New-build homeowners save £1,685 a year on energy bills

New data reveals the huge energy savings found with new-build homes, cutting bills by 57% or £1,685 a year on average.

Research from the Home Builders Federation released in May 2024 has shown the significant savings offered by new-build homes compared to older properties.

The average new-build energy bill is 57% cheaper than for older properties, equating to savings of £1,685 a year for those who live in a new-build home.

Homes built to new sustainability regulations from June 2023 onwards are proving to be the most energy efficient options on the market.

The research found that these newest builds save homeowners more than £2,000 on annual energy bills, which rises to £2,575 for houses specifically.

85% of new-build homes achieve an A or B EPC rating

85% of new-build homes achieve an A or B Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating compared to less than 5% of older properties.

An EPC rating is an assessment of how much energy your home uses per square metre and how much carbon dioxide it produces.

It takes into account things like the roof, walls, insulation, windows, heating system, lighting and renewable energy solutions. A is the top mark, showing a home has best-in-class energy efficiency.

What makes new-build homes more energy efficient?

New-build homes have energy efficiency built in from the very start of their construction. Everything from the materials to the building techniques are designed to keep heat in and use less energy.

Cavity wall insulation means the gaps between the inner and outer walls of a new-build home are filled with things like mineral wool, polystyrene beads or polyurethane foam. This helps store heat by bouncing it back into the home, rather than letting it escape through draughts.

High-efficiency heating systems also use less energy to generate more heat, while double or triple glazing, low energy lighting and dual flushes all use less energy than conventional equivalents.

New builds also come with brand new A+ appliances, which dramatically reduce the amount of energy used by your dishwasher, washing machine and other white goods.

Key takeaways

• 85% of new-build homes achieve an A or B Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating compared to less than 5% of older properties.
• New-build homes are more energy efficient because these considerations are built in from the very start of their construction.
• New-build homes are fitted with cavity wall insulation, double or triple glazing, and brand new A+ appliances which all contribute to a more energy-efficient property.