The Builders Merchants Federation has broadly welcomed the release of the Warm Homes Plan but argues that the Government has made a significant error by neglecting the “fabric first” approach and omitting the requirement for sufficient insulation, which could reduce the efficiency of heat pumps.
Through the Warm Homes Plan, the Government has promised nearly £15bn during this parliament to upgrade up to 5 million homes. The proposals aim to lower energy bills and lift as many as a million families out of fuel poverty by 2030.
The plan confirms £5bn has been allocated for upgrades such as solar panels and heat pumps targeted at low-income households; £2bn for low-cost loans available to those who can afford them; and £2.7bn for the boiler upgrade scheme, allowing people to exchange their gas boiler for a heat pump at a cost of £7,500. Other measures include “green mortgages”, offering lower interest rates for homes equipped with energy-efficient systems.
However, with its focus almost entirely on installing renewables, there is no requirement for households to upgrade their insulation to a level commensurate with the efficient operation of a new heat pump. The BMF believes this could be a costly mistake.
“It seems illogical that a £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant can be claimed without measures to properly insulate homes first. We will call on the Government to ensure insulation is given due importance in the plan.”
John Newcomb, CEO of the BMF said: “Our members manufacture and supply all the products and systems in the Warm Homes Plan, making this a timely announcement as many are reviewing their trading forecasts for the next two to three years and considering investment decisions and staffing levels.
“However, it seems illogical that a £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant can be claimed without measures to properly insulate homes first. We will call on the Government to ensure insulation is given due importance in the plan.”
The BMF also emphasised the need for many more qualified and competent installers, ranging from those trained in low and zero-carbon systems to those installing traditional products such as insulation.
John added: “It is vital that contractors undertaking any upgrade under the Warm Homes Plan are correctly trained, supervised and supported by robust checks and balances so everyone can have confidence that they are investing in quality, professional installations that achieve the government’s aim to improve energy efficiency and cut household bills.”
For more on the Government’s Warm Home Plan, click here to download the document here.
