Revised Heat in Buildings Bill will be brought forward

A revised Heat in Buildings Bill, which will set a new target for decarbonising heating systems by 2024, is to be brought forward by the acting minster for climate action, Dr Alasdair Allan.

The bill, to be considered in Scottish Parliament later this year, will include a target for decarbonising heating systems by 2045, which will incentives homeowners, landlords, and other building owners to prepare for this change, and provisions to boost heat network development by developing requirements for large, non-domestic premises, including powers to require public sector buildings to connect to district heating when possible.

The Bill will also have the power to set minimum energy standards for the owner, occupier, and non-domestic partners, and regulations will then be progressed under existing powers to introduce a minimum energy efficiency standard in the private rented sector.

Dr Allan said: “It is vital that we find the right balance both to reach net zero by 2045, and reduce fuel poverty.

“Many households, families and businesses are facing difficult circumstances right now and it is simply unaffordable for many building owners to make great changes in the near future — particularly for those in rural and island locations, whose needs and circumstances we must continue to consider carefully.

“Our plan to deliver a revised Bill responds to the legitimate reservations and concerns raised since our consultation completed, including the risk of exacerbating fuel poverty and burdening every individual householder with an overall onerous responsibility as we decarbonise.

“Instead of placing prohibitions on every homeowner, we will establish targets for government to reach. Rather than looking at action through the lens of decarbonising alone, we will also commit to doing everything within our power to reduce costs for people.”