Energy Efficient Scotland: equality impact assessment

11. Age

11.1. Evidence gathered: Information on the age profile of Scotland's population is contained in the National Records of Scotland Population Estimates 2016 ^[5] which found that 25% of the population is over 60 years. The Scottish House Condition Survey 2016 shows that 71% of older households live in houses. Houses are statistically less energy efficient than flats and, as it is suggested that this group spend more prolonged time in the home, may incur larger fuel bills and would be more at risk of fuel poverty under the current definition. The Heat Policy Statement EQIA concludes that " evidence suggests that older people and families with young children spend more time at home and may therefore incur larger fuel bills. Measures are already in place to help address the needs of the older people, for instance people over the age of 60 may qualify for a grant such as winter fuel payments".

11.2. One in four families with children in Scotland has three or more children. It has been shown that families, especially those with young children, spend a great deal of time within the home. More energy efficient homes will contribute to the reduction of fuel bills and can contribute to improvement of health through making homes warmer and drier.

11.3. Effects/Impacts: Concerns have been expressed as to how the 'burden of cost' of energy efficiency upgrades fall on different groups of people within this characteristic. We consider that these groups will benefit in line with others living in Scotland, but are aware of the impact and implications on the 'burden of cost' to carry out improvements. As part of the consultations we will seek views from organisations representing people within vulnerable age groups. This consultation, in conjunction with the Routemap, will ask for views on proposals to help improve the energy efficiency of privately rented and owner occupiers as well as non-domestic buildings in Scotland, and the EESSH consultation will ask for views on proposals specifically related to social housing. These views will be used in conjunction with the Routemap to help develop the Programme. We are also developing easy to read sector specific guides to aid progress to more efficient buildings in Scotland.