In 2008 South Dublin County Council approved the 180 hectare Clonburris Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) Planning Scheme which provides a framework for the future development of the Clonburris area. The planning requirements relating to the SDZ go above and beyond regional and national requirements in relation to energy standards and on-site renewable energy generation and will ensure that the 15,000 new homes are designed to exemplary sustainability standards. The following requirements relating to energy standards and renewable energy generation have been stipulated for detailed planning permission to be gained on site (SDCC, 2008):
- Renewable/ low emissions energy sources
- In situ renewable energy generation will cover a minimum of 30% of total space and water heating energy needs;
- Dedicated or directly funded off-site electricity generation from renewable sources to provide 30% of electricity needs (in combination with on-site generation described above);
- Integrated energy/heating systems will be provided at district, neighbourhood and/or block scale where feasible
- Primary energy reduction
- At least 80% of residential floorspace to employ a communal space heating and hot water supply system connected to a district heating network ;
- 60% carbon reduction from base case analysis of commercial buildings (i.e. standard Building Regulations)
- Internal lighting
- Minimum of 75% of fixed internal light fittings in new buildings will be dedicated energy efficient fittings
- External lighting
- All outdoor street lighting to be energy efficient or run on renewable energy sources
