Trust outlines learnings from Europe in the decarbonisation of homes

Energy Saving Trust are calling for the government to consider best policy practice from Europe and make progress on retrofitting flats.

With multi-home apartment buildings accounting for over 20 per cent of the UK’s housing stock, the trust believes there is an absence of policies aimed at addressing their specific energy renovation requirements.

Countries across the EU face similar challenges to retrofitting flats, yet many have effective policies in place which they they the UK government can learn from to develop a comprehensive approach to retrofit policy.

To overcome the unique challenge of UK flat ownership structures and simplify the complex and technical renovation process, Energy Saving Trust’s new paper highlighted the need for access to expert, impartial advice.

Energy Saving Trust has published a new report identifying ways the government can overcome the challenges of upgrading flats in the net zero transition, as part of its expected Warm Homes Plan. 

The research reviewed policies and support programmes in place across Europe focused on energy renovation of multi-apartment buildings and provides recommendations to kickstart action in the UK.

Complex property law across England, Wales and Northern Ireland means access to expert, impartial advice to support owners to understand if and how they can gain more control of renovation decisions, will be a critical first step.

Key recommendations include a need in the long term for a combination of grants and low cost loans specifically designed for groups of flat owners when acting collectively. As part this, it’s important to ensure that low income and vulnerable individuals are supported with additional guidance.   

In Scotland, where ownership laws are more favourable, there’s a need for a clearer framework and technical advice to guide apartment owners in making collective decisions on whole-building renovation projects.

Specialised policies and support schemes aimed at flat owners will provide the stimulus needed to decarbonise this type of building. Five new case studies, including from France, Spain and the Netherlands highlight some of the key learnings that the UK can take on board when designing impactful policies to decarbonise these homes.

Stew Horne, head of policy at Energy Saving Trust said: “Renovating flats to lower their energy use and carbon emissions is a key part of the UK’s transition to net zero. The unique challenges that are faced in this process require targeted support programmes and policies for owners.

“It’s encouraging to see other European countries putting into place effective policies which are focused on renovating flats within their national renovation plans. We recommend the UK government considers these innovative polices and best practice to kickstart much needed action through their Warm Homes Plan.”