Plans have been announced by the housing and planning minister John Healey, which aim to allow communities to play a role in addressing climate change.
The government's target of sourcing 15 per cent of the country's energy from renewable sources by 2020 could be helped by the new proposals, which will affect the way new houses are constructed and how people approach greener living.
Mr Healey said that the overhauled planning policies would act as a "new green planning rulebook".
"We need greener, renewable energy if we are to meet our ambitious low carbon targets. We also know that the ways and means for people to access this energy needs to be quicker and easier," he commented.
Householders may find that by making some adjustments, such as installing loft and wall insulation or fitting solar panels to a rooftop, they can help reduce the environmental impact of their home.
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