Scotland’s government mulls over mandatory switch to heat pumps by 2033
Scottish Green plans to introduce net zero heating home standards have been criticized by Conservatives as the start of a ‘ten-year timebomb.’
Under the proposed plans, Scottish homeowners could face mandatory heat pump installation by 2033, with the government considering linking compliance to mortgages. From 2028, private landlords will also need to ensure their properties meet the minimum energy efficiency standards, and by 2045, the use of “polluting heating” will be prohibited.
The government is also considering introducing a requirement for existing homes to be retrofitted with heat pumps or similar systems by 2045. Additionally, it is exploring the possibility of making compliance with these laws a condition of mortgage and/or home and buildings insurance.
Additionally, the government has considered imposing additional charges on council tax and non-domestic rates for buildings that do not meet the net zero heating standards by the required dates.
Patrick Harvie, the zero carbon buildings minister, has extended the original 2028 date. He stressed the importance of clean heating systems in achieving climate goals but admitted that the proposed timeline may not be achievable by the set date.
Conservative MSP Miles Briggs called the plan “unrealistic” and “hugely expensive,” warning that it would create a ten-year timebomb for over half of Scotland’s homeowners.
In Oct., the UK net zero secretary defended the government’s decision to abandon deadlines for landlords to improve energy efficiency, citing concerns about raising household bills for renters and the financial burden it would place on property owners.
The Conservative government began back-pedaling on a range of net-zero policies after avoiding a by-election wipeout in July. This decision was attributed to the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone in London.
The government’s rationale for abandoning the policy was to avoid further economic pressure on renters and property owners.
PA Media and Lily Zhou contributed to this report.
