Conservatories are to be subject to new government legislation to tackle carbon emissions.

Part L of the Buildings Regulations will be used by the government to help meet carbon emission reduction targets.

By 2010, the regulation is expected to be applied to conservatories and outbuildings, meaning that homeowners will need to ensure such extensions meet energy efficiency levels.

Stephen Giles, managing director of Conservatory Quote Online, said that this could increase the price homeowners pay for extensions.

Higher carbon reduction targets would apply to conservatories and restrictions are expected on electrical heating systems.

"Home owners will be expected to pay thousands of pounds extra for their conservatories which will impact heavily on the conservatory supply and installation industry," Mr Giles said.

Part L regulations set energy performance requirements for all proposed buildings and structures and are designed to help conserve energy and power.