Environment Minister, John Griffiths, has launched a consultation on tougher building regulations, designed to improve the energy efficiency of new homes in Wales.
The proposed regulations would either see a 40% reduction on 2010 levels of carbon dioxide emissions from new homes from January 2015, or a 25% reduction from 2014.
"We want to improve the energy performance of buildings in Wales." said Mr Griffiths. "Raising standards through Building Regulations will help us move towards zero carbon new buildings helping to support our commitment to reduce emissions in the built environment."
New build homes in the UK are considerably more energy efficient compared to older style properties, thanks to the fact that housebuilders are building new homes to at least Code Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.
Because new homes feature energy efficiency measures such as high levels of insulation, low-voltage lighting, A-rated appliances, renewable energy technology, they are generally more environmentally friendly and cost-effective to run and maintain.
Those living in new homes enjoy annual home savings of around 55% on gas and electricity spending - that's an average of over £1,300 in today's market, according to the NHBC Foundation and Zero Carbon Hub.
There is a long way to go, and the mechanism for creating green-friendlier homes will undoubtedly evolve, but there is no question that the age of sustainable property investment has begun.
