What is an energy efficient home?

Posted 02/06/2026/5 minute read


An energy efficient home is a property built with the intention of cutting energy costs but reducing your carbon footprint too.  Thanks to stringent building regulations, you can expect to save significantly more on your energy bills when you purchase a new build property.

What are the benefits of energy saving homes?

Everything is designed to do more with less. With a range of sustainable features and energy-efficient technologies included as standard, our new build homes are designed for everyday living, to be better for the planet, for you and your bank balance! 

EPC Rating

EPC stands for ‘energy performance certificate’. It’s a stamp given to a home after it’s been evaluated for energy efficiency, and it’s intended as a tool for the future homeowner to be able to estimate their bills. EPC ratings range from G, the least efficient, to A, the most efficient. 

The average EPC rating in the UK is band D - right in the middle of the chart. For a new build, the average EPC rating is around the B mark.

Indeed, according to the Office for National Statistics, the age of a property directly affects the likelihood of having a good EPC rating, with homes built since 2012 being nearly 200x more likely to fall into a high band than older houses. 

Lower energy bills

Energy efficient homes use less energy from the grid, meaning your bills for heating and electricity will be less costly compared to a home with a low EPC rating.  According to HBF data (January 2026) a brand-new home could be up to 21% more energy-efficient than an older home, meaning you could save up to £420 per year on your running costs† .

Lower rate of heat loss

High performance materials help minimise heat loss, with good insulation being a vital part of an energy efficient home. With a lower rate of heat loss, you’ll also benefit from maintaining temperatures over a longer period of time, preventing uncomfortable fluctuations. This means that your home will be more likely to retain its warmth during the winter and remain cool during the summer.

Water saving features

Our new homes are designed to use less water without compromising function.  Highly efficient kitchen and bathroom fittings used as standard in our homes could help you cut your water usage and  bills on average by 27%, compared to those living in older homes, based on HBF data (October 2024)^^. So you could save water, lower your bills, and still enjoy a comfortable bath or shower.

Healthier Air 

Good controlled ventilation throughout your home through trickle units, extractor fans or mechanical systems result in better indoor air quality throughout your property.  High-efficiency ventilation, often with heat recovery provide healthier air quality, acoustic protection and a comfortable environment.

Energy efficient lighting

We only ever install energy efficient bulbs in our homes, such as LEDs both inside and outside your home, which use 80% less electricity and last up to 3 times longer, to help you save money on your energy bills and maintenance costs while keeping your rooms well lit.

Lower carbon emissions

Energy-efficient new homes also play an important role in reducing carbon emissions. Homes with EPC A or B ratings can cut annual carbon emissions by up to 74%, reducing emissions by around 1,080kg compared with the least efficient properties. This supports the UK’s wider net zero ambitions while helping homeowners enjoy a more sustainable way of living.

Modern appliances 

We specify energy-saving appliances where we can, chosen for their energy efficiency rating and low water usage. A washing machine with an AA+ efficiency rating can use up to 70% less energy than a G rated machine.

Energy efficiency is just one of the many reasons why buying new is best. Ones of the biggest advantages of new build homes is the long-term cost savings associated with using and wasting less energy. Given the ongoing energy crisis and rising fuel costs, new build homes are becoming a practical and future-proof choice.


 

Find your dream new home

Higgins Homes offer modern, spacious homes, premium finishes and energy-efficient features. Our renowned quality and craftsmanship mean you’ll enjoy lasting value and comfort for years to come.