Net zero heating and energy efficiency standards: research summary

Scenarios

Three scenarios of how potential new regulations could be introduced were discussed with the participants. Overall, there was positivity towards the scenarios, with all participants understanding that regulations must be in place to encourage change; however, there were concerns about the reality of implementing these regulations. There was a lot of anxiety around enforcing change and imposing laws and this was concerning for the participants, specifically given the current economic climate and the increasing cost of living. Most understood the importance of environmental improvements; however, the financial impact of these changes was of higher importance to the audience.

The most salient views on the scenarios included:

Any home changing ownership would be required to meet a minimum energy efficiency standard and have a zero-emissions heating system installed – the overall reaction to this scenario was negative, specifically for the new or soon-to-be buyers. According to the participants, this scenario would harm the housing market and people's ability to buy properties.

The regulations would set deadlines for property owners to carry out certain energy efficiency improvements (2033) and zero emissions heating system installations (2045) – this was seen as the fairest and most achievable scenario out of the three. It gives people time to prepare and know what they need to do. Nevertheless, all participants – not just those who are financially vulnerable – had concerns about their ability to pay for these changes.

The regulations would apply at the point of boiler breakdown – this was considered the least wasteful way to implement changes as it does not enforce the replacement of heating systems that still work well. Questions were raised about the practicality of making these changes in an emergency because participants were aware that more work needs to be done in a house before a heat pump is installed.