Why rolling back insulation standards could hurt the economy in the long term

This is a transcript from Will’s Word on Thursday, 18th of July.

Now it’s time for Will’s Word…

It's baffling. Minister Chris Penk is even open to relaxing rules that make new homes cheaper to heat. Last year, these rules were finally updated after 10 years of neglect. They were a big win for saving energy and money.

Here's why they matter: experts said our old rules were way behind other countries like Australia and the UK.

The new standards got a huge thumbs-up from the public and builders because they cut heating bills by 40 per cent in new homes. That's a big deal for our wallets and the planet.

But Minister Penk isn't convinced. He's listening to complaints from builders in places like Tauranga, who say these changes add $40,000 to $50,000 to a new home and cause overheating.

Sure, meeting higher standards might cost a bit more upfront—up to 2.8 per cent. But think about the savings over time.

Plus, good insulation doesn't just keep homes warm; it keeps them cool in summer too.

By rolling back these standards, Minister Penk is putting short-term money worries ahead of long-term benefits for all of us.

It's disappointing. We need homes that are cheap to run and good for the environment.

The government was on the right track with the upgrades last year. Undoing that progress now doesn't make sense.

…. That’s Will’s Word…