SCC Network - Scottish Government Consultation on Delivering net zero for Scotland’s buildings – Heat in Buildings Bill

13 Feb 2024

In relation to The Climate Change (Emissions Reductions Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019, Scotland is required to reach net zero by 2045, as well as to achieve a 75% reduction in emissions by 2030 and a 90% reduction in emissions by 2040. The Scottish Government states that the third largest cause of greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland are produced by the way we heat our homes, workplaces and other buildings, through “direct emissions heating systems” (such as gas and oil boilers). 

To meet their legal obligations, the Scottish Government proposes to introduce legislation which will require all homeowners and businesses to transition to zero emissions heating systems by 2045. The prohibition on polluting heating systems will only apply to the main heating system of a property. 

Specifically, the consultation proposes that new laws will be established to confirm that the Scottish Government will: 

• Reconfirm that the use of polluting heating systems will be prohibited after 2045
• As a pathway to 2045, require those purchasing a home or business premises to end their use of polluting heating systems within a fixed period following completion of the sale
• Introduce a new law that will require homeowners to make sure that their homes meet a reasonable minimum energy efficiency standard by 2033 (will NOT apply to non-domestic buildings)
• Private landlords will be required to meet the minimum energy efficiency standard by 2028 

The Scottish Government estimate that around 49% of non-domestic buildings are using polluting heating systems at present. This will clearly have a significant impact on the majority of small businesses in Scotland if introduced.

Our response will focus on how the consultation proposes to support businesses to make the regulatory changes and whether the needs of business have been properly considered, alongside any other additional issues shared by the Chamber Network. 

Scottish Chambers of Commerce is therefore keen to hear views from Chamber members on these proposals to feed into our consultation response. 

Click on links to download the consultation document and a sample questionnaire. 

Individual responses to the consultation are also encouraged. 

The deadline to submit views is 8 March 2024. 

For further information, contact: Colin Campbell, Communications & Research Executive, Scottish Chambers of Commerce, Mobile: 07921 041 344, Email: CCampbell@scottishchambers.org.uk