Ambitious targets outlined under Part L of the Welsh Building Regulations have been welcomed by a leading commercial and industrial heating manufacturer.
Business Development Director at Bosch Commercial and Industrial Heating, Geoff Hobbs, believes the proposed 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2010 Part L requirements challenges consultants in the non-domestic sector to think smarter when it comes to assessing heating and hot water technologies.

He said: 'By proposing a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, the Welsh Government has effectively laid down the gauntlet for the non-domestic sector to consider a broader range of low-carbon technologies when specifying for new buildings.

'When it comes to the heating and hot water provision of a non-domestic building, it is impossible to take a 'one system fits all' approach, and as a result of the new targets, emerging renewable technologies will need to be accommodated within a heating and hot water system to minimise reliance on fossil fuels.'

In addition, Mr Hobbs believes that the challenging targets could also stimulate growth in the demand for Combined Heat and Power (CHP) modules, which are now amongst the most attractive technologies available from a financial incentives standpoint.

He continued: 'With good quality CHP already exempt from the Climate Change Levy (CCL), covered by the Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECA) scheme, and set to be exempt from carbon floor price from next April, the technology could hold the key to meeting emissions targets and significantly reducing payback periods.

'The decision to separate the Welsh regulations from those enforced in England is a bold move, but friendly competition between the two nations when it comes to energy efficiency targets could completely transform the UK's building stock for the better.'