People across Northern Ireland have been invited to have a say on the proposed increased energy efficiency standards for new buildings.

Finance Minister Conor Murphy launched a consultation on the proposal during a visit to a 'passive' house in Crawfordsburn to see first-hand how energy efficient measures can help improve energy performance.

Speaking about the importance of the consultation, Minister Murphy said: "Improving the energy performance of buildings is vital in tackling climate change.

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"The new standards my Department is proposing are designed to ensure new buildings are greener, with lower emissions helping to protect the environment. Better energy efficiency measures will also help minimise energy bills for hard working families and businesses. 

"I would encourage everyone to have their say on this important consultation before it closes on 19 December."

These proposals form part of the Department of Finance's first step in an ambitious programme of improvements over the coming years, which will include further uplifts to energy efficiency requirements, as well as steps to address standards on ventilation and overheating.

The consultation will run until 19 December 2021, find out more information here.