One in four homes is ‘hard to decarbonize’ – without help their inhabitants could get stuck in fuel poverty

This winter, millions of individuals must deal with skyrocketing energy costs. However, our data indicate that at least 20% of UK houses will continue to use a lot of energy. We’ve discovered that current energy-saving solutions, such as bettering insulation and adding air source heat pumps, are unable to assist these dwellings to rise beyond the absolute lowest energy performance standards.

The term “hard to decarbonize dwellings” refers to a broad category of unusual residential structures, such as high-rise apartment complexes, houses with limited space, or residences with historical significance. Around the world, one in four homes is thought to be difficult to decarbonize, and they are responsible for 25% of all emissions from the direct residential sector.

However, worldwide, dwellings rank as the fourth largest source of carbon emissions. The UK’s ability to meet its carbon reduction targets will be hampered by failing to identify inexpensive measures to enhance the energy performance of the least efficient homes, keeping vulnerable households in fuel poverty.

residences that use too much energy

Building energy efficiency in the UK is indicated by energy performance certifications. Buildings are given an energy rating based on their insulation, heating systems, and building materials. Ratings range from A to G, with A being the most effective and reasonably priced to operate.

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Homes with little exterior space, for instance, cannot accommodate the installation of air-source heat pumps. Although the heat pump itself is modest, it must be placed outside where air can circulate freely.

Residential high-rise structures can also be difficult and expensive to insulate.

Expensive scaffolding is needed for multi-story building renovations. Split incentives may occur if the landlord is compelled to make adjustments that exclusively benefit the renter by lowering utility costs. Additionally, the objectives of various stakeholders frequently conflict with one another. For example, leaseholders are more likely to prioritize avoiding improvement fees, whilst tenants are more likely to prioritize energy bill savings.

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Those living in homes that are difficult to decarbonize will be subject to greater energy costs in the absence of suitable decarbonization methods. An F-rated property is expected to have yearly fuel expenses that are at least £500 greater than those of a D-rated building.

suffering from fuel poverty

The housing stock that is challenging to decarbonize is disproportionately made up of vulnerable households, such as those with low incomes and physical and mental health problems. These residents’ predicament will be made worse by expensive energy bills and chilly homes.

The housing stock that is challenging to decarbonize is disproportionately made up of vulnerable households, such as those with low incomes and physical and mental health problems. These residents’ predicament will be made worse by expensive energy bills and chilly homes.

These people might not be able to afford to keep their homes warm and cozy over the winter. The likelihood of experiencing poor physical and mental health rises as a result of this so-called fuel poverty. In 2020, a cold home will be to blame for 8,500 fatalities in the UK, according to the national fuel poverty charity NEA.

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Residents of difficult-to-decarbonize homes will also be at risk of “asset stranding” if solutions are not found. In this situation, homes that are difficult to decarbonize prematurely become outdated and unattractive to buyers because they are cold and expensive to operate.

achieving a future with no carbon

The problem of difficult-to-decarbonize dwellings is complicated. Even though it is commonly acknowledged that by 2050 all homes must be energy efficient, nothing is being done to assist those who live in difficult-to-decarbonize dwellings.

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In Finland, 192 cases of user invention or modification to heat pumps or wood pellet-burning systems were documented between 2005 and 2012. The improvements to the heating systems’ efficiency, appropriateness, or cost included revamping the controls or adding protective housing for exterior units. By adopting these renewable technologies to fit the differences in their homes, these consumers hastened their growth.

By adopting an occupant-led strategy, the UK may be able to find solutions that will help it fulfill its climate goals and better protect its most vulnerable citizens.