INDUSTRY NEWS
NON-DOMESTIC BUILDINGS RISK BEING OVERLOOKED DESPITE £40BN+ DECARBONISATION DRIVE
C
ommercial and public buildings risk being left behind in the UK’s transition to net zero despite more than £40bn of funding, investment and policy support being directed towards building decarbonisation,
according to the latest Policy Pulse report from the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA). The new report highlights a wave of fresh funding commitments, regulatory
reforms and performance standards designed to improve building effi ciency and reduce carbon emissions. However, while signifi cant support is being directed towards domestic retrofi t and wider decarbonisation initiatives, BCIA is calling for greater clarity around the future policy framework for non- domestic buildings. Across the policy developments examined in the report, a consistent theme
emerges -greater emphasis on building performance, operational outcomes, electrifi cation and data-driven decision making. New regulations in Wales, the introduction of the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and the forthcoming Future Buildings Standard all strengthen the role of intelligent building controls in delivering compliant, high-performing buildings. The report also highlights a growing shift towards performance-led funding models, creating opportunities for technologies capable of demonstrating measurable energy savings and ROI. However, despite the positive direction of travel, BCIA says a critical policy
gap remains for non-domestic buildings. While the Warm Homes Plan sets out a long-term strategy for domestic
decarbonisation backed by £15bn investment, no equivalent framework has yet been established for non-domestic buildings, despite their substantial contribution to UK energy use and emissions. The association is urging policymakers to ensure commercial and public buildings are fully integrated into future decarbonisation strategies and funding mechanisms. Jen Vickers, President of the Building Controls Industry Association, said: ‘The scale of investment and policy activity currently being directed towards decarbonisation demonstrates just how important buildings have become in the UK’s net zero strategy. ‘Across funding, regulation and performance standards, we are seeing a clear shift towards smarter, more effi cient buildings that can demonstrate measurable outcomes. This creates signifi cant opportunities for building controls, which play a critical role in reducing energy consumption, improving operational performance and supporting carbon reduction. “If the UK is to achieve its decarbonisation ambitions, future policy
frameworks must fully recognise the role of non-domestic buildings and the technologies, such as building controls, that can help unlock substantial energy and carbon savings.” The report highlights a strong growth outlook for the building controls sector
in 2026, with regulation, rising energy costs and evolving funding models all expected to drive increased adoption. As policymakers place greater emphasis on building performance and operational outcomes, controls are becoming embedded as a core requirement. At the same time, organisations are increasingly seeking technologies that
can deliver measurable savings and a clear return on investment, positioning building controls as a key enabler of both commercial performance and net zero delivery. Rather than a specialist solution, controls are rapidly becoming essential infrastructure within the built environment.
SFL qp HVR
May26.indd 1
MBE FOR MANSFIELD POLLARD CHIEF
L
ou Ellis-Frankland, chief executive of Bradford- based manufacturer Mansfi eld Pollard, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday
Honours for Services to the Manufacturing Sector and to Employee Wellbeing. The honour recognises a career of more than 25 years in manufacturing and a leadership approach that has combined commercial ambition with a deep commitment to people, culture and community. Since taking ownership of Mansfi eld Pollard through a management buyout in February 2020, Lou has led the transformation of the Yorkshire business through a period of challenge and growth, helping to shape a bold and ambitious new chapter for the company. Under Lou’s leadership, Mansfi eld Pollard has expanded its capabilities,
invested heavily in its Bradford manufacturing base and created an environment where employee wellbeing is treated as a core part of business performance, helping drive annual turnover to £28m. Her belief in open leadership, long- term investment and giving people the support to thrive has helped shape both the culture of the company and its wider reputation in British manufacturing. Mansfi eld Pollard has also maintained carbon neutral status for fi ve consecutive years, refl ecting a long-term commitment to responsible growth. Lou said: “Receiving this recognition is something I never expected, and I feel
incredibly honoured and humbled. While it may be given in my name, it refl ects a journey that has only ever been possible because of the support, encouragement, loyalty and belief of so many people around me.”
23/4/26 16:53
6 July 2026
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