environment, and boost nature and wildlife on our sites.
Here's a closer look at what goes into making our eco-friendly homes.
1. We build our homes with energy-efficient features
Persimmon houses are built with energy efficiency in mind. This includes argon-filled double-glazed windows, high efficiency thermal insulation in walls and roofs, energy-saving heating systems, and modern appliances that will save you money in the long and short term.
As part of our plan to have net-zero carbon homes in use by 2030, we're also starting to build low-carbon and zero-carbon homes across some of our sites, which include innovative technologies such as solar panels, battery storage and MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat recovery).
2. Lower emissions make new builds the greener option
The climate crisis, along with rising costs, is making more people stop and think about the choices they make - so much so, that the HBF found that 1 in 4 home buyers put energy efficiency as a key consideration when they purchase a house.
Luckily, the energy-efficient features of new builds mean each new house saves an average of 2.2 tonnes of CO2 every year compared to older properties, leading to a 500,000 tonne reduction in carbon emissions in total. This, along with our efforts to encourage biodiversity and greener living, means that moving to a new Persimmon home is a win for the environment.
3. Our Eco Range reduces carbon emissions further
Following a change in government rules that means new build homes must produce 31% fewer carbon emissions, our homes are becoming even better for the environment.
Our Persimmon Eco Range includes air source heat pumps and increased levels of thermal insulation. Some eco homes come with electric vehicle charging points, and PV solar panels to take advantage of the sun’s energy and save you money on energy bills.
In fact, the HBF finds that new houses built in line with the government regulations will save an average of £2,600 each year compared to older properties.
4. We contribute to biodiversity on our sites
Our developments don't just provide a home for you - they also house local wildlife. In 2023 we enhanced biodiversity and supported nature by planting 145,840 trees across our sites. Not only do trees provide food and shelter for wildlife, they also improve air quality and reduce the risk of flooding.
Swift bricks are installed across many of our sites, providing safe nesting spaces for this endangered species of bird. We also provide safe passage for hedgehogs by adding hedgehog highways throughout developments.
You can find out more about swift conservation here.
5. We recycle waste and manage drainage
As a 5-star homebuilder it’s out duty to construct our homes in a responsible and environmentally conscious way. Last year we recycled 98% of operational waste created during the construction of homes, and continue to work on initiatives to reduce waste generation.
We also aim to reduce water wastage both inside and outside our homes. All Persimmon homes are fitted with highly-efficient water appliances. We also use natural sustainable urban drainage systems on developments to control rainfall and water flow, and support biodiversity.
