A panel of building and design experts from across Scotland, Norway, Denmark and Austria has been established to make recommendations for improving the energy-efficiency of houses in Scotland

Scottish parliament climate change minister Stewart Stevenson has stated that he wants to see all new-build houses in Scotland meeting the same regulations in place in Scandinavia, stating that such a move would significantly reduce bills and energy use.

Mr Stevenson added: "Events around the world this summer have further raised our awareness of the challenge of climate change."

"We are intent on developing a range of strategies to tackle climate change, including measures that will increase the energy efficiency of buildings and encourage more local energy production," he said.

The panel is due to hold its first meeting in Edinburgh in September when initial recommendations will be made.

The European Housing Review 2007 found that countries in Scandinavia saw largest house price rises in 2006.