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New homes to boost progress to net zero
The UK Government’s detailed proposals for the 2025 Future Homes and Buildings Standards will amend existing legislation to set new minimum energy efficiency requirements for buildings in England. Most changes will apply to new homes and non-domestic buildings and should ensure no further work will be needed for new buildings to produce zero carbon emissions as the electricity grid decarbonises.
Barriers to future-proofing the UK's historic buildings
There are approximately 350,000 listed homes in England, and approximately 600,000 commercial properties dating from before 1919. The impact of the cost-of-living challenges means fewer households and businesses can afford the required work to install energy efficiency upgrades. This, in combination with increased costs for historic building retrofit skills and materials, makes comprehensive retrofit action unobtainable for many property owners.
Warning against disreputable spray foam installers
Homeowners are surrounded by messages about the urgency of taking green measures in their properties, and insulation should be a high priority. However, mortgage lenders are increasingly taking a zero-tolerance approach to spray foam insulation and are declining applications.
Energy efficiency isn't financially viable
Reducing wasted energy is one of the ways individuals can permanently reduce energy bills, contribute to net zero targets, and reduce the UK’s dependence on imported gas. However, two-thirds of households did nothing to improve the energy efficiency of their homes in 2023 because of prohibitive upfront costs.