SUSTAINABLE RETROFIT FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
THE UNDENIABLE BENEFITS O
With around 80% of the buildings that will already exist in 2050 having already been built, retrofitting our housing stock is essential. While there are challenges,
retrofitting brings a wide variety of benefits. So what are the options? Russell Smith*, founder and managing director of Ecofurb, a service dedicated to providing impartial, personalised advice on home energy efficiency retrofits, comments
T
he UK has committed to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050. Residential buildings,
however, contribute significantly to the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions – accounting for around 17% of the total. In addition to this, buildings in the UK are among the least energy-efficient in Europe. Approximately 80% of the buildings that will exist
in 2050 have already been built, which is why retrofitting our existing housing stock is essential to meet these targets. We will not achieve Net Zero without decarbonising our entire housing stock.
THE CHALLENGES OF RETROFITTING Perception & misconceptions One of the biggest barriers to retrofitting is public perception. While retrofitting offers undeniable benefits for homeowners in terms of energy savings, increased comfort and even higher property value, there is a significant amount of scepticism and distrust, often fuelled by negative media coverage. Many homeowners are concerned about the expense of retrofitting. In fact according to our recent research into home retrofit trends, 52% say upfront cost is a barrier to retrofit. However, retrofitting doesn’t have to be expensive. Many homes don’t need to spend thousands of pounds on work to start seeing real benefits. Small, targeted upgrades, like loft insulation, draught-proofing or re-caulking doors and windows, or installing a smart thermostat, can reduce energy bills and improve home comfort. These measures can also be tailored to suit
different budgets and home types. Moreover, the cheapest moment to carry out retrofit work is alongside other works, such as a new kitchen or an extension. A good ‘whole house’ plan gives the confidence to turn every job into a retrofit step. Plus, homeowners can actually see long- term savings from their initial upfront cost.
Variety in UK housing stock UK homes vary widely in age, construction materials, design and structure. This means there isn’t a one-size-fits-all retrofit solution, but it does mean homeowners can access the retrofit options that best suit their needs – as well as their budget. With the right approach, every home can be made more energy efficient.
Disruption to Daily Life Retrofitting often involves construction work and this can be disruptive, so homeowners may be concerned about the inconvenience of work on their house. But, careful planning, working with experienced professionals, and scheduling work at convenient times, can help to minimise disruption.
28
Insulation is another retrofit solution which is used to reduce heat loss. There are several areas in the home where you can improve insulation, including internal, external, or cavity walls, as well as under floors or in the loft
And, it’s also worth bearing in mind the short-term disruption versus the long-term gains.
THE OPPORTUNITIES RETROFIT BRINGS While there are challenges that need to be overcome, retrofitting undoubtedly brings significant environmental and financial benefits.
Lower Energy Bills Household energy bills continue to climb, thanks to a perfect concoction of a volatile market and disruptions to global energy supply. In January, Ofgem’s energy price cap rose by 1.2% and is going to rise again in April. Retrofitting is one of the most effective ways to combat rising energy costs. It was, in fact, recognised by 62% of homeowners in our latest survey. Our research has also demonstrated that
93% of UK homes could see a reduction in their energy bills with a well-installed heat pump - an average annual saving of £278.
Improved comfort Retrofitting a home can enhance its comfort too. By improving insulation, installing good-quality double or triple glazing, and incorporating an efficient heating system, homes can stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing the need for constant temperature adjustments.
ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY SOLUTIONS - Spring 2025
Increased property value Energy-efficient homes are set to become the new must-have in the UK property market. The property market is already rewarding energy efficiency, with some lenders offering preferential mortgage rates for buyers of energy-efficient homes and EPC ratings being used as a negotiating tool. Research by our finance partner, Knight Frank Finance, suggests that improving a home’s EPC rating from F/G to C could increase its value by up to 20%.
WHAT ARE THE RETROFIT OPTIONS FOR HOMEOWNERS? There are many retrofit options, which range from ways to reduce the need for energy, to creating energy from other sources. This can include heat pumps which either extract heat from the outside air (air source) or from the ground (ground source). Both options use electricity to run, but their heat output can be around four times the electricity input, making them a highly efficient solution. The main benefits of installing a heat pump are that they are between 300-400% efficient and will save money for most homes, particularly when taking into account any changes in electricity prices versus gas prices. They will also significantly reduce carbon emissions, which can be brought to near- zero if the electricity is from a renewable source.
www.essmag.co.uk
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40
