Following the decision to pause the Heat in Buildings Bill in March 2025, Acting Minister for Climate Action Alasdair Allan has confirmed that the Scottish Government will bring forward a new, revised Bill for consideration this year. Changes to the Bill include:
- Targets: The new Bill will include a target for decarbonising heating systems in Scotland by 2045, rather than a prohibition against the use of polluting systems.
- Standards: It will also give the Scottish Government new powers to set minimum energy efficiency standards, for domestic and non-domestic properties alike.
- Landlords: Minimum energy efficiency standards for privately rented properties will not be included in the Bill, but will be taken forward using the Scottish Government’s existing powers.
Under One Roof welcomes the move to quickly re-introduce the now much-delayed Bill, which aims to tackle energy inefficiency in the housing sector and address the climate emergency.
However, we are concerned that a target-based approach might not be sufficient to achieve the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.
Targets, unfortunately, can be and often are missed. These targets must be supported by a strong implementation plan in order for the Scottish Government to meet the deadlines.
It is also essential that the Bill contain measures to tackle fuel poverty, and ensure that the cost of decarbonisation is not paid by those who would struggle to afford it.
This is a concern Under One Roof expressed in the consultation for the original Heat in Buildings Bill, and it remains a concern: that the cost of new heating systems and energy efficiency could have significant impact on flat owners already in fuel poverty, and tip other owners over into fuel poverty.
The new approach by Government must make decarbonisation achievable and affordable for all through grants and loans.
