This resource, published by the London Energy Transformation Initiative (LETI), highlights the significant potential for retrofitting existing homes in the UK to meet climate targets. The guide emphasizes that existing homes are responsible for a substantial portion of carbon emissions, with around 69% of operational emissions from buildings originating from domestic energy use, equating to 18% of the UK’s annual total emissions.
🌍The guide outlines the urgent need for retrofitting to address the climate emergency, emphasizing that existing housing stock is the primary contributor to carbon emissions in the residential sector. It stresses that without a comprehensive retrofit strategy, achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 will be challenging.
💡Key targets proposed by LETI suggest that a deep retrofit could reduce energy consumption by up to 70%. The guide indicates that a typical existing home has an average Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of 214 kWh/m²/year, while new builds should aim for a target of 35 kWh/m²/year to align with future regulations.
🏠The document discusses various retrofit strategies, including enhancing fabric efficiency and transitioning to low carbon heating technologies such as heat pumps. A significant focus is placed on eliminating fossil fuel heating systems to reduce overall carbon emissions. The guide advocates for a holistic approach to retrofitting, considering occupant health and building durability.
💰Financial implications are also addressed, highlighting that effective retrofitting will not only lower energy bills but also stimulate job creation in the construction sector. It is estimated that a national retrofit programme could create 500,000 new jobs by 2030, contributing to a £309 billion boost to the UK economy.
📊The LETI guide includes case studies demonstrating successful retrofits across various types of dwellings. For instance, it showcases a semi-detached Victorian home that achieved a significant reduction in space heating demand from 188 kWh/m²/year to 23 kWh/m²/year through comprehensive insulation and the installation of low-carbon heating systems.
🔍The resource emphasizes the importance of a well-structured Retrofit Plan, which should outline key building information, risks, and opportunities for improvement. This plan should be adaptable and should also include a strategy for monitoring energy performance post-retrofit.
👥LETI encourages collaboration among stakeholders, including local authorities, architects, and contractors, to develop practical policies and solutions tailored to the specific needs of different communities. The guide calls for a shift in mindset towards viewing retrofitting as essential to achieving a sustainable future for housing in the UK.
🌱In conclusion, the LETI resource serves as an important framework for understanding how existing homes can be retrofitted to meet UK climate targets. By focusing on energy efficiency, occupant health, and economic benefits, the guide aims to facilitate a comprehensive approach to retrofitting that can be applied across Europe, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.
