Climate Change on the Doorstep There are currently 27.2 million households in the UK and the UK Government is committed to build around 1.5 million new homes by 2022. The quality of these existing and new homes and how they are financed not only has a critical role in safeguarding people’s health and wellbeing, but in addressing climate change. In 2019, the government published the Green Finance Strategy, which promoted the adoption of green finance products and services, and pledged to unlock green mortgages for new build homes. Therefore, it is no surprise that Lenders have begun to create products that both incentivise and reward existing and prospective homeowners for adopting the green agenda. Heating and hot water for UK homes make up 25% of total energy use and 15% of our greenhouse gas emissions. A further 4% of greenhouse gas emissions are the result of electricity used in the home for appliances and lighting. Although nearly all homes are naturally ventilated, cooling energy demand is increasing and projected to increase further with rising temperatures. The challenge is clear in terms of improving housing, in England alone, 4.7 million dwellings (20%) failed to meet the Decent Home Standard in 2016, although this had fallen
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Neil Hoare Commercial Director
