Homes UK and Unlock Net Zero Live brought together more than 4,500 attendees and 150 exhibitors and sponsors to discuss and debate conversations and practical solutions to decarbonising the UK’s housing stock at scale and pace.
Our Sustainable Building Services (SBS) team was well represented over the two-day event and enjoyed engaging with delegates from various backgrounds, particularly those interested in our decarbonisation projects. We were also supported on our large, open-sided exhibition stand by colleagues from our sister businesses, Sustainable Energy Services, Permarock and Sustainable Smart Technologies, following their recent acquisition.
As UK decarbonisation efforts continue to take centre-stage, it is evident that the sector recognises the need for collaboration, delivery at scale and continued support from national government to ensure that there are improved living conditions for all, leaving no one behind.
Our three key takeaways:
1. Collaboration and engagement are essential
It would be remiss not to recognise the work needed to continue decarbonisation efforts in the UK. There is an urgent need for collaboration, accountability and a unified vision. While competition and commercial interests will always take place and remain a metric for organisations operating in this space, the focus must remain on building trusted partnerships that prioritise long-term community benefits over short-term gains, finding a reputable solution for all.
Transparent relationships between stakeholders in combatting fuel poverty and providing energy security relies on alliances forming between the public sector and private investors. Collaboration across government, training bodies, and the financial sector will prove vital in unlocking growth and improving energy efficiency.
2. Delivery at scale is needed
A collaborative effort really is the only way to achieve delivery at scale and strategic partnerships provide the best opportunity to successfully implement energy efficiency improvements across communities. By embracing a holistic approach to decarbonisation, with a joint endeavour between stakeholders, much more can be done to decarbonise and transform the UK’s housing stock.
The unfortunate reality is that without a shared priority, it will be impossible to achieve the necessary scale of change. Partnerships with private investment firms increasingly demonstrate the benefits of leveraging external expertise and capital. This approach marks a refreshing shift towards viewing decarbonisation as a large-scale, coordinated effort – not just isolated retrofit projects.
3. Continued investment and involvement from national government is welcomed
The stark reality as we approach 2025 is that decarbonisation projects need more funding. However, with continued support from the Labour government and the application period recently closing for the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund and Local Grants, it is clear that more housing providers will receive funding in the near future.
It was discussed with those at our stand that this third wave of funding aims to reduce the number of households in fuel poverty, improve the comfort and wellbeing of residents, deliver cost-effective carbon savings and support the green economy – all while developing the retrofit sector.
The delivery window for Wave 3 of the Warm Homes programme runs from the signing of the legal documentation to 30 September 2028. However, all grant funding for Wave 3 projects must have been transferred to and spent by the grant recipient by 31 March 2028.
The sector’s direction is undoubtedly encouraging. As investment and collaboration continues, it is essential that there is a renewed focus to empowering people in the places that they call home – improving their wellbeing and living conditions through enhanced energy efficiency.
How we can help
As a partner, we can manage all aspect of the customer journey as required, providing an end-to-end retrofit solution. If we can support you or your project delivery following the allocation and awards of funding, you can contact one of our decarbonisation experts here.
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