Why is decarbonisation important?
Decarbonisation is the reduction of carbon emissions brought about by human activity.
Across the globe we are seeing the negative effects of these carbon emissions through rising global temperatures, an increase in storms and draughts, and increasing levels of pollution.
Across the UK, heavy rain brought on by climate change caused by rising greenhouse gas emissions is affecting crops, causing this year to be the UK’s second worst harvest on record. On the other end of the scale, record breaking heatwaves have led to significant infrastructure disruptions and an increase in heat-related deaths.
UK government is committed to reaching net zero carbon by 2050
In response to this growing issue, the UK government is committed to reaching net zero carbon by 2050, and as part of this, the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3 has a new emphasis on low carbon heating. This scheme aims to support social housing transition away from fossil fuels, and bring these homes up to an EPC rating of C or better.
As weather gets colder, it’s more important than ever that social homes are rated EPC or above, as domestic use of fossil fuels contributes 21% of all of England’s carbon emissions, with social housing contributing roughly 10% of this according to the NHF. In addition, residents in social housing may not be able to afford the rapidly rising costs of energy, as the NHF suggests almost 20% of residents live in fuel poverty. Retrofitted solar PV and ASHPs can not only reduce our country’s reliance on carbon, but also provide warmer, and more affordable homes for families that desperately need them.
Social housing retrofit projects
As one of the UK’s leading decarbonisation specialists, we’ve already delivered social housing retrofit projects on a large scale and are perfectly poised to action further SHDF projects from the design & installation to the operations & maintenance. To find out more about what projects we have been working on, take a look at our case studies.
Get in touch with us to find out how we can help you achieve a carbon free future.